Alternative Teacher Candidates: What You Need to Know

The alternative teacher pathway allows districts to hire individuals to serve as a teacher while completing the necessary teacher preparation based on the Colorado Teacher Quality Standards. Alternative teacher preparation programs vary in length from 1 year to 2 years (though special education generalist candidates may take a third year, if necessary). While serving as a teacher, alternative candidates put what they learn into practice immediately.

To qualify, each candidate must:

• Hold a bachelor's or higher degree from a regionally accredited college/university;
• Be enrolled in an approved Colorado alternative teacher program; and
• Complete and submit an ALTERNATIVE TEACHER application to request either a Colorado Alternative Teacher License or an Interim Authorization issued specifically for alternative teacher preparation.

So, For Which Credential Should I Apply ?

The new alternative teacher application offers two options:

1. Alternative Teacher License: for those applicants who also demonstrate content knowledge for the subject area they will be teaching via:

• degree in the content area;
• 24 semester hours of specific coursework in the content area (as verified on an official transcript); or
• a passing score on the Colorado State Board of Education-approved PRAXIS exam.
  • Individuals wishing to apply to determine if they meet content knowledge requirements may do so prior to enrolling in a program or securing a teaching position.

  2. Interim Authorization: for those who have not yet demonstrated content knowledge in their subject area.

  • Applicants pursuing an alternative interim authorization must hold a teaching position and be enrolled in an approved Colorado alternative program.
  • Demonstration of content knowledge as outlined above will be required to complete the program.

  Important Notes:

  • Alternative licenses and alternative interim authorizations are issued in one content area only.
  • Alternative licenses are issued based on the length of program.
  • Interim authorizations are issued for one year only (and may be renewed if needed to complete a two-year program).