Since 1987, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards has advanced the quality of teaching and learning by developing professional standards for accomplished teaching, creating a voluntary system to certify teachers who meet those standards. For over two decades, Missouri teachers have participated in this enrichment process. Currently, no state financial assistance is available.

The department is transitioning to the comprehensive Missouri Leadership Development System with the first- and second-year mentoring program. For more background, please visit the MLDS page.  

Registration to receive a mentor is open each year from April 1 through October 31.

Need a Mentor?

With approximately 2,200 principals and 1,300 assistant principals currently serving in Missouri schools, an estimated 1,100 administrator certificates issued annually and roughly 300 new principals hired each year, the implications for teacher and student success are significant.

Leadership Academy 2024-25 39th Class

Leadership Academy is part of the Missouri Leadership Development System (MLDS) which cultivates effective school leaders who:

Facts about the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE)