Starting Your Journey

The process of becoming a National Board Certified Teacher is rigorous, time-consuming, and intense. Conversely, it is also incredibly worthwhile and will change candidates' teaching and their students' learning for the better. This chapter gives an overview of the process, setting appropriate expectations before candidates begin. It includes a breakdown of each of the four components of certification and a discussion of the best time to take on each component: in what order and at what point in one's teaching career. The chapter finishes with a strong emphasis on working through the components in community, either with a mentor, a colleague, or one of many online support groups.