About American Board
Our Story
We believe every student deserves a great teacher, and every great teacher deserves a clear path to the classroom.
For over 20 years, we’ve been a trusted leader in alternative teacher certification, helping more than 20,000 individuals become confident, classroom-ready educators. Our program is built on flexibility, affordability, and results, giving aspiring teachers the tools and support they need to succeed from day one.
20+ years
Leading alternative certification
20,000+
Teachers certified
16
States approved
Why we’re different
What sets us apart
U.S. Department of Education
American Board was established by the U.S. Department of Education to meet the need for more highly qualified teachers.
Longevity
For more than 20 years, American Board has led the way in online teacher certification, setting the standard for innovation and excellence in the field.
Reach
With more than 20,000 teachers certified in 16 states, American Board is the nation’s leading alternative teacher certification program.
Reliability
School leaders trust American Board-certified teachers and consistently choose to keep them in the classroom.
Our work beyond the classroom
Committed to education
Advocacy
We work directly with state education agencies to design certification programs tailored to their specific education goals and workforce needs.
Partnership
We strive to create stronger pathways to the classroom and better outcomes for aspiring teachers, particularly through our work with other education organizations.
Accreditation
Pursuing accreditation through AAQEP bolsters our work to expand access, increase trust, and continue raising the bar for all alternative teacher certification providers.
Who we serve
Teachers with experience
Most American Board candidates aren’t starting from scratch. They’re career changers, paraprofessionals, and veterans who already hold a bachelor’s degree and years of real-world experience, and they’re ready to put it to work in the classroom.
39
The average age of an American Board teacher, compared with 22 for a newly trained teacher fresh out of a traditional state university. Our teachers bring Professional Teaching Knowledge, subject-matter expertise, and real-world experience to the classroom.
97%
of employing principals say they plan to retain their American Board-certified teacher beyond the 3-year mark. The national average for teacher retention at that stage is only 80%.
Have questions? We’d love to help.
Our team can walk you through your state’s requirements, program options, and next steps. Reach out anytime and we’ll help you find the right path to the classroom.