Former Kentucky Education Commissioner Terry Holliday has been elected chairman of the National Board for Professional Teacher Standards board of directors.

Holliday succeeds former West Virginia Gov. Bob Wise, who served in the role since 2009. This news coincides with the announcement that 4,729 teachers have achieved or renewed National Board Certification – the profession’s mark of accomplished teaching. Holliday comes to the board with more than 40 years of classroom teaching and education leadership in district, state and national roles.

“Coming to the National Board is the perfect capstone to my career in education,” Holliday said. “Throughout my career, especially in my leadership roles, I’ve sought to establish higher standards for teachers because I know that yields better learning for students. The National Board for Professional Teacher Standards advances teaching and learning, and that’s been my goal since I started in this field. It’s especially meaningful to take this role on the very day that the board announces the names of close to 5,000 teachers achieving or renewing board certification.”

As Kentucky’s former commissioner of education, Holliday introduced innovative programs, led high student performance and brought national recognition to the state for its education improvement efforts. During his tenure leading the Kentucky Department of Education, Holliday led numerous national education organizations, including the National Assessment Governing Board and the Council of Chief State School Officers.

“Like Governor Wise, Dr. Holliday exemplifies the visionary leadership qualities and passion for excellence in education that fully align with the National Board’s mission. Terry is a champion of board certification and will advance the professionalization for teachers across the country,” said Peggy Brookins, a National Board Certified Teacher and president and chief executive officer of the National Board.