NHS Teacher Earns National Certification

By Tanjua Damon

It is a grueling process, but Newtown High School American Government teacher Allison Zmuda has become a Nationally Certified Teacher.

Mrs Zmuda had to submit a portfolio containing multiple entries. It totaled 120 pages of writing, as well as two videos of her teaching and reflections about them. Plus she had to take a six hour test on the computer in various areas of social studies including economics, American government, US history, world history, and geography.

“It’s supposed to mean you are qualified to teach anywhere,” Mrs Zmuda said. “I’m not sure if the reality is accurate. I think you have voluntarily taken personal and professional development that it is recognized nationally is extremely rigorous.”

Since Mrs Zmuda began her career at Newtown High School seven years ago, she has not been searching in other areas for a job. But with national certification, she should be able to teach anywhere with her new credentials.

Mrs Zmuda took her test in June and was notified in November of her successful completion of the process. The Newtown Board of Education recognized her December 12 for her success.

“When you look at Allison, it is remarkable what she has done. Most people who take this on sort of take other things off the plate,” Assistant Superintendent Robert Kuklis said. “She was one of two people who was key to the Blue Ribbon. She is a phenomenal teacher.”

Mrs Zmuda told the board that the district already has things in place that are similar to what is expected for the national certification. The BEST Program first year teachers go through is an example.

“It is hard to maintain something like this. I think it is special,” Superintendent of Schools John R. Reed said. “I just wanted to thank her. I hope others will learn from her example and take the risk.”

Mrs Zmuda admits although it is a lot of work to accomplish, the end result is worth it.

“I think I was motivated by Kathy Swift and Lorrie Arsenian, who was my mentor,” she said. “You have to be good at what you do. You have to have a high level of reflection and a high quality of teaching.”

Assistant Principal Lorrie Arsenian, who also is a nationally certified teacher, mentored Mrs Zmuda during this year-long process and believes Mrs Zmuda is an excellent teacher who deserves the certification.

“I’m just so delighted. She is among the best in this district,” Ms Arsenian said. “She gives so much of herself. It’s nice to see good things come back to her.”

Mrs Zmuda’s work ethic is the only thing that made this process easy to mentor for Ms Arsenian.

“She works above and beyond the normal call of duty. Working with Allison was an easy process,” Ms Arsenian said. “I’m very proud of her. In many ways this has been one of her greatest years.”

Mrs Zmuda received her undergraduate degree from Yale University and her masters from Wesleyan University.