Peggy Brookins NBCT President & Chief Executive Officer | National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration has increased funding for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certification Incentive Program in the 2025–26 state budget. The new budget allocates an additional $30 million to support teachers seeking National Board Certification, a credential recognized across the profession.
Peggy Brookins, NBCT, president and CEO of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, said: “This additional funding reinforces California’s commitment to accomplished teaching and student learning. Since the program’s inception in 2021, more than 800 California teachers in high-priority schools have earned National Board Certification. With the funding secured in this budget, thousands more students will gain access to an accomplished teacher who has met the highest professional standards.”
The expanded investment allows California to continue offering incentives aimed at attracting and retaining qualified educators in schools facing staffing challenges. Grants of up to $25,000 are available for National Board Certified Teachers who commit to five years of teaching in high-priority schools. Teachers starting the certification process while working in these schools can receive grants of $2,500. Additionally, a $495 grant is available for certified teachers beginning Maintenance of Certification while teaching at a high-priority school.
The timeline for distributing these grants has also been extended, signaling that this program remains a key part of California’s strategy to address ongoing teacher shortages and promote educational equity.
Local leaders expressed support for the renewed investment. Michael de la Torre, NBCT, program coordinator for The Support Network—a partnership between LAUSD and UTLA—and member of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing stated: “Through my many years supporting Los Angeles teachers pursuing National Board Certification, I have witnessed again and again the career-changing growth that educators experience throughout their certification journey.”
Dr. Morgan Pellettera, NBCT, who works with candidates in San Bernardino and Riverside counties, added: “When teachers earn National Board Certification, it doesn’t just impact them and their students; it transforms entire school communities. This additional funding will have a tremendous impact in schools across the state, especially those in low-income communities that most need to grow and retain excellent teachers.”
Applications for the 2025–26 NBPTS Candidate Subsidy open November 3, 2025 and close January 9, 2026 at 4:00 pm. Further details are available on the California Department of Education website.
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers what is considered one of the highest credentials in teaching within the United States. The certification was developed by educators and is supported by research showing its positive effect on student learning outcomes and school improvement efforts.
Alerts Sign-up