Colorado

Colorado Teacher Licensure

To obtain a Colorado license in any subject area individuals must complete a teacher licensure program. Programs are available at the graduate and undergraduate level. There are also alternative programs and teacher in residence licensing programs available that allow individuals to teach full time while completing teacher licensure requirements. To qualify for an alternative program individuals must have at least 30 specific semester hours in the desired subject area and pass the appropriate exam.

Substitute Teaching
Substitute teaching is encouraged as it allows individuals to network while gaining an understanding of various schools, districts and subject areas. To obtain a substitute license in Colorado individuals are required to have completed a bachelor's degree and pass a background check.

Paraeducators
Paraeducators support classroom teachers, usually at the elementary level, in a variety of subject areas. Colorado paraeducators are required to hold an associate's degree or pass the Work Keys Assessment. The Work Keys Assessment is a general knowledge exam and is offered by the school districts prior to employment. Individuals interested in opportunities as paraeducators should contact a local school district for additional information.

Testing Requirements
Colorado requires one content knowledge exam for the desired subject. Colorado accepts the PRAXIS II exam in five subject areas including elementary education, English, math, science, and social studies. The PRAXIS II exam is offered through Educational Testing Service (ETS). Individuals can register and download study materials for the PRAXIS II exam at www.ets.org. All other subject areas require the PLACE exam. The PLACE exam is offered through National Evaluation Systems. Individuals can register and download study materials for the PLACE exam at http://www.place.nesinc.com/.

State Needs
Colorado is currently experiencing a need for teachers in a variety of subject areas, especially math, science, special education and linguistically diverse education.

Key State Links:

Colorado Commission on Higher Education

Colorado Department of Education

PLACE Testing

PRAXIS Testing