Even those who do not pass the first time often say the certification process itself has made them better teachers. It also provides a sound basis for rewarding teachers for their merit. But the idea is beginning to catch on. In November 1999, nearly 3,000 teachers received board certification, and 10,000 more have submitted their applications for the next round. Many states and districts recognize that when teachers demonstrate this kind of merit, additional pay and other incentives are called for.
Teacher unions agree.
With incentives like these, it's no wonder that 25 percent of teachers who now hold board certification are from North Carolina. All states and school districts should provide this kind of support. Board certification is one of a number of paths we need to pursue in order to guarantee that every student has access to high-quality teaching. But it is a way to recognize a high level of competence and thus keep good teachers in the profession and in the classroom. It is a basis for merit pay that truly recognizes merit.