21 teachers honored for earning teaching certification

The Hawai‘i State Department of Education is celebrating 21 teachers statewide – including two from Hawai‘i Island – who earned their National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification – a recognition for meeting the highest standards for teaching.

“Our National Board Certified Teachers are not just educators; they are mentors, leaders, and champions of excellence,” Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. “They possess a deep understanding of their subject matter and a keen insight into the individual needs and strengths of each of their students. … Their commitment to continuous improvement and their willingness to push the boundaries of their own professional practice sets an inspiring example for all of us.”

On Saturday, the new National Board Certified Teachers were honored by Gov. Josh Green, Hayashi, Kamehameha Schools Kapālama Hope Poʻo Kumu [Vice Principal] Keola Silva, Joan Lewis, president of the Hawaiʻi Education Association and the Hawai‘i Teacher Standards Board at a ceremony Saturday, along with legislators and representatives of the Hawai‘i State Teachers Association.

Kristal Blacksmith from Waikōloa Elementary & Middle School and Nekia Mahzad-Nolan who teaches at Hilo High were among those honored.

To earn or retain this certification, educators must be up-to-date with the latest educational strategies and best practices. It is a rigorous process that can take one to three years and involves applicants submitting a comprehensive portfolio.

During Saturday’s event, Green thanked the newly certified cohort for their dedication and remarked on the importance of highly qualified teachers to the entire state, saying their commitment to students lays the foundation for the future of the entire state.

In addition to the 21 newly certified teachers, 83 educators renewed their board certifications. Hawai‘i ranks 12th in the nation for the percentage board board-certified teachers. Hawaiʻi now has 789 teachers holding this designation.

Click here for the full list of teachers recognized for their certification.