Steps to become a teacher in Colorado

There are various classes, tests, and abilities that must be mastered prior to seeking employment as a Colorado elementary school or secondary school teacher. The quickest way to success is to receive a BA level degree from an accredited college or university after completing high school.

1. Possess a BA level of degree from an accredited college or university in a subject that is appropriate to the field of elementary or secondary school education.
   

   Walden University Online
   Ashford University Online
   Western Governors University
   Argosy University

   * There are so many accredited colleges that offer teaching degrees, and it is very important to ensure that the college you select meets your budget and convenience. So get free information from more than one college to make sure that you are making the right choice.
2. In order to begin the application process you should have finished or at least began your teacher education program. Download your application here
3. Colorado requires you to pass the content area assessment for your certification through the PLACE or Praxis II examinations. More information about Colorado test taking.
4. You must submit a fingerprint card to the Colorado Department of Education through the Colorado federal Bureau of Investigation.
5. To obtain a Colorado Professional Teaching License, the teacher must go through an induction program that is hosted by their school district. An induction program is a series of mentorships, required trainings, and performance evaluations.
6. Upon completion of accredited Education program send the following to the Colorado Department of Education.
   • Completed application packet
   • Official Transcripts of all degrees and credits earned
   • check or money order made payable to: Colorado Department of Education
     Educator Licensing
     Colorado Department of Education
     201 E. Colfax Ave. Room 105
     Denver, Colorado 80203-1799
     (303)866-6628
     

1. For educators with advanced trainings, it is possible to apply for a Colorado Master Teaching Certificate that will add two-years of time onto the renewable Colorado Professional Teaching License.
2. Those who possess their BA in a desirable subject can apply for a Colorado Alternative Teaching License that is good for one-year of on the job trainings. At the end of the one-year trainings, this person may apply for a new teacher Colorado Provisional License that is good for the next three-years of teaching.
3. A Colorado Provisional License is required for all new teachers by the State of Colorado. After this three-year license period has passed, teachers are required to apply for a renewable Colorado Professional Teaching License.

Unlike some other states, Colorado teachers are hired directly through the school district that the teaching job is located in. Colorado has about 186 school districts, with the Denver area district being among the largest employers of teachers.