National Board Certification

In 2009-2010, Sonoma State University's School of Education is offering a 9-unit, 3-course sequence to help prepare for National Board of Professional Teaching Standards Certification. This course of study is a great complement to our MA in Education program. Application deadline is May 30, 2009.

National Board Certification is available for preschool, elementary, middle, high school and special education teachers. National, state and local funding may be available to public school teachers seeking National Board Certification, check with your district office for more information about financial benefits.

Course of Study:

Fall 2009: EDUC 574 Introduction to Classroom Research and National Board Certification (1 unit)

Meets Aug 29-30 only, Instructor:  Paula Lane
Introduction to the nuts and bolts of NB certification

Fall 2009: EDUC 575A/B Conducting Research on Teaching (4 units)

Meets Tuesdays 7-9:40pm plus some Saturday sessions (dates TBD), Instructor: Paula Lane
Note: (EDUC 575A is a 3-unit MA program elective course elective without the NB Saturday sessions, EDUC 575B is the 4-unit National Board cognate course)

Focuses on conducting research on teaching and learning in one's own classroom, ideal for all MA students interested in pursuing this kind of work. Students will examine exemplary teaching practices and learn about strategies for research, self-assessment, and reflection on teaching practice. All students will participate in the 3-hour weekly course. The class will augment what MA students learn in EDUC 571 and program area research course(s). NB candidates will also attend a few Saturday workshops throughout the semester, focusing specifically on classroom-based NB portfolio entries.

Spring 2010: EDUC 576 Research, Reflection and Professional Practice (4 units)

This class will be offered in spring semester for teachers completing their NB certification portfolios and preparing for the NB assessment center. It will provide students with structured support for preparing written elements for their NB portfolio, including opportunities for writer's workshop style collaboration.

Direct questions about this program to Dr. Karen Grady, Director of Graduate Studies in the School of Education

How to Apply:
1. Apply to the University online through CSU Mentor at www.csumentor.edu as soon as possible as a graduate student.
2. Indicate in your written comments that you are applying for the National Board Program in the School of Education.
3. If you are currently admitted and/or enrolled in a Credential or Masters program, contact Dr. Karen Grady directly (email:  karen.grady@sonoma.edu)to request joining this cohort for National Board Classes.