How to Request a Professional Learning Facilitator (PLF) with the NM National Board Certified Teacher Network
(Looking for a PDF version of this process - please access a copy of the directions here!)
A Professional Learning Facilitator (PLF) is your coach within the NBCT journey. As part of your participation in the LANL Foundation National Board Certification for Local Teachers Program, you are required to work with a PLF if completing Components 2, 3, or 4** of the National Boards.
** Components 2, 3, and 4 are all portfolio style components submitted by a candidate, whereas Component 1 is an assessment completed in a testing center environment. There is a retreat offered for Component 1 and you will be able to sign up for that training in 2025.
From the New Mexico National Board Certified Teacher Network: “The NM NBCT Network encourages all candidates to obtain a Professional Learning Facilitator (PLF) to provide guidance and support for each component beyond what the Candidate Retreats offer. A PLF can work with you individually or within a small group answering questions, facilitating discussions, and giving you specific feedback on your writing for each Component and MOC.”
To request a PLF …
Go to the 2024-2025 PLF Request Form through the NM NBCT Network.
Hyperlink / URL: https://form.jotform.com/242128175132146
Complete the form with all required information (name, email, address, phone #, district, school, certificate area, areas of support, coupon code).
When selecting components for PLF support, make sure that you are selecting only the components that you plan to complete during the 2024-2025 school year and, if you are a PED scholarship recipient, check to ensure that the areas of support you are requesting match the components for which you are receiving the scholarship.
Please note that if you worked with a PLF last year and would like to continue working with that person, you can enter their name for the question: “Are you in a district candidate support program or currently working with a PLF? Provide us the name of the PLF. If you are not already connected to a PLF, please just skip this question.”
Make sure to include your Coupon Code in your request.
Entering your coupon code will ensure that your selected support services are billed directly to the LANL Foundation. If you are unsure as to your Coupon Code, please contact Paul (paul@lanlfoundation.org) before completing the PLF Request Form.
Click “submit” !
Once you submit your request, the NM-NBCT Network and LANL Foundation team will review the information you’ve entered and collaborate to ensure that you are paired with a PLF as soon as possible.
Additional Notes about PLF Support
Content Area Alignment: PLFs do not always share content areas with the candidates that they support. However, PLFs have deep knowledge of the NBPTS process and will be able to advise all candidates on preparing high quality component portfolios. For additional content support, all LANL Foundation candidates are also encouraged to make use of the 1:1 consult service offered by the NM-NBCT Network.
Grouping Strategies: One of our strategies within the LANL Foundation National Board Certification for Local Teachers Program is to group candidates according to a combination of content areas, grade bands, and region within Northern New Mexico. In that spirit, we hope that you will have the opportunity to learn within and contribute to a vibrant and diverse group.
Virtual and In Person Supports: PLFs may offer both in person and virtual versions of support during the NBPTS cycle. Make sure that you are communicating with your PLF about your learning style and availability.
Questions, comments, or concerns about this process?
Please contact Paul LeFrancois, K12 Program Coordinator, LANL Foundation at 505-428-9109 or paul@lanlfoundation.org.