In an exciting development for educators in Maryland, Bowie State University has announced a new, tuition-free program for 75 teachers to earn their National Board Certification. Chosen from a competitive pool of nearly 500 applicants, these educators will engage in a comprehensive three-year process to enhance their teaching skills and improve student outcomes.
The initiative is spearheaded by Bowie State’s Center for Research and Mentoring for Black Male Students and Teachers in collaboration with the Center of Excellence for Educator Preparation and Innovation at Voorhees University. This partnership represents a significant effort to elevate the quality of education across Maryland, focusing on the importance of having certified teachers in classrooms.
Dr. Julius Davis is the founding executive director of Bowie State‘s Center. He emphasized the alignment of this initiative with a state initiative. “This partnership aligns directly with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future by elevating the teaching profession and ensuring all students have access to highly qualified educators, regardless of family income, race, or ethnicity,” Davis stated. He added that the program would enable students to benefit from rigorous curricula and viable pathways to college and careers.
Boosting the Number of Black Educators
A key aspect of the program is its focus on increasing the number of Black male teachers who achieve National Board Certification. By providing tailored resources and support, the initiative aims to encourage more minority educators to embark on this challenging certification journey.
Dr. Damara Hightower Mitchell, CEO of the EPI Center at Voorhees, noted that pursuing National Board Teaching Standards certification offers substantial benefits beyond professional and financial advancement. “I firmly believe perception informs pedagogy. This process facilitates the introspection required for transformative teaching and learning our students deserve,” she explained.
With this innovative program, Bowie State University is taking a significant step towards fostering a more equitable education system in Maryland.
