University faculty teach classes to mentors and act as resources. The collaborative now works with six public schools and two teacher preparation programs. The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards targets experienced teachers for certification. Teachers are knowledgeable about the content and pedagogy of their subject areas For each certification area, committees of teachers, academics, and experts develop standards for subject areas and developmental levels. Certificates in the remaining 28 areas will be available over the next five years.
Certificates are good for seven to ten years and are renewable.
Teachers receive written feedback on all parts of the process. The effort, known as the World Class Teacher Project, represents a collaboration among the state's seven colleges of education and its public schools. Up to 76 teachers will have their application and travel fees paid, receive professional development such as graduate seminars and study groups, receive five days of release time, obtain help in producing their required videos, and receive other support services. Certified teachers receive 4 percent annual salary bonuses.