National Board Certified Teachers

A voluntary, advanced teaching credential created by teachers that recognizes accomplished practice. It’s portable nationwide.

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher)
• 3+ years of teaching by the time you submit your portfolio for scoring
• Valid Texas certificate (or service in an approved setting where a license isn’t required)

• Stronger practice through deep reflection tied to student evidence
• Student gains supported by research on NBCT effectiveness
• Career credibility with a nationally recognized, portable credential
• Texas recognition via TIA after full certification (eligible fee reimbursement up to $1,900)

A structured cohort from January–June 2026 with guided prep, peer community, targeted feedback, and milestone check-ins.

• October 28 at 5 p.m.: Awareness Session (Zoom link)
• November 4 and 18: Next Steps (in person)
• December 1–12: FWISD selection for the 2026 Candidate Cohort
• January 2026: Cohort prep, NBPTS registration, start program
• March–June 2026: Testing window for Component 1
• June 2026: – 2025–26 cohort support concludes

Attend the October/November sessions for details. The application link and instructions will be posted at fwisd.org/nbct. Selection is competitive.

Readiness and Fit

• I have 3+ years of teaching experience by the time I submit my NBPTS portfolio.
• I’m comfortable with videoing my teaching and reflecting on student evidence.
• I enjoy deep reflection and writing about instructional decisions.
• I can dedicate 2–4 hours/week (average) during component work; more near deadlines.
• My campus schedule can accommodate peer observation, video, and evidence collection.
• I welcome feedback from peers and mentors.
• I can manage deadlines across several months.
• I’m ready to build a portfolio that shows student growth and my impact.

Support and Logistics

• My principal supports my participation (observation, scheduling, coverage as needed).
• I’m comfortable with technology (recording, file uploads, NBPTS platform).
• I value a cohort for accountability and idea-sharing.
• I’ll attend FWISD Awareness/Next Steps sessions this fall.

Cost, Incentives, and ROI

• I understand NBPTS component costs ($475 each; four total) and the $75 annual registration (not reimbursable).
• I know FWISD and Texas recognize NBCT in TIA with eligible fee reimbursement up to $1,900 after full certification.
• I see the career value of a national, portable credential.

Cohort size depends on demand and available support capacity. Details will be shared at the info sessions and on fwisd.org/ncbt.

Plan for ~2–4 hours/week on average during component work; time increases near deadlines.

• Component 1: Computer-based assessment of content knowledge (tested Mar–Jun 2026)
• Component 2: Differentiation in instruction (portfolio)
• Component 3: Teaching practice and learning environment (video + analysis)
• Component 4: Effective and reflective practitioner (evidence of impact)

• $475 per component (four total)
• $75 annual NBPTS registration (non-refundable, non-reimbursable)
• Retakes are not reimbursable

After full NBCT certification, Texas recognizes the credential within TIA; eligible component fees may be reimbursed up to $1,900. See fwisd.org/tia for how designations apply.

Yes. Candidates purchase components as they are ready to complete them; reimbursement (if eligible) occurs after full certification.

Options:

• Attend all sessions, build readiness with the “Is NBCT Right for Me?” checklist, and reapply next cycle
• Begin independent NBPTS work and seek campus-based support
• Join interest meetings to stay on the list for future cohorts

Candidates follow district/campus guidelines for consent, privacy, and FERPA. Your cohort leads will provide templates and guidance.

Campus leaders help with scheduling (e.g., observation/video windows) and encouragement; they’re key partners in candidate success.

Accommodations may be available through NBPTS procedures. Candidates should review requirements early in the process.

FWISD’s recognition is aligned to TIA. Additional stipends, if any, will be communicated on fwisd.org/ncbt.

Yes. It’s recognized across states and districts nationwide.

Talent Management: Employee Performance and Evaluation
Dr. Lezley Lewis | Lezley.Lewis@fwisd.org.

• FWISD info and updates: fwisd.org/NBCT
• NBPTS overview: nbpts.org/texas
• TIA in Texas: fwisd.org/tia