UTEP is now offering a graduate-level course (TED 5319 Graduate Workshop in Education) designed to help teachers understand the requirements and components of the rigorous, year-long process. While the class focuses on National Board, it is really a personalized staff development because teachers describe, analyze, and reflect on what they do in their respective classrooms. Enrolled in the current UTEP class is Caroline Grant, a 4th grade teacher at Mitzi Bond Elementary. “As a result of this class, I have become a better educator, and I feel comfortable with the NBC process,” she states. “The opportunity to work with the instructor, a nationally certified teacher, and other educators in my area has been a wonderful learning experience. I now feel confident that I will achieve National Board Certification and I strongly encourage all teachers to participate in the Teacher Workshop in Education.”

Another teacher enrolled in the class is Victor Renteria, a math teacher at Bowie High School. He enrolled in the course to learn more about NBC details. He says, “Now, as the course is ending, I feel that I will succeed in the cycle beginning this April. I’m more prepared and won’t be surprised by any of the required activities. I will also have a support network to assist me if I begin to feel overwhelmed.”

The next course offering will be Fall 2004.Teachers interested in enrolling in the UTEP course will need to apply to the Graduate School, but do not have to pursue a degree. Contact Deborah Svedman at dsvedman@utep.edu for more information.