Arkansas has received federal candidate subsidy funding to assist Arkansas teachers in paying the National Board certification fee. This opportunity is not related to state funding available through a competitive process but is a separate means of receiving funds to pay half of the National Board certification initial fee. This was first offered to teachers in school improvement and high poverty schools in Arkansas as directed by National Board. There remains sufficient funding for 35 teachers to receive subsidy for half of the application cost.
Four attachments detail the process to apply for these funds, including the obligation of an Arkansas teacher to provide personally the matching funds. Since the application fee for National Board certification is $2,300, a candidate can be awarded $1,150 to be matched personally with $1,150. Also attached are National Board eligibility requirements, potential sources of funding to assist teachers in providing the match, and the data form to be returned if a teacher requests use of these funds.
Questions about this opportunity may be directed to Barbara Patty, NBPTS Program Advisor, at bpatty@arkedu.k12.ar.us or 501-682-1146. The deadline to request this funding, available on a first come, first served basis, is February 1, 2004 through submission of the Candidate Subsidy Applicant Data Form.