Great reporters are developed, not discovered.
Great court reporters aren't born — they're developed through excellent training, disciplined practice, and a commitment to continual improvement. That belief is the foundation of the National Academy of Court Reporting, and it drives every decision Tracy Thompson makes as its founder and lead educator.
Tracy Thompson's career spans every dimension of the profession. She has served in state court, freelance reporting, and for 24 years as an Official United States District Court Reporter for the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma — one of the most demanding environments in the field.
"Writing realtime in federal court on a daily basis gave her firsthand insight into the level of skill, accuracy, professionalism, and preparation required to succeed."
That daily, high-stakes realtime work in federal proceedings is not a credential listed on a resumé — it is a lived education that shaped Tracy's understanding of exactly what students must be prepared to do when they enter the profession. It is the reason every element of the NACR curriculum reflects the real demands of practice, not a simplified or theoretical version of the work.
After years of mentoring students and working reporters alongside her own active career, Tracy recognized a gap: a court reporting school that pairs rigorous instruction with practical, real-world training — one that prepares students not just for certification examinations, but for long-term success in a profession built on accuracy, integrity, and service.
Why NACR was built differently
The National Academy of Court Reporting was founded on the belief that students deserve an education that reflects the realities of today's profession — one that goes beyond passing an exam and prepares graduates to thrive in the field.
Education built on high standards and genuine support
Every course, assignment, and learning experience at NACR has been designed to support a single mission: graduates who are genuinely prepared for the demands of the profession. Tracy believes both halves of the equation must be present — rigorous expectations and real mentorship.
-
Disciplined Practice Consistent, deliberate effort is the single most important ingredient in a reporter's development.
-
Quality Instruction Curriculum grounded in real-world federal practice, not simplified or theoretical frameworks.
-
Mentorship & Support High standards require genuine guidance — students are supported every step of the way.
-
Continuous Improvement Excellence is not achieved overnight — it is earned through perseverance and lifelong learning.
"Excellence is not achieved overnight. It is built through disciplined practice, quality instruction, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning."
— Tracy Thompson, Founder, NACR
Professional Certifications & Credentials
Tracy Thompson holds six professional certifications across court reporting and captioning — each representing a demonstrated standard of accuracy, professionalism, and specialized expertise recognized nationally.
Learn from someone who has lived the work
The National Academy of Court Reporting exists because Tracy Thompson believes every student deserves the same quality of preparation she brought to her own four decades in the profession. If you are ready to build a career on accuracy, integrity, and excellence, NACR is ready for you.