Candidate Support

A wide variety of candidate support systems for candidates are available across the country. While NBPTS does not formally endorse these programs, we recognize their importance and the value they bring to the process.  While it is possible to achieve National Board Certification without participating in a support group, many find that participation helps keep them focused and motivated, and enhances their understanding of their teaching practices and the decisions they make in the classroom. 

To learn more about candidate support that may be available in your area, consult the following resources:

State Subsidy Administrator
State subsidy administrators are the individuals responsible for allocating the federal subsidy (and state, if applicable) to candidates in their states.  Often their work expands beyond funding into candidate support.  Please contact your state subsidy administrator to find available support programs in your region.

NBCT Networks
Several formal and informal networks have organized to advocate for accomplished teaching and advance the mission of National Board. As part of their efforts, many provide candidate support.  You are encouraged to access the complete list of NBPTS-Affiliated Networks and contact  these resources to see if they can connect you with quality candidate support in your region.

State and Local Teacher Associations
Many state and local teacher associations provide candidate support.  Please consider reaching out to your state or local affiliate to see if they can connect you with candidate support providers in your region.

Please note: While there are many benefits to candidate support, NBPTS does not license individuals or groups providing support to candidates.  However, keeping the best interest of candidates in mind, NBPTS expects that candidate support providers will meet the high standards for ethical candidate support. For more information, read the Guide for Ethical Candidate Support (PDF - 141kb). 

Reports of unethical behavior must be directly supported by persons who have firsthand knowledge of the occurrence.

Support is Available