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Ossining Teachers Gain National Certification

OSSINING, N.Y. – Ossining teachers Patricia Vieira and Irene Cruz-Tierney recently earned one of the highest credentials in the teaching profession.

Ossining teachers Irene Cruz-Tierney and Patricia Vieira recently received National Board Certification.

Ossining teachers Irene Cruz-Tierney and Patricia Vieira recently received National Board Certification.

Photo Credit: Photo Courtesy The Ossining School District

The Brookside Elementary School teachers earned National Board Certification in November. In order to receive the certification, teachers must meet “rigorous standards” in a process that typically takes up to three years, according to a press release. The pair had to complete 10 assessments, including portfolio entries that “combine video of the applicant in the classroom as well as examples of student work,” according to the release. 

Vieira and Cruz-Tierney both completed the process in 18 months and said they “pursued certification because they wanted to challenge themselves and improve their practice,” according to the release. The two also participated in a mentoring program through Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES.

Vieira, a first- and second-grade English-as-a-Second-Language teacher, said she was honored, and noted that the achievement became even more special because she could do it in Ossining.

“The diversity and friendly atmosphere make Ossining an ideal place to work,” Vieira said in a note to the district. “It is a pleasure collaborating with staff and learning from the many professional development opportunities.”

Cruz-Tierney also pointed to diversity as one of the reasons she enjoyed working in the Ossining School District.

“My students and families are a true representation of the American family of today,” she said in a note to the district. “Working closely with the Dual Language program, it’s amazing to see students learn two and sometimes three languages when their home language is other than English or Spanish. I'm very fortunate to have the opportunity to collaborate with very knowledgeable teachers as well.”

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