By Kathy Scott
Posted: Thursday, February 26, 2004 3:36 PM PST
 Nogales High School teacher George Thomson talks with some of his students. From Left are Monica Berumen and Valeria Ramirez. Thomson has been a teacher for 20 years. |
For the Nogales International
George Thomson rarely sits. But when he does, it is with a small group of students to check their understanding of government, law, or United States history.
Thomson, a social studies teacher at Nogales High School, joined an elite group of educators recently when he passed all the requirements to become nationally certified. The process, which took about 18 months, involved demonstrating teaching ability via videotapes, writing numerous essays, and passing a written test to assess content knowledge.
"It was the hardest thing I have ever done," Thomson said. "What I learned is that I have a lot to learn."
Traditionally, a teacher earns certification for the state or states in which he teaches. Each state has its own requirements and standards.
However, following a series of reports that painted a bleak picture of education nationwide, the National Board was created in 1987.
To earn certification under this organization, which allows educators to teach in almost any state, a teacher undergoes an intense period of self-reflection, mastery of high standards, and a demonstration of the ability to work in both large and small groups.
Thomson, who is completing his 20th year as an educator, received his bachelor's degree in social studies education from Arizona State University and his master's in political science from the University of Arizona.
But as a living example of what he constantly preaches to his students, he never stops learning or trying to expand his knowledge. "I decided to go for this because I wanted to prove it could be done, and I wanted to be able to become a resource for other teachers who decide to take on the challenge."
Marcelino Varona, Jr., Nogales Unified School District No. 1 assistant superintendent who facilitated the process for Thomson, said that Thomson "professes the value of education to all his students. He is one of those who deserves the definition of a master teacher."
Student Shannon Doyle, a senior in Thomson's government class, agreed. "Mr. Thomson is a very good teacher. He does more than just assign work, and he goes out of his way to help you."
In fact, it is not unusual to see groups of students meeting with Thomson after school, at night, and even on weekends. He maintains a website that allows for instant access to all his assignments, and he encourages students to constantly update their technology skills to make the best use of the Internet. In fact, he is the webmaster for the district as a whole, creating and constantly reviving the site.
NHS Principal Joan Molera said, "It is a great honor to have a nationally certified teacher at our school. I hope he is the first of many."
(Editor's Note: Kathy Scott is a freelance writer.)