The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, NBPTS, has recognized the following Fort Smith Public School Teachers as achieving National Board Certification: Lacy Allen, Darby; Amy Adams, Chaffin; Britney Ballin, Sunnymede/Trusty; Rebecca Bingham, Beard; Marquita Carty, Northside; Rachael Foster, Sunnymede; Lisa Gray, Sunnymede; Wendy Parker, Sunnymede; Kim Rahi, Barling; Josh Ray, Ramsey; Evelyn Denise Stewart, Beard; Lucia Turner, Parker Center; Janet Williamson, Sunnymede; and Lisa York, Orr. Each successfully completed the requirements set forth by NBPTS. With the 14 newly board certified teachers, Fort Smith Public Schools now has 87 educators who hold the prestigious designation.   

“We are proud of each of our National Board Certified teachers,” said Kathleen Cates, Director of Professional Development. “Our students reap the benefits of having such accomplished teachers in the classroom.” National Board Certification is the highest credential available in the teaching profession and involves a lengthy application process for candidates. Educators become certified in specific subjects and grade-levels based on standards developed by master teachers and education experts. The process generally takes one to three years to complete.