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Photographer: Ben SiegelRenée A. Middleton, dean of The Patton College, is elected to the executive committee of NBPTS.

Renée A. Middleton, dean of The Patton College of Education, was named to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) executive committee for a two-year term.

“I am honored and excited to join the executive committee,” said Middleton. “NBPTS has been at the forefront of high-quality teaching and learning for more than 30 years, and I look forward to working with exceptional colleagues to advance its mission.”

Established in 1987, NBPTS is a nonprofit organization seeking to advance high-quality teaching and learning. In 1989, NBPTS published “What Teachers Should Know and Be Able to Do,” articulating Five Core Propositions for Teaching that all accomplished teachers should exhibit in their quest to advance student achievement.

Perhaps the most respected professional certification program in K-12 education, NBPTS develops professional standards for accomplished teaching, creates a voluntary system to certify teachers who meet those standards, and integrates board-certified teachers into educational-reform efforts.

“NBPTS is dedicated to elevating the voices of accomplished teachers to help shape the profession and improve student achievement,” said Middleton. “Every student deserves to be taught by an accomplished teacher, and NBPTS plays an indispensable role in that.”

Middleton has served on the NBPTS Board of Directors for more than five years. Comprised of 29 members, the board includes National Board Certified Teachers and teaching professionals, higher education officials, school board leaders, and community leaders, among others.

In her tenure on the Board, Middleton has served on the Mobilization Committee (2013-2017), as co-chair of the Certification Council (2015-present), and was recently appointed to the Policy & Advocacy Committee.

Middleton received a bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing with a minor in Behavioral Sciences from Andrews University in 1981, a master’s degree in Clinical Audiology with a minor in Speech Pathology and Behavioral Sciences from The University of Tennessee in 1983, and a doctoral degree from Auburn University in 1990, with a focus on Rehabilitation Administration and a minor in Rehabilitation Counseling and Education. She became dean of The Patton College in 2006 and has spent her entire career working to ensure equity and excellence in all classrooms.

“NBPTS approaches education – and teacher education – with rigor, passion, and creativity,” said Middleton. “I have always tried to do the same and look forward to sharing my perspective with the committee.”