Alamogordo Public Schools Celebrates Newest National Board Certified Teacher

National Board Certification for teachers was designed to develop, retain and recognize accomplished teachers and to generate ongoing improvement in schools nationwide. It is the most respected professional certification available in K-12 education.

Created by teachers, for teachers, the National Board Standards represent a consensus among educators about what accomplished teachers should know and be able to do. Board certification is available in 25 certificate areas spanning 16 disciplines from Pre-K through 12th grade.

The certification process requires that teachers demonstrate standards-based evidence of the positive effect they have on student learning in alignment with the Five Core Propositions. They must exhibit a deep understanding of their students, content knowledge, use of data and assessments and teaching practice. They must also show that they participate in learning communities and provide evidence of ongoing reflection and continuous learning.

Alamogordo Public Schools in a release said they are thrilled to announce that Andie Sowden, a dedicated educator at Holloman Elementary is the most recent addition to this prestigious program of achievement. Mrs. Sowden has achieved the prestigious distinction of becoming a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) jouning the ranks of exceptional achievement that only 5 other teachers in the APS system have achieved. This significant accomplishment represents one of the highest professional achievements in teaching, attained by only about three percent of educators nationwide.

National Board Certification is a rigorous and voluntary process that reflects a teacher’s unwavering commitment to excellence. This certification requires an extensive self-assessment of teaching practices, compilation of a comprehensive portfolio showcasing evidence of teaching effectiveness, and participation in challenging assessment center exercises. Each candidate’s work is rigorously evaluated by trained assessors who are themselves accomplished educators.

Ms. Sowden’s certification highlights her dedication to providing the highest quality education to her students and her commitment to meeting the profession’s highest standards. Now in her 11th year with Alamogordo Public Schools, she has embraced various roles, including instructional leader and mentor, consistently demonstrating her passion for teaching and learning. Research consistently shows that students taught by NBCTs achieve greater academic gains, equating to an additional one to two months of instruction.

“Andie Sowden’s achievement as a National Board Certified Teacher is a testament to her dedication, skill, and passion for education,” said Interim Superintendent Michael Crabtree. “Her commitment to excellence benefits not only her students but also our entire school community.”

In celebrating Ms. Sowden’s accomplishment, Alamogordo Public Schools would also like to recognize Ann Wichterman, who achieved National Board Certification last spring. Her success further underscores the district’s commitment to fostering professional growth and excellence among its educators. Together, Sowden and Wicterman join the ranks of four other outstanding NBCTs within Alamogordo Public Schools.

Peggy Brookins, NBCT, President and CEO of the National Board, stated, “Our work at the National Board is based on the belief that every child deserves to be taught by an accomplished teacher. When accomplished practice becomes the norm, the advantage will be significant, spreading beyond students and teachers to be felt by their communities, employers, and society at large."

The entire Alamogordo Public Schools community as well as the staff of AlamogordoTownNews.org congratulates Andie Sowden on this remarkable milestone. Her achievement not only elevates her profession but also enhances the learning experiences of her students and contributes to the broader success of our schools.

For more information about National Board Certification or to learn more about Alamogordo Public Schools’ outstanding educators, please visit https://www.alamogordoschools.org/page/national- board-certified-teachers.

A National Board Certification (NBCT) lasts for five years from the date of issuance, and teachers need to complete a Maintenance of Certification (MOC) process every five years to keep their certification active ensuring continuous improvement and the most up to date training available. 

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