Heather Proulx Abrahamson, a 1987 graduate of Forest Lake High School, has become nationally board certified in teaching adolescent and young adults in social studies and history.Abrahamson has been teaching the past 11 years at Becker High School.
The certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards achievement required three years of study and commitment.
In the state of Minnesota, Abrahamson joins just two other social studies teachers who have obtained the national recognition.
The coursework required submitting six portfolio entries including teaching reasoning through writing, real world connections, small group discussions, large group discussions, professional development and parent and community connections.
Abrahamson had to provide verification that her teaching and own personal professional development and community connections were growing and showed exemplary efforts. She submitted videotapes as part of the verification process.
Following the submission of the portfolio, Abrahamson took a four-part, six-hour exam further verifying depth of knowledge, breadth of knowledge, professional leadership and instructional design.
Abrahamson said she remembers this experience as challenging, a great learning experience and a step that has caused her to evaluate herself in her profession and to make sure she is teaching her students essential lessons of value to follow them throughout their lives.
Abrahamson earned a B.S. degree in social studies with an emphasis in political science and a coaching license at St. Cloud State University in 1992. In 1999 she completed a masterís degree in curriculum and instruction. 2001 honored her with a Leadership in Education Excellence Award representing the Becker School District.
She is working on a second masterís degree in history and future goals including obtaining a doctorate.
Abrahamsonís hobbies include reading, movies, downhill skiing and running. She has completed both the Twin Cities Marathon and Grandmaís Marathon twice, as well as other running events.
Heather and Mike Abrahamson live in Becker. She is the daughter of Lee and Shelia Proulx of Forest Lake.
Founded 16 years ago, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan and nongovernmental organization dedicated to advancing the quality of teaching and learning. National board certification is the highest credential in the teaching profession.
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