Two PSJA ISD teachers earn prestigious National Board Candidacy Certification

PHARR – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) is proud to announce that two teachers have earned the prestigious and highly rigorous National Board Candidacy Certification. Congratulations to Yvonne Chamblin of PSJA T. Jefferson T-STEM Early College High School and Dr. Mercedes Yanez of Marcia Garza Elementary.  

Chamblin and Yañez are two of only 26 educators across the Rio Grande Valley to hold this certification. This prestigious achievement represents the completion of a rigorous two-year program consisting of four modules, made possible through a partnership with Stanford University. 

Yvonne Chamblin shares why earning this certification is so meaningful to her.  

“I'm very excited to be a National Board teacher. To know that I achieved it over a two-year process is an amazing feeling. Honestly, it feels like Christmas, but it also feels like a new beginning,” said Chamblin. “I finished a chapter and I'm on to the next one. I think it's going to show in my classroom. I think the students are going to see that my teaching practices have been refined.” 

This initiative reflects the district’s continued dedication to supporting and rewarding teaching excellence. To qualify, teachers must have at least three years of professional experience, hold a valid state teaching certificate, and commit to the rigorous program. 

For Dr. Mercedes Yañez the opportunity to earn this certification is a goal she has considered for many years.  

“It was something I had wanted to do ever since I started teaching more than 20 years ago, but I never had the opportunity to pursue it,” said Dr. Yañez. “When this opportunity came, I realized how much support and reflection it would involve, which motivated me to commit. I know that as I grow in my profession, I become more effective for my students.” 

This National Board Candidacy initiative enhances classroom leadership and contributes to student achievement across the district. 

                                                                  ###