Kim Thomas, a second- and third-grade math and science teacher at Southern Oaks Elementary School, has earned designation as a National Board Certified Teacher by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards is an organization that is dedicated to improving schools and student learning by strengthening the quality of those who teach. The board sponsors a National Certification Process that measures a teacher’s practices against high standards of excellence. This involves an extensive series of performance-based assessments that includes teaching portfolios, student work samples, videotapes and a thorough analysis of the candidates’ classroom teaching and student learning. Teachers also complete a series of written exercises that explore the depth of their subject-matter knowledge as well as their understanding of how best to teach these subjects to their students.
It is an extremely demanding process and only an elite few who attempt it are successful.
“This achievement is a reflection of Kim’s dedication to advancing her own education,” said Owens Saylor, DCPS Superintendent. “By challenging herself to meet this professional standard of excellence, she exemplifies her commitment to our district mission of providing a world-class education for our students, delivered by the best possible teachers.”
Thomas is currently in her ninth year of teaching. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown College and a master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University.
“This certification has helped me develop my reflection skills on all my teaching practices to ensure I’m meeting all of the needs in my classroom in an effective way,” Thomas said.
“Kim is a wonderful classroom teacher and we are so proud of her and this great accomplishment,” said SOES Principal Jennifer Humphrey. “I believe the National Board Certification has not only helped her be more reflective of her practices, but has also encouraged her students to be more reflective and accountable for their work.”
