At a time when state and local governments are considering difficult budget decisions, studies examining the impact of NBCTs and policies investing in National Board Certification have been both timely and informative.  Note: These studies were not commissioned by NBPTS, and NBPTS is not responsible for nor endorsing the contents of these studies. 

Salary Incentives 

Study of the Incentive Program for Washington's National Board Certified Teachers

(June, 2010) In this study prepared for the Washington State Board of Education by the Center for the Study of Teaching and Policy from the University of Washington and the Center for Strengthening the Teaching Profession, researchers examine the impact of two statewide incentives for achieving National Board Certification and working in challenging schools.  Using surveys and secondary analyses of state databases, the workforce is examined both prior to and following recent changes in the incentive program. The study considers the nature of NBCT assignments, their distribution, retention and mobility patterns compared with other teachers statewide, and the views of teachers and principals regarding NB certification and the state's incentives. The study concludes with policy implications and options for future consideration. Download this study in pdf format.

Supporting High-Need Schools

Supporting and Staffing High Need Schools: Recommendations from Washington's NBCTs

(June, 2007) Over 200 Washington NBCTs assembled to address the vexing problem of recruiting and retaining accomplished teachers for high-needs schools. 12 recommendations which would have the greatest impact on supporting and staffing high-needs schools have been shared.  Read this special report prepared by the National Education Association and Center for Teaching Quality.

The Impact of National Board Certification

NBCT Survey in Oklahoma

(January, 2011) The Oklahoma Technical Assistance Center administered a survey to Oklahoma’s NBCTs to collect data to determine the effects the National Board certification process has had on these teachers, their students, and their schools. Three principal themes emerged concerning the 795 respondents’ perceptions about the effects of the National Board process:  (1) Leadership/Professional Influence, (2) Teacher Effectiveness, and (3) Student Impact.  Download this report in pdf format.

NBCT Survey in South Carolina

(March, 2010) The Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement (CERRA) at Winthrop University conducted a study to determine the impact of National Board Certification on teachers’ practices inside and outside the classroom, according to those who have successfully participated in the process. This research focuses on several aspects of National Board Certification, all of which have some impact on students and their learning, including: targeted recruitment in high-need schools, teacher retention in the classroom, measures of student growth, systematic thinking about teaching practices, reflection on teaching practices, commitment to teaching, leadership roles, and collaboration in schools and the community.  Download this report in pdf format.