WEST BEND — West Bend West High School science teacher Mitch Ziesemer recently earned his National Board Certified Teacher NBCT in Science for Adolescence and Young Adult students.
The credential is “the most respected professional certification available in education and provides numerous benefits to teachers, students and schools,” according to the NBCT website. The certification was designed to develop, retain, and recognize accomplished teachers and aid improvements in schools nationwide.
Ziesemer, who teaches physics, chemistry, astronomy and meteorology at West High School, had to complete the four components — content knowledge, differentiation in instruction, teaching practice, and effective and reflective practitioner — to achieve the recognition. His chosen area of focus in science was physics.
“As a science educator I value hands on and interpersonal learning and lab experiences,” said Ziesemer. “I’m delighted that the NBCT process allowed and encouraged me to continue to refine and reflect on my best practice for all of my students.”
In Wisconsin, only 69 educators with a focus area in science have the NBCT credential, with Ziesemer being one of two in Washington County.
‘I’m eternally grateful for the support from my colleagues in the science department, school administration, and my family; wife, Danielle, and three grade school children, Sophia, Everett, and Elliott,” Ziesemer said. “It is through the grace of God that I can best use my skills and talents to help students be the best scientist that they can be.”
In addition to teaching science at West, Ziesemer is also a cross country coach and serves on the Pastoral Council for Saint Frances Cabrini and Saint Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic parishes.