Expert support for Illinois educators ready to maximize their impact.
Personalized support from experienced mentors who understand the unique needs of Illinois educators
Clear, step-by-step workshops and resources designed for each component of the certification process
Connect with fellow educators who share your commitment to teaching excellence and student success
National Board Certification helps you become a more reflective, effective educator, enhancing student learning and opening doors to professional recognition and growth opportunities.
Illinois educators who want to advance their teaching practice often struggle without clear guidance and support. At the National Board Resource Center, we understand this challenge and serve as your dedicated guide throughout the certification journey. Our team provides the structure, expertise, and community you need to succeed as you pursue this meaningful professional growth.
We connect you with experienced mentors for personalized guidance
We provide access to specialized workshops and Illinois-aligned resources
We welcome you into our community of educators committed to excellence
Hear how National Board Certification has transformed teaching practices across our state.
I found myself reflecting and utilizing data in daily ways that I had fallen out of the habit of doing. The questions I needed to ask myself for my video and data-informed practices became the questions I was asking myself during and after every lesson for every class. Asking myself why, how, and what impact? became an ingrained practice. It was also incredible to work with a mentor like Ray Salazar, who is such a knowledgeable educator. Our conversations went beyond the certification process into truly rich pedagogical discussions.
National Board Certification transformed my teaching—everything is now evidence-based, and my students constantly reflect and justify their thinking. It’s elite-level teaching that proves your impact.
The experience has truly pushed me to analyze my teaching in ways I never had before. It’s not just about proving my skills—it’s about continuous growth and learning. Balancing my classroom responsibilities while working on my portfolio was a challenge, but it was worth it. It made me more intentional in my teaching practices.
Social Studies Teacher
The National Board process gave me the structure to reflect more intentionally, to examine my impact, and to elevate my practice to meet the needs of all students. It forced me to step back from the day-to-day and ask if what I was doing was truly effective. That level of deep reflection helped me align my interventions more closely with student data and become more intentional in advocating for equity.
Attend an orientation session where you'll map out your path to certification with guidance from experienced mentors.
Access workshops, resources, and a community of peers that will help you develop as a reflective, accomplished educator.
Complete your certification and transform your teaching practice, making a greater difference for your students.
Don’t miss these opportunities to advance your teaching practice:
Receive information about upcoming certification events and resources.
