Two More CFSD Teachers Achieve National Board Certification, Highest Honor in Teaching Profession

Catalina Foothills School District is proud to celebrate two exceptional educators who have achieved National Board Certification in 2026: Amy Hawkins (pictured left), a reading specialist for K-3 at Ventana Vista Elementary, and Kacie Casey (pictured right), a special education teacher at Manzanita Elementary.
National Board Certification represents the highest accomplishment in the teaching profession. It is a rigorous, voluntary process that goes far beyond basic licensure to identify and recognize accomplished teachers who meet high standards based on what teachers should know and be able to do. Amy and Kacie join 10 other CFSD certified staff members who have achieved this distinction.
A Special Presentation at Ventana Vista
On Tuesday morning, Jessica Jaeger from Arizona State University traveled to Ventana Vista Elementary to present Amy Hawkins with her National Board Certification, marking the first time the mentor and teacher had met in person after months of virtual collaboration.
Jaeger spoke warmly about Ms. Hawkins' approach to the certification process, noting that she was often the first person to jump in and start discussions during their group meetings. "Her positive, go-getter attitude is the same approach that she uses with her kindergarteners," Ventana Vista Principal Dr. Judi Dauman observed, highlighting the authentic connection between Amy's professional growth mindset and her teaching practice.
Recognition at Manzanita
On Friday, Kacie Casey was recognized in her classroom at Manzanita Elementary for achieving National Board Certification. With 11 years of teaching experience—the past decade spent teaching both general and special education—Kacie chose to join CFSD and Manzanita because of the district's excellent reputation and her desire for her own children to attend here in the future.
"Kacie is passionate about working with students and finds great fulfillment in helping them reach their full potential," said Manzanita Principal Rob Henikman. "Her commitment to professional excellence through National Board Certification reflects the same dedication she brings to supporting every student, every day."
A Transformative Professional Journey
The path to National Board Certification is challenging and deeply reflective. Teachers must demonstrate through a comprehensive portfolio that they meet the National Board's Five Core Propositions: teachers are committed to students and their learning; teachers know their subjects and how to teach them; teachers are responsible for managing and monitoring student learning; teachers think systematically about their practice and learn from experience; and teachers are members of learning communities.
Celebrating Excellence in CFSD
Amy Hawkins and Kacie Casey join an elite community of accomplished educators who have demonstrated their commitment to excellence in teaching. Their achievement reflects not only their individual dedication but also CFSD's commitment to supporting teacher growth and professional development.
CFSD offers an annual $1,000 stipend to teachers who achieve National Board Certification, recognizing that investing in teacher excellence directly benefits student learning.
Congratulations to Amy Hawkins and Kacie Casey on this remarkable achievement! Your commitment to excellence directly benefits every student you teach, and your leadership inspires colleagues throughout CFSD and beyond.