CERTIFICATION OF A MATHEMATICS TEACHER AS ONE OF THE AREAS OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The article examines the issue of certification of mathematics teachers as one of the key tools for the professional development of teaching staff in the context of the modernization of the general secondary education system in Ukraine. Particular attention is paid to the impact of certification on improving the quality of mathematics education, developing the professional competence of teachers, as well as on the formation of a supportive environment and educational leadership in the context of the implementation of the Concept «New Ukrainian School». The article analyzes the process of certification of mathematics teachers in 2023–2024 and emphasizes that this process performs not only an evaluative function, but also is a powerful motivator for self-reflection, self-development, and improving the quality of educational services. Participation in certification, in particular its stages of self-assessment and study of practical experience, stimulates teachers to critically analyze their own professional activities and implement innovative teaching methods. In particular, it was analyzed that only 32–38% of mathematics teachers who participated in the certification in 2023 and 2024 successfully passed all its stages. This result is an occasion to strengthen scientific and methodological support, improve the quality of training in postgraduate pedagogical education institutions, as well as to implement flexible models of professional development that combine formal, non-formal and informal education. The article analyzes in detail the structure of certification, its legal support, the professional standard of a teacher, and the role of the Centers for Professional Development of Pedagogues. It is shown that successful certification contributes to social recognition and opens up new career and leadership prospects. Attention is paid to the experience of the Dnipro Academy of Continuing Education, which actively supports teachers in the region by conducting webinars, trainings, methodological studies, and supporting Professional Development Centers. Such activities are aimed at reducing psychological barriers to participation in certification, increasing awareness, and creating a comfortable professional environment. The article also emphasizes the importance of creating professional communities, such as the Association of Certified Pedagogues. Such organizations play a leading role in building a culture of professional support, sharing experiences and disseminating innovative practices. They serve as platforms for collective learning, increasing the prestige of the teaching profession and implementing educational leadership. The importance of improving certification training programs is emphasized, in particular, the creation of open educational resources, updating digital platforms and feedback tools. In addition, the article contains recommendations for the formation of a sustainable ecosystem of professional development support, in which public authorities, postgraduate education institutions, employers, public organizations and the pedagogical community as a whole should play an active role. It is noted that the successful functioning of such a system is a prerequisite for the implementation of state policy in the field of ensuring the quality of education, developing human capital and forming a competitive educational space.