Which NBPTS Component Should You Start With?
In this video I’m sharing my opinion (based on years of coaching teachers) about the best order to tackle the National Board Certification (Initial process).
If you’re overwhelmed by all four components and wondering where to start, this step-by-step breakdown will help you plan your timeline with less stress and more success.
✅ My recommended order for NBPTS Components:
Start with Component 4 (C4): It’s the biggest “beast” of the process. You’re freshest at the start of the school year, and naturally collecting student assessments, collaborating with colleagues, and analyzing needs. September–October is the perfect time.
Next, Component 3 (C3): November–January is a great window for videotaped lessons—your students are still engaged, you’ve built strong relationships, and you can capture authentic teaching and reflection.
Then, Component 2 (C2): February–April is ideal since students are finally showing growth. Differentiated instruction comes alive as kids apply learning in deeper ways.
Finish with Component 1 (C1): Study in May–June and test before summer so you don’t lose your break to cramming.
✨ Why this order works:
C4 takes the most time to wrap your brain around—get it done first and this is the component that trains you to think like, write like, analyze like, and speak like a National Board Teacher.
C3 is easier mid-year when you know your students and you have the confidence to teach like a NBCT on video from the training you received in C4.
C2 benefits from student growth later in the year.
C1 can wait until the end since it’s a test, not a portfolio and you can sign up for this as late as the middle of June.
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Tracey Bryant Stuckey
Master NBCT Coach
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Disclaimer: Verify the latest information about the NBCT's requirements on components and eligibility on candidacy. https://www.nbpts.org/