Legislative Authority of the Alternative Pathway The State Board of Education can allow Designated Agencies to create one-year and two-year alternative teacher programs to assist districts and BOCES that face a shortage of teachers and often struggle to find qualified persons to teach their students (State Statute 22-60.5-205 and the Educator Licensing Act Rules). Such programs shall:
Colorado River BOCES is approved to serve as Designated Agency in Colorado (State Statute 22-60.5-102 [10] and 22-60.5-205 [2]). Candidates must demonstrate that they have sufficient knowledge of the content in which they are seeking licensure prior to being accepted into the program. The program is designed to help candidates learn to teach not understand the content. Candidates must also have a job as a teacher in the area in which they are seeking their license and endorsement. An individual’s successful completion of an alternative teacher preparation program leads to a recommendation for initial licensure by the Designated Agency providing the program which allows the candidate to apply for and receive a regular teaching license. State Statute 22-60.5 was intended to address teacher shortages in public schools. Designated Agencies must serve an identified need(s) of a Colorado school district(s) or BOCES. Designated Agencies can create alternative preparation programs in numerous teacher endorsements areas. State Statute does not allow alternative licensure pathways for Specialized Service Professionals. Typical Ways District Use Alternative Licensure Program There are multiple ways in which schools and districts can use the alternative licensure pathway to aide in meeting the recruiting needs of the district.
Questions Contact the Colorado River BOCES Director of Business Services if you have questions about how this program can be employed to meet the needs of your district of school. |