Featuring Dion Copeland, assistant principal at the Academy @ Shawnee and National Board Certified Teacher
When Dion Copeland decided to pursue National Board Certification, he didn't do it alone—and he'll tell you that’s the whole point.
Surrounded by excellence
Copeland credits the educators around him for lighting the spark. Working alongside colleagues with deep instructional expertise—including a principal who was National Board Certified—inspired him to measure his own teaching against that high standard.
What carried him through was a close-knit cohort of fellow candidates. They met regularly to share work, unpack the components and hold one another accountable. When the work got challenging, the fellowship kept him going.
The hardest part: Honest reflection
Ask Copeland about the biggest challenge, and he doesn't hesitate: looking honestly at his own practice. National Board certification requires candidates to analyze what didn't work in their classrooms—not just celebrate what did—and defend that reflection in writing.
"It’s uncomfortable, and it’s the point," Copeland said.
His advice to teachers considering certification: lean into that discomfort, start early and don't go it alone. Find your cohort, and utilize the resources around you.
Six years in: The payoff
Now in his second year as an NBCT, Copeland says the certification reshaped his career—especially his transition into school administration. His deep instructional grounding gives him credibility and confidence during coaching conversations with teachers. He leads from a place of demonstrated competency, not just theory.
Ready to take the next step?
JCPS's professional learning team offers comprehensive candidate support, component and writing guidance and support through every step of the process.
Upcoming Event: NBCT Getting Started
Date and Time: October 7 | 5:15–7:45 p.m.
Get in Touch: To learn more about timelines, candidate support and reimbursement opportunities. Email: professional.learning@jefferson.kyschools.us or (502) 485-3415.