New Book Prepares Teachers for National Board Certification

The Leverage of National Board Candidacy: An Exploration of Teacher Learning by Jana Lynn Hunzicker
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Universal Publishers (December 19, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1581129416
ISBN-13: 978-1581129410

The Leverage of National Board Candidacy captures the experiences of three teachers who sought National Board certification during the 2004-2005 school year. Comparing their experiences to recently conducted research, the book explores characteristics of readiness for National Board candidacy, common learning outcomes of the NBPTS certification process, and possible explanations for the varying nature and degree of learning that occurs for teachers through the experience. The final chapter of the book presents the theory of leverage during National Board candidacy: An interactive dynamic that creates an uncomfortable yet positive pressure that makes the pursuit of National Board certification one of the most powerful professional development experiences currently available to teachers.

The only book of its kind currently on the market, The Leverage of National Board Candidacy is ideal for teachers who wish to begin their NBPTS certification experience with a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges of National Board candidacy. While the book can be read individually, it is ideal for cohort groups and graduate courses offering preparation and support to National Board pre-candidates and candidates.

Because The Leverage of National Board Candidacy is written to encourage group discussion and individual reflection, a 30-question Reading Group Guide is included in the final section of the book. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to better understand the National Board certification experience!

About the Author

Jana Hunzicker, an elementary school principal and regional coordinator for National Board support in the state of Illinois, holds a master’s degree in educational administration and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction. Interested in promoting National Board certification as a tool of educational reform, she has designed several qualitative studies that explore the influence of the National Board certification process on teacher learning and student learning experiences.

Visit the publisher’s website at http://www.universal-publishers.com