Announcing National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Candidate Fee Support

The Maine Department of Education announces the availability of several
$1250 scholarships to support Maine public school teachers wishing to
participate in the National Board Certification process during the coming
school year. Retake candidates, who did not receive federal money to
support their initial candidacy, are also eligible to receive up to $700
for two retake exercises. These funds are made available through a federal
subsidy from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Those
wishing to request these funds need to contact Ellen Holmes, NBPTS Subsidy
Administrator, at ellen.holmes@maine.gov or 207-624-6879 for more information
and program guidelines.

What is National Board Certification?

This rigorous, research-based professional development opportunity is part
of a national effort to reach goals established by the National Commission
on Teaching and America's Future. The National Board Certification process
is for teachers with three or more years' experience and is voluntary.
National Board Certification is one of the highest honors that is bestowed
by the teaching profession and is a symbol of commitment to accomplished
teaching. NBCT's are called upon to advise, assist and mentor prospective,
new and experienced teachers, and to inform education policymakers. Those
who wish to learn more about the National Board for Professional Teaching
Standards and the National Board Certification process should visit the
NBPTS web site www.nbpts.org .

What incentives are available to Maine's teachers?

Incentives available to NBCT's in Maine include an annual stipend of $3000
to any NBCT who teaches in their area of certification and for the life of
his or her contract. Each local district is responsible for providing a
list of its National Board Certified Teachers to the State Department of
Education by October 15 in the school year in which the stipend is to be
received. In addition, individual school systems provide various
compensation and support for candidates and NBCT's that may include pay
incentives, additional professional development time, and full or partial
fee payment. 

 

Ellen Holmes, NBCT
Distinguished Educator
Maine Department of Education
23 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04330
Voice: 207-624-6879
Cell: 207-660-5586
Fax: 207-624-6821