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Bill

SB 217

National Board Certification Incentive Reward Program and Fund; eligibility.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jennifer Boysko

Virginia establishes financial incentive program rewarding teachers who earn or maintain National Board Certification to improve educator quality and retention.

Reported from Education and Health and rereferred to Finance and Appropriations (15-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 217

Legislative bill overview

SB 217 establishes a National Board Certification Incentive Reward Program and Fund in Virginia to provide financial incentives for teachers who obtain or maintain National Board Certification. The bill defines eligibility criteria for teachers to receive these rewards, creating a formal mechanism to recognize and compensate educators achieving this advanced professional credential.

Why is this important

National Board Certification is a rigorous, voluntary credential that teachers pursue to demonstrate advanced competency in their field. By creating financial incentives, Virginia aims to attract and retain high-performing educators, potentially improving teacher quality and student outcomes. This directly impacts classroom instruction quality and teacher workforce stability, particularly in high-need subject areas and districts.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and funding source: The bill creates a new fund and reward program but the specific funding mechanism and budgetary allocation remain unclear, raising questions about whether adequate appropriations will follow
  • Equity considerations: Incentive programs may disproportionately benefit teachers in well-resourced districts who have more access to certification preparation support and mentoring
  • Program scope and reward amounts: The bill's specifics on which teachers qualify, reward levels, and whether ongoing certification maintenance triggers continued payments need clarification to assess true costs and fairness

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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