Elevating Black Educators Through National Board Certification.
The California Black Educator Initiative (CBEI) is dedicated to increasing the number of Black educators achieving National Board Certification. Through targeted support, financial incentives, and community engagement, CBEI is transforming the educational landscape by fostering excellence and equity in classrooms across California. Since its inception, the initiative has empowered educators with professional growth opportunities, enhancing both their teaching practice and student outcomes.
Meet the CBEI Team

Bootsie
Battle-Holt, NBCT
Director, Strategic Partnerships, West Coast – California Black Educator Initiative

Dr.
Mora Pressley
Manager, Strategic Partnerships, West Coast – California Black Educator Initiative
Why National Board Certification within CBEI?
Elevate your professional journey and amplify your influence on students. National Board Certification stands as the pinnacle of achievement in the teaching profession, recognizing accomplished educators. This esteemed credential opens doors to leadership opportunities, advocacy roles, and a more profound impact within your classroom.
Pursuing certification cultivates enhanced teaching practices, encourages culturally responsive instruction, and contributes to improved student learning.
We invite you to watch a compelling testimonial from Jemila Pratt, who shares her firsthand experience of how the California Black Educator Initiative provided the encouragement she needed to embark on her path to achieving National Board Certification.
CBEI Support & Resources:
Comprehensive Support for Your Certification Journey
- CBEI offers a range of resources to support candidates at every stage of the National Board Certification process:
- Financial Assistance: Access funding opportunities, including fee support and stipends, to help cover certification costs.
- Candidate Support: Join CBEI Pod study groups, attend webinars, and connect with experienced NBCT mentors to navigate the certification process successfully.
- Community Engagement: Become part of a supportive network of Black educators dedicated to professional excellence and student success.
Certification Support
- Financial Incentives
- Mentorship Programs
- Workshops and Training Session
Professional Development
- Continuous Learning Opportunities
- Skill Enhancement Workshops
Community Building
- Professional Learning Communities
- Annual Conferences
Administrator Incentive
- Funding Support
- Professional Mentorship
- School Improvement
Retention Initiatives
- Wellness and Support Services
- Career Advancement Paths
- Recognition Programs
CBEI Events & Webinars
Engage, Learn, and Grow with CBEI
Stay informed about upcoming CBEI events, including certification workshops, informational webinars, and networking sessions. Register for an event today to connect with mentors and peers who will support you throughout your journey.
- Weekly CBEI Information Session
- CBEI Candidate Support Calendar
Stay connected
California's Accelerated Growth
The National Board Certification Incentive Program in California went into effect July 1st, 2021 and grants $5,000 per year to teachers who have achieved National Board Certification and teach at a high priority school as identified by the California Department of Education.
Research Component
The California Black Educator Initiative also includes a valuable research component that will provide a solid foundation for maintaining and expanding funding support in the future. By leveraging the lessons learned, this initiative can be used as a model to be replicated in other states.
Get Involved
Support the Next Generation of NBCTs
- Email the team to learn more: CBEI@nbpts.org
- NBCT Mentorship Opportunities: NBCTs can give back by mentoring CBEI candidates and sharing best practices as a CBEI Pod Ambassador.
- Partner With Us: Districts, universities, and educational organizations can collaborate with CBEI to expand access to certification support.
- Volunteer: Sign up to assist in workshops, webinars, and outreach efforts to further CBEI’s mission.