National Board Applauds Introduction of the GREAT Teachers Act to Grow, Retain, and Elevate Accomplished Teachers in Pennsylvania’s High-Need Schools

HARRISBURG, Pa. - September 28, 2026

Proposed legislation would set up a statewide pilot grant program to help Pennsylvania schools support teachers pursuing National Board Certification.

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (National Board) today welcomed the introduction of SB 1468 / HB 2805, the GREAT (Growing, Retaining, and Elevating Accomplished Teachers) Teachers Act, in the Pennsylvania General Assembly.

The bill, led by Senator Devlin Robinson, Senator Vincent Hughes, Representative Joseph Ciresi, and Representative Kristin Marcell, would create the National Board Certified Teacher High-Need District Pilot Grant Program within the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). The program aims to increase the number of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) working in the Commonwealth's high-need schools.

National Board Certification is the teaching profession's highest mark of accomplished practice. The GREAT Teachers Act would invest in both teachers who pursue Board Certification and the schools that support them (See fact sheet). This will give Pennsylvania a practical way to strengthen teaching and keep experienced educators in the classrooms that need them most.

"Every student deserves an accomplished teacher, and every teacher deserves the support to become one," said Peggy Brookins, NBCT, President and CEO of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. "The GREAT Teachers Act recognizes that growing and keeping great teachers must be done with intention. By helping schools cover certification costs, build strong candidate support programs, and keep National Board Certified Teachers in high-need classrooms, this bill invests in what matters most for student learning. We are grateful to Senators Robinson and Hughes and Representatives Ciresi and Marcell for their leadership and look forward to working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to see it enacted."

Dr. Marilyn Pryle, the 2019-2021 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, applauded the Pennsylvania legislature for the proposal. "National Board Certification was the single best professional development of my career. It made me reflect deeply on my practice and see real evidence of what worked for my students - it bonded me to the classroom like nothing else. Every student in Pennsylvania deserves an accomplished teacher, and every teacher the chance to become one."

Key provisions of the GREAT Teachers Act include:

Grants would also be spread across the state to ensure geographic diversity.

The GREAT Teachers Act would take effect 60 days after it becomes law. The National Board urges Pennsylvania legislators to support the bill. It stands ready to serve as a resource to lawmakers, the PDE, and school leaders as the bill moves forward.

About the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

Founded in 1987, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the quality of teaching and learning outcomes by establishing professional standards and recognizing accomplished educators through National Board Certification. Learn more at www.nbpts.org.