The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence is a bi-partisan non-profit organization dedicated through our programs to recruiting, certifying and supporting excellent teachers essential for achieving student success.
ABCTE certification is not just a test; it is a program designed to inspire career changers to enter teaching and give them a rigorous and efficient process to achieve their goals.
Did you know...
- 95% of principals rated our teachers to be as effective or more effective than their peers.
- 100% of principals surveyed would be willing to hire an ABCTE-certified teacher.
- 24% of ABCTE candidates are minorities and 32% are pursuing certification in math and science.
- Passport to Teaching is a rigorous certification program where only 40% of candidates complete the program.
- ABCTE teacher retention is 93% over the first two years compared to 84% nationwide.
Mission
The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) is committed to increasing the supply of highly qualified teachers essential for achieving student success.
Vision
ABCTE believes that all students are entitled to a quality education and an excellent teacher.
History
Founded in 2001 via a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, ABCTE addresses the need for highly qualified teachers in every classroom. We offer a flexible and cost-effective certification program designed for career changers. ABCTE opens new pathways into the classroom, helping states, districts and communities meet the needs of their students.
To meet our goals, ABCTE has developed the Passport to Teaching certification and the Teach and Inspire program. We are also developing the Distinguished Teacher certification.
Additionally, ABCTE has developed a Reading Certificate Program designed to help teachers and parents learn the proven strategies for reading instruction.