National Board Conversations

Welcome back to Candidate Conversations! In this special and highly anticipated episode, we bring you the culmination of Keke Powell's National Board Certification journey. For those who have followed Keke's progress through our series, this episode is where we see her efforts come to fruition as she prepares for her final Component 1 assessment. Keke reflects on her growth and increased confidenc...

This episode of the podcast delves into the power of reflective practice with educator Michele Vicino-Coleman. Michele guides us through her National Board Certification journey, emphasizing how the process encourages teachers to analyze their instructional decisions, understand their students deeply, and articulate the 'why' behind their teaching. Explore how Michele connects this reflective work...

Ever wondered how a job teaching English in South Korea could ignite a lifelong passion for education? In this episode of National Board Conversations, we trace the dynamic journey of Tom Courtney, a teacher whose experiences span continents and grade levels. Tom's story isn't just about classroom instruction; it's about a quest for deeper understanding. From his early days as a self-described "ye...

This episode of the Candidate Conversations podcast is a journey of self-discovery, community, and the power of believing in yourself. Host Danielle sits down with MyDarian Booker, an extraordinary English teacher who returned to his roots to inspire the next generation. MyDarian's pursuit of National Board Certification is a testament to his dedication, not only to his students but also to the co...

Join us as we chat with Miriam Plotinsky, a seasoned educator, author, and instructional specialist with a unique path to the classroom. Miriam shares her unexpected transition from aspiring opera singer to literacy champion, highlighting the key moments and experiences that shaped her teaching philosophy. Discover how National Board Certification empowered her growth, the challenges and rewards o...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Scott Judy, a veteran social studies teacher, coach, and advocate from Utah. Scott shares his journey to National Board Certification, emphasizing the importance of community building, student advocacy, and the power of reflection in teaching. Discover how Scott's involvement in the Utah Teacher Fellows program and his passion for civic engagement have sh...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Nicole Greene, a National Board Certified special education teacher and passionate advocate for neurodiversity. Nicole shares her personal journey as a neurodivergent student and how it shaped her dedication to creating inclusive learning environments. Discover how the National Board Certification process reignited her passion for teaching and propelled h...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Keke Powell, an accomplished teacher and National Board candidate, as she shares her journey through the National Board process and her passion for making a difference in education. Keke opens up about her experiences, the importance of reflection and networking, and her unique approach to managing multiple commitments. She also discusses the power of min...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer DiGioia, a dedicated educator with 22 years of experience, as she shares her journey to achieving National Board Certification. Jennifer opens up about the challenges she faced, the support she found in unexpected places, and the impact the process has had on her teaching. Discover the power of perseverance, self-reflection, and collaboration in...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Tan-A Hoffman, an Anishinaabe language and culture teacher from Michigan's Upper Peninsula.  Tan-A shares her passion for Indigenous education, her journey to becoming a National Board Certified Teacher, and her advocacy for culturally responsive teaching. In this episode, you'll hear about: The importance of Indigenous languages: Tan-A discusses the...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Noraa Ransey, a National Board Certified Teacher with over 20 years of experience in the classroom. Noraa shares her journey as an educator, the challenges and rewards she's encountered, and her unwavering commitment to her students and public education. In this episode, you'll learn about: Noraa's passion for teaching and her dedication to professional d...

In this special National Board Conversations episode, host Edward Santiago sits down with Ricardo Calderon, an inspiring educator with a truly global perspective. Originally from Panama, Ricardo achieved National Board Certification in World Languages and has since taught in a variety of settings across the globe—from rural North Carolina to New York City, Panama, Oman, China, and currently Kuwait...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Toni Dixon-McFarland, a National Board Certified Teacher, published author, and 40+ Double Dutch Club member. Toni's diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to education and community service make her a true trailblazer. In this episode, we'll explore Toni's journey from her early work in child development to her current roles as an educator, life c...

Candidate Conversations by the National Board is a chance to speak with educators who are currently on their National Board journey. Danielle Brown, NBCT, continues our school year-long journey with Keke Powell! She is a second-grade teacher in Texas and is super fun and engaging! In this episode, we catch up with Keke after submission and how she will be enjoying the summer. Don't miss out on all...

In this inspiring episode, we sit with Joe Evans, a National Board Certified Teacher in Adolescent and Young Adult Science. Currently teaching AP Biology, Biology, and Forensics, Joe shares his powerful 28-year teaching journey marked by persistence, professional growth, and a relentless pursuit of accomplished practice. Joe initially sought National Board certification because he craved meaningfu...

This Teacher Appreciation Week, tune in for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Sonia Matthew, a National Board Certified Teacher and assistant principal. Drawing from her experience as an accomplished educator and instructional leader, Dr. Matthew will provide invaluable insights into fostering positive teacher morale. Learn her proven strategies for creating a supportive environment where teacher...

Jennifer DiGioia is a veteran educator of 22 years, a lifelong learner, and a National Board candidate. She jumped on the chance to go through the National Board process when California offered to cover the fees. She has an unmatched passion for her students and wants to be the best educator. Listen to her story on this episode of National Board Conversations.  Twitter: @NBPTS Instagram: @NBP...

On this National Board Conversations episode, you hear from Kim Radostits, NBCT. She is the 2023 Illinois Teacher of the Year and has much to say about her time as an educator. She greatly advocates for the National Board process and has a special message for several other State Teachers of the Year! Be sure to follow her on Twitter @SrtaRad Don't miss out on all National Board related updates; fo...

Katie McClain is a seasoned educator with six years of dedicated service in the esteemed Clark County School District, specializing in high school video production. She embraces the dynamic intersection of creativity and technology within the educational landscape, guiding my students through the intricacies of multimedia storytelling. She is a Career and Technical Education National Board candida...

Tune in to the latest episode of National Board Conversations as we sit down with Jeff Norris, NBCT, the 2024 Alabama Teacher of the Year! Jeff shares his journey, insights, and innovative teaching practices that earned him this prestigious recognition. Gain valuable inspiration and ideas for excellence in education from this dedicated educator!  Don't miss out on all National Board related u...

Candidate Conversations by the National Board is a chance to speak with educators who are currently on their National Board journey. Danielle Brown, NBCT, continues our school year-long journey with Keke Powell! She is a second-grade teacher in Texas and is super fun and engaging! In this episode, we catch up with Keke as the submission window opens and talk about how she plans to attack submittin...

Michelle Accardi is a National Board Certified Teacher in Early Childhood through Young Adulthood/Exceptional Needs Specialist and the Senior Director Strategic Partnerships for the National Board. Before joining the staff of the National Board in 2011, she was an elementary school teacher at Albuquerque Public Schools. She achieved National Board certification in 2005 in Exceptional Needs and ren...

As Senior Manager of Standards, Dianna Minor leads the National Board work in overseeing the Standards Team’s critical functional areas, including project management, consultant management, event planning, and grant reporting. Additionally, Dianna coordinates the Certification Council, which is the arm of the Board of Directors with approval authority over the Standards and Assessment Department....

Barry Thomas has been teaching English for 11 years at Young Oak Kim Academy Middle School in Los Angeles, California. He received his bachelor's degree in English Education at California State University Long Beach and his master's degree in Teaching Pedagogy, along with his teaching credential at USC. He obtained National Board Certification in December of 2021. He also served as English Departm...

Chad achieved National Board Certification in School Counseling with a specialization in Early Childhood Through Young Adulthood and presently works as an elementary school counselor in Montana. He has elementary education and Modern Languages certifications and as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Montana. He began his career teaching elementary school and junior high for sever...