National certification for principals

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) and TaskStream, provider of Web-based software and supporting services for electronic portfolios and performance assessment, today announced a partnership for the implementation of the National Board’s newly created program to develop, recognize and retain effective principals nationwide.

Building on the National Board’s renowned National Board Certification program for teachers and school counselors, the National Board Certification for Principals initiative has created professional standards for accomplished school leaders and is field-testing a rigorous, evidence-based assessment process to certify principals who meet those standards. NBPTS will use TaskStream’s e-portfolio and assessment system to support the evaluation of written and video documentation from the approximately 500 principals currently engaged in the field test of the certification program. Principals also have the opportunity to communicate and collaborate with other participants through online discussion boards.

“TaskStream has a long track record of equipping K-12 and post-secondary institutions with the effective, time-saving tools and full support needed to assess and enhance the performance of educators and students alike,” said Joan Auchter, Chief Program Officer and director of the initiative for NBPTS. “We are continually impressed by TaskStream’s responsiveness and are excited to have such a strong partner dedicated to advancing educational leadership with this program.”

Following the three-year field test, principals throughout the country will be able to use this online technology to complete the National Board Certification process. The goal is to recognize and increase the number of effective principals who create a culture of learning that benefits students, teachers and entire schools.

“We are thrilled to join forces with the NBPTS to help ensure the success of this groundbreaking initiative to prepare principal leaders across the country,” said TaskStream President Webster Thompson. “The work of NBPTS aligns perfectly with TaskStream’s deep commitment to ensure that our nation’s educators and students have the knowledge and skills they need for success.”