Reflective Teacher at TeachThought- November Blog Challenge- Day 3

I am going to say that my proudest moment in teaching is not a specific moment with a student or another teacher but something I chose to do for myself which indirectly leads to many wonderful moments with students and colleagues. And that was getting my National Board Certification.

This is such a watershed moment for me because it was so difficult, taking me 2 years to accomplish. I did it alone, without a cohort group since there were none available in our school district and others were not convenient to get to. I lacked other going through the same process save for another World Language teacher teaching in another town and whom I felt that I was bothering with all my questions. I was appreciative for her help, but knew in the end this was a journey I was making alone.
Many asked me "Why would you do something like that if you are not getting much out of it?" Not as much support around me as I had hoped for, but I continued on.

So Year 1 of papers, reflection and videos passed and I sent that box away in March.  And I waited for the day in November when scores were posted. And that day came. I missed being an NBCT by 2 points- 2.lousy.points. I was so close, yet not there!! And I was sad, pissed all at the same time...and then I did what I do best. I kicked in with some grit, pulled up my big girl pants and took the challenge on again. For another year. Alone again.

And here is my proudest moment. Going through the process a second time I was reflecting more, re-writing and analyzing how I could be better. Remaking myself as a better and stronger teacher!! And I sent that box away in March again. And I waited for that day in November when scores were posted. And the day came. And I was an NBCT.