MHS English teacher achieves national certification
Jeremy Ratliff
Editor
As of Friday, Dec. 6, Merrill High School English Teacher Amy Raddatz has been certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) in the field of English Language Arts/Adolescent And Young Adulthood (ages 14-18+).
Although educators who choose to pursue NBPTS certification are allowed five years to complete the required coursework, Raddatz achieved certification in just three years.
As Amy explains, the inspiration to pursue the heavily coveted educator accolades, also inspired her to pursue education as a career.
“I have always enjoyed learning and sharing knowledge with others. Since becoming a teacher, I’ve developed a passion for lifelong learning. As an educator, I have the ability to share that passion with my students. Pursuing National Board Certification presented an opportunity for me to become a better educator by continuing this learning.”
A native of Iron River, Michigan, Raddatz is in her 16th year of teaching.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Language Arts from Lake Superior State University-Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. and a Master of English Degree from UW-Stevens Point. Raddatz obtained her teaching license via Michigan State University.
“The curriculum for national certification is very intense, but it’s been a very rewarding experience,” she adds.
The curriculum Amy alludes to consists of four components: Content Knowledge, Differentiation in Instruction, Teaching Practice and Learning Environment, and Reflective and Effective Practitioner. Each component is peer-reviewed and graded and requires intensive testing, writing, and data collecting.
As a result of obtaining National Board Certification, Raddatz’s passion for lifelong learning will prove to be an asset, as maintaining certification will require renewal every five years.
As she explains, the achievement also marks a step forward in her personal professional development.
“This certification really opens the window for future learning,” Amy explains with a grin.
“Aside from renewal requirements, this will help me become a more effective educator, maintaining a high level of excellence in delivering lessons and educating my students.”
“We are all very proud of Amy’s accomplishment!” comments MAPS Superintendent Dr. John Sample.
“The requirements of National Board Certification are extremely rigorous and very challenging. Earning this certification is a true reflection of the high quality Amy exhibits as a professional teacher.”
Despite her dedicated effort to not only complete certification requirements, but do so in just three years, Raddatz owes credit to those who have supported her journey.
“I couldn’t have done this without the help and support of my family, students, colleagues here at the high school and throughout the district, and administrators. I am very thankful for the support I have received along the way.”
Raddatz is the only current MAPS educator to achieve National Board Certification.