If you are a candidate for National Board Certification seeking your initial certificate, this workshop is for you! This is a hands-on workshop designed to help every teacher — no matter your school, your community, or your background — take a confident first step toward National Board Certification.
National Board Certification is a voluntary, meaningful professional credential — a process that invites teachers to reflect deeply on their practice and demonstrate their commitment to every student they serve.
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is an independent nonprofit organization committed to advancing teaching quality and expanding access to excellent education. The process was developed by teachers for teachers, rooted in five core propositions that center on student learning, equity, and professional growth. NBPTS believes every student — regardless of background or circumstance — deserves to learn from a skilled, supported teacher.
More than 146,000 teachers across the country have completed this process. Certification is valid for five years and can be maintained through the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) process.
National Board Certification is built on the belief that every student deserves an excellent teacher — and that teachers in all communities, including those who have been historically underserved, should have access to the support and recognition they deserve. NBPTS is committed to expanding access to certification so that accomplished teachers from all backgrounds can pursue this process.
The requirements for National Board Certification are straightforward. If you’re teaching in a classroom today, there’s a good chance you already qualify — or you’re closer than you think.
Jump Start is the VEA’s three-day, hands-on workshop for teachers who are ready to begin their National Board Certification journey — wherever they are starting from.
Hosted by the Virginia Education Association, an affiliate of NBPTS, Jump Start is led by experienced National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) who serve as Professional Learning Facilitators (PLFs). These are educators who have walked this path themselves and are committed to helping others do the same. Participants explore their own certificate standards, work through the component process step by step, and connect with fellow candidates who share their commitment to growing as teachers.
Jump Start is designed to be welcoming and accessible. Whether you’re teaching in an under-resourced school, a rural community, or anywhere in between, this workshop meets you where you are. You’ll leave with real clarity, practical tools, and a supportive community behind you.
No matter where you’re teaching or where you’re starting from, the VEA is here to help you take the next step, with support, community, and guidance every step of the way.
Register for Jumpstart now. Space is limited.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to vea.workshops@veanea.org with your name and detailed question.
Register HereTeacher shortages are a serious issue across the country. Here in Virginia, there are currently over 3,648 unfilled teaching positions. (FY23)
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