These teachers are undergoing a very difficult task and these workshops are designed to help them succeed. Topics covered in the first session included sections on accomplished teaching and a discussion of techniques designed to help teachers make good choices in compiling the material used to complete their portfolios. Additional workshop sessions will cover teaching ethics, how to best assess student work and the best way to use video in their portfolios. Considered by many in the educational community as one of the most prestigious teacher certifications in the country, National Board Certification is based on a system of high standards. They also complete day-long assessment center exercises that examine their subject matter knowledge and strategies for teaching students.
Portfolios generally require four to five classroom-based exercises.
Each entry also requires an accompanying written analysis of the teaching reflected in the videotape or student work. Another part of the portfolio documents teachers' work outside the classroom with families, colleagues and the community. Teachers are asked to show evidence of their accomplishments and comment on the importance of those accomplishments. The goal of all these exercises is to document that teachers meet National Board standards. Another valuable part of the National Board Support Network is the support teachers receive from colleagues going through the same process.