The National Board process has a teacher do some major self reflection into why you do what you do and how it impacts student learning. It also encourages goal setting for the future.

For me, it forced me to change how materials are accessed in my room. Prior to the National Board process, I was the guardian of graphic organizers. I passed them out when I wanted them completed. So in essence, I determined when a student could use them. If I want graphic organizers to be a tool in learning, I realized that students needed access as needed. So I instituted a hanging folder system where students could get graphic organizers anytime they wanted.

The process helped me to realize the need and relevance of formative assessments and to change lessons based on how students were performing during the lesson.

Achieving National Board Certification has made me step up into many leadership roles. I have been a fellow for Teach Plus and have lead classes during Covid. I have also presented for the National Board. I mentor candidates going through the process. Certification has also made me reflect on my teaching to ensure that I reached the goals that I planned on during a lesson. Before certification, I did not have my students self assess their learning. This has been powerful for my students because they are taking charge of their learning.