Fairfax County Public Schools announced on April 21 that ten teachers have earned or renewed National Board Certification, a credential recognized nationally for high standards in teaching practice.
The recognition highlights the ongoing efforts of Fairfax County Public Schools to support teacher development and student learning. The school division noted that accomplished teaching requires deep knowledge, reflection, and strong commitment to students.
According to the announcement, newly certified National Board teachers include Jackie Kwon from the Advanced Academic Office, Stacy Pekarik from Wakefield Forest Elementary School, and Bhumika Saxena from Twain Middle School. Additionally, eight educators renewed their board certification: Carrie Cleary (Saratoga Elementary School), Jennifer Cottle (Haycock Elementary School), Krista Gallagher (Cardinal Forest Elementary School), Kathleen Gannon (Stone Middle School), Allison Popsuy (Stone Middle School), Christopher Roeseler (Bucknell Elementary School), Suzanne Roettger (Providence Elementary School), and Catherine Williams (Fairfax High School).
For more than two decades, Fairfax County Public Schools has supported its teachers in earning this certification. The division reports that over 500 educators have reached this milestone. It is ranked among the top five in Virginia for both new National Board certified teachers and current candidates. Nationwide, Fairfax County Public Schools is among the top thirty districts with more than 200 active National Board-certified teachers currently working with students.
The process of initial certification and renewal involves creating a portfolio that demonstrates high-quality instruction aligned with the Five Core Propositions of Accomplished Teaching within each certificate area. The Office of Professional Learning at Fairfax County Public Schools offers free professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and individualized assistance through its Academy Course program to support candidates pursuing certification.
Many National Board Certified Teachers within Fairfax County Public Schools have advanced into leadership roles throughout the division. More information about National Board certification can be found through resources provided by Fairfax County Public Schools.
