CMS National Board Support Program launches first ever Mentor Program

Posted on: 10/24/24

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools National Board Support Program launched its first ever Mentor Program at an informational meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 22. Approximately 60 mentors and 100 National Board Certification candidates will be matched to work closely together as candidates work their way through the certification process.

National Board Certification is the most respected professional certification available in K-12 education. Educators must be able to display a deep understanding of their students, content, data and assessments. They must also show that they participate in learning communities and provide evidence on ongoing reflection and continuous learning.

Christina Roth, professional development specialist, said this additional layer of support will continue to increase chances of candidate success.

“I’m excited for the collaboration and camaraderie,” said Roth. “We’re launching candidates with their own ‘professional development sidekick’ to support them in whatever capacity they need.”

While pairing mentors and mentees, Roth said her team took into consideration certification content areas, proximity to one another and grade spans. 

Kat Koppel-Dobbs, Exceptional Children intensive behavior interventionist coordinator, and Ashley Filardi, Exceptional Children teacher at Huntersville Elementary School, had previously worked together when Filardi’s school needed support as well as when Koppel-Dobbs led a crisis prevention course.

Now, Filardi is able to act as Koppel-Dobbs’ mentor and thought partner as she works with her through obtaining her certification. 

“This is a great opportunity for growth,” said Filardi. “And I can learn a lot alongside Kat.”

“It’s going to be helpful having that guidance as the process can be overwhelming,” said Koppel-Dobbs. “It’s going to be super helpful to have (Ashley) as a cheerleader and sounding board throughout. And hopefully one day I’ll be able to pay it forward.”