Sec. 13a.07.08.03. Eligibility Criteria

A. In order to be eligible to receive financial aid to pursue initial NBPTS certification, a candidate shall:

(1) Have completed 3 years of successful teaching on a Maryland professional certificate at one or more early childhood, elementary, middle, or secondary public schools;

(2) Hold a valid Maryland professional certificate;

(3) Affirm voluntary participation in the NBPTS certification process;

(4) Comply with the deadlines as specified by the Department and NBPTS; and

(5) Demonstrate teaching practice in designated fields as identified by the NBPTS.

B. In order to be eligible to receive financial aid to pursue renewal of the NBPTS certificate, a candidate shall:

(1) Hold a valid Maryland professional certificate; and

(2) Comply with the deadlines as specified by the Department and NBPTS.

C. In order to be eligible to receive financial aid to pursue one retake, a candidate shall:

(1) Hold a valid Maryland professional certificate; and

(2) Pursue the NBPTS certificate within the next assessment cycle immediately following the cycle in which the candidate does not achieve National Board certification.

D. A local school system may establish additional criteria for eligibility.