Discussed is a comptency-based program (CBP) for certifying teachers of gifted and talented students in North Carolina by 1977. It is explained that the CBP offers an alternative to required graduate study and involves a visiting team's evaluation of the teacher's knowledge of the gifted and ability to develop and implement a comprehensive instructional plan. Described are criteria for evaluating teacher knowledge (including teaching methods and selection of instructional materials), ability to develop instructional plans (including performance objectives and evaluation procedures), and performance (including student involvement and use of materials). A major portion of the document consists of the following appendixes: a description of state program areas for exceptional children; a checklist of desirable teacher characteristics, classroom environmental factors, and student attitudes; examples of instructional strategies such as problem solving and brainstorming; a sample instructional plan for a creative writing course; a bibliography of approximately 25 books; and sample evaluation report forms for use by the visitation committee and by students. (LH)