This text will be replaced

New Technology Foundation Seeks Applicants for Certification Program
By Christine Marson

In an effort to share best practices among the New Technology High School Network and as a means of recognizing schools’ successes, the New Technology Foundation encourages its schools to apply for certification. The foundation recently unveiled three new certification initiatives: 21st Century School Certification, 21st Century Teacher Certification, and 21st Century Trainer Certification.

“Our plan is to certify schools and teachers who represent excellent examples of 21st-century teaching and learning,” said Megan Pacheco, senior school development coach for New Technology Foundation. “As our network continues expanding, many schools and many teachers have become regional and national leaders. We want to recognize their achievements.”

The path to school-wide certification involves submission of a letter of intent, NTF application review and a school site visit. Once certified, schools will be highlighted on the foundation’s Web site and receive recognition through the Indiana New Technology High School Network.

In addition to school-wide certification, teachers can apply for 21st Century Teacher Certification, which seeks to recognize educators who successfully implement 21st-century teaching and learning practices in their classrooms. The process entails attendance at new teacher training events, a self-evaluation using the 21st Century Teacher Rubric, submission of a letter of intent, and an NTF review including constructive feedback. NTF certified teachers have the opportunity to serve as mentors and may be invited to present at local and national network events.

“The New Tech teachers of Indiana deserve to be recognized for their role as change agents among their local and national community,” said Michael McDowell, school development coach to Indiana for New Technology Foundation. “Their pursuit and recognition of this certification is one way to show that their secondary educational institutions and the stakeholders within are creating 21st-century learning environments to establish and revitalize an economic and social citizenry that will be well prepared to face local and global challenges and opportunities.”

The foundation also encourages teachers to apply for the 21st Century Trainer Certification, which certifies teachers to train other network teachers in the principles and practices of the New Tech model. Pacheco said the trainer model is designed to help schools become self-sustaining. As a certified trainer, individuals receive a digital certificate as well as recognition on NTF’s Network Staff Directory. Certified trainers will receive invitations to run network trainings and other professional development events.

“NTF encourages network schools to consider applying for one, if not more, of these certifications,” said Pacheco. “We see this as a way to recognize and celebrate successes, help with staff and student recruitment, and provide notable distinctions that can help with fundraising efforts and with positive media attention. Certification is a win-win for our network as a whole and for schools specifically.”

For more information on the 21st Century Certifications, schools should contact their NTF school development coach.