In this special National Board Conversations episode, host Edward Santiago sits down with Ricardo Calderon, an inspiring educator with a truly global perspective. Originally from Panama, Ricardo achieved National Board Certification in World Languages and has since taught in a variety of settings across the globe—from rural North Carolina to New York City, Panama, Oman, China, and currently Kuwait.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Ricardo shares his journey, insights on teaching diverse student populations, and how being a National Board Certified Teacher has impacted his teaching practice in classrooms worldwide. He discusses the unique challenges and rewards of working in international schools and how his experiences have shaped his philosophy of education.

This episode is a must-listen for educators passionate about cultural diversity, global education, and the power of National Board Certification. Tune in to hear Ricardo’s story and his advice for educators who are seeking to make a lasting impact both locally and globally.

Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Toni Dixon-McFarland, a National Board Certified Teacher, published author, and 40+ Double Dutch Club member. Toni's diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to education and community service make her a true trailblazer.

In this episode, we'll explore Toni's journey from her early work in child development to her current roles as an educator, life coach, and creative writer. Toni will share insights on the critical skills needed for effective teaching today and discuss the benefits and impact of her National Board Certification.

We'll also explore Toni's literary pursuits, including the inspiration behind her debut novel, "Dead Confused," and the upcoming "Kuriously Krazy." Of course, we can't miss the chance to learn about Toni's involvement in the 40+ Double Dutch Club and how this unique activity fuels her passions.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in education, personal growth, and the power of pursuing multiple passions.

Books Mentioned:

• "Dead Confused" by Toni Dixon-McFarland: [Amazon]
• "Kuriously Krazy" by Toni Dixon-McFarland: [Amazon]

Connect with Toni:

• Instagram: @7goldbutterflies

Learn more about National Board Certification:

• National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
• Facebook
• Twitter

Candidate Conversations by the National Board is a chance to speak with educators who are currently on their National Board journey. Danielle Brown, NBCT, continues our school year-long journey with Keke Powell! She is a second-grade teacher in Texas and is super fun and engaging! In this episode, we catch up with Keke after submission and how she will be enjoying the summer.

Don't miss out on all National Board related updates; follow us on social media to keep up!

Twitter: @NBPTS
Instagram: @NBPTS
Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

In this inspiring episode, we sit with Joe Evans, a National Board Certified Teacher in Adolescent and Young Adult Science. Currently teaching AP Biology, Biology, and Forensics, Joe shares his powerful 28-year teaching journey marked by persistence, professional growth, and a relentless pursuit of accomplished practice.

Joe initially sought National Board certification because he craved meaningful feedback on his skills while teaching in the smallest district in his state. Though he didn't pass on his first attempt, Joe didn't let that define him. He proudly keeps that notification letter to remind students that failure is part of the path to success.

After doubling down on his efforts, Joe achieved certification. Now at 64 years old and the sole NBCT in his district, he continues raising the bar - recently renewing through the Maintenance of Certification process and enrolling in a second Master's program.

Tune in as Joe reflects on his winding career path, the impact of National Board certification on his evolution as an educator, and how he's leveraged his expertise to become a celebrated role model and leader among colleagues. His story exemplifies the lifelong learning mindset at the heart of accomplished teaching.

Whether you're an NBCT candidate or a fellow trailblazer in the profession, Joe's firsthand insights are sure to motivate and inspire you on your own journey. Don't miss this candid conversation!

This Teacher Appreciation Week, tune in for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Sonia Matthew, a National Board Certified Teacher and assistant principal. Drawing from her experience as an accomplished educator and instructional leader, Dr. Matthew will provide invaluable insights into fostering positive teacher morale. Learn her proven strategies for creating a supportive environment where teachers feel empowered, valued, and motivated to have maximum impact in the classroom.

Jennifer DiGioia is a veteran educator of 22 years, a lifelong learner, and a National Board candidate. She jumped on the chance to go through the National Board process when California offered to cover the fees. She has an unmatched passion for her students and wants to be the best educator. Listen to her story on this episode of National Board Conversations.

Twitter: @NBPTS
Instagram: @NBPTS
Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

On this National Board Conversations episode, you hear from Kim Radostits, NBCT. She is the 2023 Illinois Teacher of the Year and has much to say about her time as an educator. She greatly advocates for the National Board process and has a special message for several other State Teachers of the Year! Be sure to follow her on Twitter @SrtaRad

Don't miss out on all National Board related updates; follow us on social media to keep up!

Twitter: @NBPTS
Instagram: @NBPTS
Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

Katie McClain is a seasoned educator with six years of dedicated service in the esteemed Clark County School District, specializing in high school video production. She embraces the dynamic intersection of creativity and technology within the educational landscape, guiding my students through the intricacies of multimedia storytelling. She is a Career and Technical Education National Board candidate.

In this episode of National Board Conversations, she talks about her journey to this point and gets into the intricacies of how she has been able to weave her first career in broadcast journalism with becoming a teacher on her way to achieving National Board Certification.

Twitter: @NBPTS
Instagram: @NBPTS
Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards