Cy-Fair ISD Honors Nine Educators for Earning National Board Certification, the ‘Gold Standard’ of Teaching
In a celebration of educational excellence, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD (CFISD) formally recognized nine educators during the April 14 Board of Trustees meeting for achieving National Board Certification (NBC)—one of the most respected professional credentials in the teaching profession.
Often referred to as the “gold standard” of teaching, National Board Certification is a voluntary, rigorous certification process that evaluates teaching expertise through performance-based, peer-reviewed assessments. Teachers who earn this distinction are recognized not only for their deep content knowledge but also for their ability to meet diverse student needs, reflect on their practice, and foster learning environments that promote growth and achievement.
“We are extremely proud of our newest National Board Certified teachers. They exemplify the best qualities of a CFISD teacher leading students down The Path to Amazing!” said Dr. Ashley Clayburn, assistant superintendent of district improvement and accountability.
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CFISD’s 2025 National Board Certified Teachers
The following educators were honored for joining the ranks of fewer than 125,000 teachers nationwide who have achieved NBC status:
- Alicia Montes, Cypress Woods High School
- Haydee Penn, Sprague Middle School
- William Spaulding, Cypress Ranch High School
- Sara Tovarez, Cypress Lakes High School
- Julian Dunn, Langham Creek High School
- Katelyn Wisnowski, Cypress Creek High School
- Carole Lueb, Post Elementary School
- Michaela Stots, Horne Elementary School
- Ruby Chapman, Matzke Elementary School
What is National Board Certification?
Offered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, National Board Certification is designed to develop, recognize, and retain accomplished educators. To become certified, pre-K–12 educators must complete four rigorous components:
- Content Knowledge – Demonstrating expertise in subject matter through computer-based assessments.
- Differentiation in Instruction – Showcasing the ability to tailor instruction to meet diverse learner needs.
- Teaching Practice and Learning Environment – Providing classroom video and analysis to demonstrate effective teaching.
- Effective and Reflective Practitioner – Submitting evidence of professional development, reflection, and student impact.
The process can take up to three years to complete, requiring significant time, effort, and reflection. Certification is valid for five years, after which educators may pursue renewal to maintain their status.
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Why It Matters to CFISD
CFISD’s commitment to professional development is reflected in its growing number of National Board Certified Teachers. With over 13,000 teachers across the district, the achievement of these nine educators stands out and underscores the district’s emphasis on instructional excellence.
National Board Certified Teachers are associated with improved student outcomes, enhanced instructional practices, and leadership in school improvement efforts. Their expertise benefits students, colleagues, and the wider CFISD learning community.
Supporting Student Growth Through Teaching Excellence
For parents and families in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, the presence of National Board Certified Teachers offers added confidence in the quality of instruction taking place in classrooms. NBC teachers serve as mentors, instructional leaders, and champions of equity and learning, helping CFISD maintain its standing as one of Texas’s top-performing school districts.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
