Five Cape district educators earn national board certification
The Cape Henlopen School District announced five of its dedicated educators have earned national board certification, one of the most respected credentials in the teaching profession. This milestone reflects their unwavering commitment in teaching excellence and to improving overall student outcomes.
A voluntary, advanced teaching credential, national board certification includes an extensive series of performance-based assessments. The rigorous process of earning certification includes assembling teaching portfolios and student work samples, video submission of candidate teaching, and thorough analyses of the educators’ classroom teaching and student learning.
Certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards is the most respected professional certification available in education, and it provides numerous benefits to teachers, students and communities.
This year’s National Board Certified Teachers from the Cape district are Love Creek educators Joseph Rupar, math specialist, and Jessica Rodriguez and Bridgette Perrotta, fifth-grade teachers; and Milton Elementary educators Leigh Rupar, math specialist, and Hannah Pepper, first-grade teacher.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Jenny Nauman applauded the accomplishment, saying, “Achieving National Board Certification is a testament to our teachers’ dedication to professional growth and educational excellence. After having gone through this process to become nationally board certified myself, I understand how much time and dedication they each have put into this process. These educators exemplify the best of our profession, and their hard work enriches the learning experiences of every student they teach.”
Perrotta said, “For me, it was an impactful experience because it allowed me to deeply reflect on my teaching practices and refine my teaching strategies. Subsequently, my students benefited as much as I did.”
Research shows that students taught by NBCTs demonstrate stronger academic performance and benefit from enhanced classroom engagement. Certification also fosters a culture of collaboration and leadership among educators, strengthening the entire school community.
“Completing the National Board Certification was something I wanted to pursue as a way to grow professionally,” said Rupar. “This process allowed me to reflect on my teaching practices and identify areas where I could improve as an educator.”
Rodriguez highlighted the importance of having support among colleagues when going through the process. “It was challenging at times, but having colleagues that I was able to bounce ideas off of and to help keep me motivated made it easier. It wasn’t something I had thought I would accomplish, so I’m very proud of this achievement,” she said.
“The National Board Certification process is very extensive and demanding. However, it was a wonderful journey as it pushed me to examine different components of teaching, find my strengths and continue to set goals to keep improving,” said Pepper. “This comprehensive process allowed me the opportunity to unpack my teaching and dive deeper into the choices that I make when planning instruction.”
Rupar said, “Achieving National Board Certification has been a deeply rewarding affirmation of my commitment to excellence in teaching. It has not only deepened my understanding of the craft, but also strengthened my resolve to inspire and empower students every day. I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my colleagues throughout this journey, and I’m proud that Hannah and I are among the first at Milton Elementary School to achieve this recognition.”
Cape is committed to supporting teachers in pursuing advanced certifications, offering resources such as mentoring programs, professional development workshops and financial assistance for the certification process. These types of investments highlight the district’s dedication to academic excellence and lifelong learning.
