Do you want to teach in Colorado? You’re in the right place. If you’re just starting in your career or making a switch from another state or country, becoming a teacher in the Centennial State doesn’t have to be intimidating. 

Colorado’s schools are actively seeking passionate, qualified educators, making now the perfect time to step into the classroom. From bustling cities to mountain towns, opportunities are available throughout the state. 

In this guide, we’ll break down five simple steps to follow so you can get licensed and stand in front of the classroom. From obtaining the proper credentials to finding your first job, we’ve got everything you need and want to start your teaching journey. 

Step 1: Meet Colorado’s Education Requirements for Teachers

According to the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), all teaching licenses in the state require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited 4-year college or university. If you’re moving to Colorado, ensure your degree satisfies the state’s academic standards. 

Advantages of an Education Degree

While your degree doesn’t have to be in education, it does provide a more direct path to the classroom. Having a degree in education with a major related to the subject or grade level you want to teach (such as math, science, or early childhood education) may be a strong advantage during the hiring process and when taking subject-area exams. 

Alternative Licensure Pathway

If you’ve already earned your degree in another field, there’s no need to fret. Colorado offers an alternative licensure pathway. This option allows you to begin teaching while completing your training. As you operate under this temporary license to teach, you’ll be under supervision, receive mentorship, and complete required coursework.

Integrated Teacher Preparation Programs 

On the other hand, if you’re just beginning your teaching journey, you may want to consider a bachelor’s program that includes a teacher preparation component. This 2-for-1 program helps you meet both the degree and licensure requirements at the same time. It's a streamlined approach that can help you save time and simplify your journey.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

A teacher preparation program equips aspiring educators with the necessary practical skills, classroom experience, foundational knowledge, and confidence to be successful educators both in and outside the classroom. These programs can either be baked into an undergraduate or graduate degree program or can be offered through the alternative licensure route.

Teacher preparation programs typically cover topics such as classroom management, teaching methods, psychology, and training on diversity, equity, and inclusion. A significant focus of these programs is the student teaching experience. During this phase, future teachers engage in hands-on classroom experience under the supervision of an experienced mentor teacher.

When selecting a program, verify that it is on the CDE’s list of approved educator preparation programs to make sure it meets Colorado’s standards.

Step 3: Take the Praxis and Other Certification Tests

To ensure you’ve mastered subject-specific content and instructional skills to be effective in the classroom, you must take and pass the required certification exams. Your preparation program or the CDE can confirm of the following exams are required for your specific licensure area: 

• Praxis Subject Assessments are used to evaluate your knowledge in specific subjects, such as English, special education, or history. You must pass the exam that aligns with the subject and/or grade level you plan to teach.

• Praxis CORE is the equivalent of a basic skills test. Skills often tested include reading, writing, and math. Some programs will waive this requirement if you meet minimum ACT or SAT scores.

• The Educative Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA) is a performance-based assessment that focuses on practical experience, as opposed to written exams. These exams test lesson planning, instruction, student engagement, and analysis of student work. 

Step 4: Submit Your Colorado Teaching License Application

After you’ve completed your education, preparation program, and testing requirements, you can finally apply for your teaching license. First-time applicants must apply for an Initial License, which is valid for 3 years and can be renewed or upgraded later. To apply, visit the CDE’s online application portal to submit: 

• Official college transcripts

• Proof of completing a state-approved teacher preparation program

• Passing test scores 

• Background check (fingerprints included) conducted by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation

• A completed application + application fee

Be sure to allow enough time to request the requested documents, undergo a background check, and complete the application, as processing can take several weeks. Once your application is submitted and approved, you’ll receive your teaching license and be officially qualified to work in Colorado public schools!

Step 5: Get Hired to Teach

With your Colorado teaching license in hand, landing a job in a school that fits your skills, goals, and values is the last and final step. There are a few ways to find a job that’s right for you:

• Visit individual school district websites

• Attend education job fairs or networking events

• Work with an education staffing platform like Zen Educate

Colorado has nearly 200 school districts, 2,000 public schools, and 400 private schools, making it overwhelming to find the right teaching job. Luckily, Zen Educate simplifies the process. Regardless of whether you’re looking for a full-time or part-time certified teaching position, Zen Educate can assist you in navigating the Colorado job market with less stress and more support.

You’re 5 Steps Away from Becoming a Teacher in Colorado

Becoming a Colorado teacher may seem like a daunting process, but with this step-by-step roadmap and guidance from Zen Educate, it’s entirely within your reach. No matter your background or level of experience, there’s a pathway for you to step into the classroom.  Sign up today for free.