Six GPS educators earn National Board Certification for 2026

Gilbert Public Schools is recognizing six educators who have earned or maintained National Board Certification for the 2026 school year, a credential held by about 3% of teachers nationwide.

National Board Certification is considered the highest professional credential in education.

The process is based on the National Board’s Five Core Propositions and requires candidates to provide evidence of accomplished teaching.

Educators complete four components: a computer‑based assessment measuring content knowledge and three portfolio entries demonstrating instructional differentiation, teaching practice, learning environment, and reflective decision‑making.

The certification process can take one to five years and requires educators to show measurable impact on student learning. The program offers 25 certificate areas organized by developmental level and discipline.

With this year’s newly certified and recertified educators, the district now has 37 National Board Certified teachers and staff members.

The educators recognized this year are:

• Greg Stafford, Desert Ridge High School, physics and AP physics (maintained certification);
• Melanie Whitfield, Highland Junior High, history and social sciences and honors history and social sciences (newly certified);
• Joanna Kollpainter, Highland High School, practical applications of math, practical applications of science, and communication skills (newly certified);
• Meghan Gray, Gilbert High School, International Baccalaureate coordinator (newly certified);
• Melanie Volz, Playa Del Rey Elementary, reading specialist (maintained certification);
• Abigail Wheatfill, Gilbert District Office, instructional specialist (maintained certification).

According to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, National Board Certified Teachers positively influence student achievement.

In Gilbert Public Schools, their work supports alignment to academic standards, meaningful feedback, and measurable student growth in courses ranging from foundational literacy to honors classes, Advanced Placement physics, practical academic applications, and International Baccalaureate programs.

The district states that it remains committed to professional growth by encouraging educators to pursue national standards that strengthen teaching and learning.

The Professional Growth and Development Department offers research‑based learning opportunities for employees, with a focus on instructional practices that support student‑centered classrooms.