I have already responded individually to both individuals who have asked questions
about National Board Certification. I agree with everything Gail said below, but a
resource that was my lifesaver was the Yahoo Group that exists for library media
specialists going through the process. One of the first things I suggest to any
NBCT candidate it to join the group. Even if you do not ask or respond to any
messages there is a wealth of information shared there. There are also contacts,
others who are at the same place you are, NBCT's and retake candidates who are
always willing to share their expertise and experiences. They are also very
important when it comes time to have someone read and critique your portfolios. To
join go to Yahoo Groups and search for librarymedia (one word).
-------------- Original message --------------
From: Gail Smith <gsmith@EDISON.CPS.K12.IL.US>
> Hi, Theresa and others who might be considering NBPTS Certification,
>
> The accomplishments you should be documenting for your National Board
> Entries are things you have been doing, that can go back as long as
> the previous 5 years, rather than thinking of something new to do for
> the National Board process. You need to have several accomplishments
> that show your contributions to our profession as a learner, as a
> leader, and as a collaborator, as well as connections to students,
> their families, and the community. It is really not just a case of
> "doing your community project."
>
> My recommendation would be to do two things. First, download the
> portfolio instructions from the NBPTS website (under Candidate
> Resources) and read through the whole thing. Yes, it is very long,
> but it will help you determine whether your practice includes
> activities that are valued as part of your entries. Then look at
> what accomplishments you can document. Do you have programs from
> workshops you taught? Letters of appreciation from colleagues or
> parents thanking you for something that impacted students? E-Mails
> that could be used to verify some professional development in which
> you participated that show your involvement as a learner? Only when
> you can come up with "clear, consistent, and convincing" evidence, in
> writing, are you ready to apply for National Board Certification.
>
> You will very likely have this in your files already, but not
> everyone does, and without it your are going to put in a lot of
> effort without being able to succeed because of a lack of documentation.
>
> The experience of working towards National Board Certification was
> the most rigorous professional development and self-evaluation in
> which I have ever participated. For anyone considering the attempt,
> I would say that you should check on what is required and then go for
> it. Plan on having it pretty much take over your life for much of a
> year, but you will be left with a wonderful feeling of
> accomplishment, as well as a new way of looking at your profession.
>
> I will be happy to correspond with anyone who has specific questions
> to ask about the program or the process
>
> On Feb 27, 2006, at 4:10 PM, libraryth@COMCAST.NET wrote:
>
> Hello Netters,
> I am considering going through the process to attempt to become
> nationally board certified. My question is what did you do (or do
> you suggest) as your community project? I am thinking I would do
> something geared towards Children's Book Week in November 2006. I
> also have two teachers (K and 2nd) who are attempting the process as
> well. I would really like to do something that all of us could
> collaborate to complete. Ideas? I will post any responses.
>
> Gail Smith, NBCT
> Librarian & Tech Facilitator
> Edison Regional Gifted Center - Chicago, Illinois
> gsmith@edison.cps.k12.il.us
>
>
> --------------------------------------------------------------------
> Please note: All LM_NET postings are protected by copyright law.
> You can prevent most e-mail filters from deleting LM_NET postings
> by adding LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU to your e-mail address book.
> To change your LM_NET status, e-mail to: listserv@listserv.syr.edu
> In the message write EITHER: 1) SIGNOFF LM_NET 2) SET LM_NET NOMAIL
> 3) SET LM_NET MAIL 4) SET LM_NET DIGEST * Allow for confirmation.
> * LM_NET Help & Information: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/
> * LM_NET Archive: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/archive/
> * EL-Announce with LM_NET Select: http://elann.biglist.com/sub/
> * LM_NET Supporters: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/ven.html
> --------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Please note: All LM_NET postings are protected by copyright law.
You can prevent most e-mail filters from deleting LM_NET postings
by adding LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU to your e-mail address book.
To change your LM_NET status, e-mail to: listserv@listserv.syr.edu
In the message write EITHER: 1) SIGNOFF LM_NET 2) SET LM_NET NOMAIL
3) SET LM_NET MAIL 4) SET LM_NET DIGEST * Allow for confirmation.
* LM_NET Help & Information: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/
* LM_NET Archive: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/archive/
* EL-Announce with LM_NET Select: http://elann.biglist.com/sub/
* LM_NET Supporters: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/ven.html
--------------------------------------------------------------------
LM_NET
Mailing List Home