State Highlights

While there has been positive state support demonstrating the value of National Board Certification as a respected education reform initiative, several key states with National Board programs were tested by the economy during this past year’s state legislative sessions.  Some of these programs are in flux, but many states and districts are using innovative ways to deal with education budget challenges to preserve their National Board Certification programs.

• In Alaska, legislation SB83 has been introduced to provide a $2,500 conditional loan for the application process, as well as an annual $1,000 stipend for NBCTs.  An additional $500 would be paid to NBCTs who work in high-poverty schools.
• In California, the California Commission on Teacher Credentialling is proposing legislation to allow NBCTs to add a second credential to their existing California credentials, based on National Board certificate areas.
• for 2009 - 2011, Colorado used stimulus money to fund scholarships for first-time candidates and stipends for NBCTs.
• Georgia legislators are considering a resolution to restore the 10% pay increase for NBCTs that was removed in 2010.  The House passed the resolution by a vote of 163-2. 
• In Idaho, NBCT status is one way of qualifying for a Leadership Award.  The salary stipend for NBCTs has also been reinstated, subject to local selection processes and the state funding formula.
• In Illinois, legislators are focusing on candidate fee support and bonuses for NBCTs who mentor candidates, instead of NBCT stipends.

• Indiana legislators are now considering  an amendment to HB1 that provides money for fee support, an annual stipend of $1000, and compensation for NBCTs who mentor others.

• In Maryland, the Governor's proposed budget includes fee support for approximately 1,000 candidates and a salary incentive of $1,000.

• In Mississippi, Governor Haley Barbour signed legislation that fully funds a $6,000 stipend for NBCTs.
• In Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Commission for Teacher Preparation proposed HB1317 to lift the two-year mortarium on National Board programs early.  The legislation seeks funding for 200 candidates in 2011 and 400 candidates in 2012.
• Legislators in Oregon have introduced a bill to establish a National Board Certification Fund to encourage teachers and administrators to pursue advanced certification.
• In South Carolina, a proviso was introduced to protect the National Board stipend when local districts furlough teachers and reduce their pay.
• Tennessee has received Race to the Top funding and is working closely with NBPTS to assure their standards are integral to teacher evaluation.

Last updated: April 28, 2011