To encourage more applicants, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards recently changed the National Board Certification process from one to three years. The cost has dropped from $2,500 to $1,900, and there are now four components: three portfolio entries (submitted online) and one computer-based assessment. Components can be completed in a year or within three years.
Fee support is available from the State Education Department through the union-backed Albert Shanker Grant program. In addition, approximately one-third of NYSUT locals have negotiated additional candidate supports. For more information, a fact sheet is available at www.nysut.org/factsheets or go to www.nbcny.org.