Alternative Licensure
Alternative Licensure
The alternative teacher pathway is intended to allow districts to hire candidates with specific content knowledge and who hold an undergraduate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education and need teacher training based on the Colorado Teacher Quality Standards. Alternative teacher preparation programs can vary in length from 1 year to 3 years. While serving as a teacher, alternative candidates put what they learn into practice immediately.
It is important you familiarize yourself with the below expectations and timelines for alternative pathway applicants, as the alternative licensure process is quite different from requirements for other types of credentials. Most notably:
- You must complete, at minimum, steps 1, 2, and 3 as listed below before you can submit your application to begin the alternative pathway. It is not necessary to fully meet the other requirements for an alternative license in order to apply.
- Documents required for step 4 may be uploaded to your application at a later date (within 1 year of your original application date) once you have obtained a teaching position and enrolled in your alternative program.
Steps in Alternative Licensure Process
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Step 1 - Complete Degree
Complete a four-year bachelor's degree at a regionally accredited college or university -
Step 2 - Background Check
Pass CBI and FBI criminal history background checks -
Step 3 - Choose Endorsement Area and Demonstrate Competence
Determine the content area you want to teach and if you are qualified. -
Step 4 - Obtain Position and Agreement
Obtain:
- A classroom teaching position that matches the endorsement area you selected in Step 3
- An agreement with a state-approved designated agency that offers an approved alternative teacher preparation program
- A statement of assurance (SOA) completed and signed by you, your district/employer and your designated agency (CSU Pueblo)
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Apply
Once you have completed at least steps 1, 2, and 3 above you can apply for your alternative licensure.
