PRESS RELEASE - December 16, 2025
SALISBURY, Md. — Wicomico County Public Schools (WCPS) announced that 47 additional educators have achieved National Board Certification, the teaching profession’s highest credential conferred by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. With this cohort, WCPS now counts 97 National Board‑Certified Teachers (NBCTs) districtwide, according to Dr. Nancy Phiefer, Supervisor of National Board Certification & Teacher Recruitment Programs for WCPS.
Why National Board Certification Matters
National Board Certification is a rigorous, performance‑based assessment that evaluates accomplished teaching practice against nationally recognized standards. Teachers compile evidence of student learning, submit classroom artifacts, and complete content‑knowledge assessments—demonstrating advanced practice that measurably benefits students.
Compensation Recognition
For achieving this prestigious certification, NBCT educators earn a salary increase in the state of Maryland to the tune of $10,000. Funding for the NBCT's salary increase is provided from the state as a part of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
The new and current NBCT's were recognized by Superintendent Dr. Micah Stauffer and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Rick Briggs at a NBCT Celebration program on Monday at the school district's Central Office. Check out our Facebook posts for more photos from Monday's ceremony.