If you’ve decided you would like to be a teacher in Colorado, you have a pretty straightforward process ahead of you. Colorado offers options for those who got their Bachelor’s degree both in-state and out-of-state, so whether you went to school in Colorado or are planning to move there after graduation, you can easily get your licensure.

To obtain your Initial License to teach in Colorado, you must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an approved teacher preparation program. In addition to your degree, you must also successfully take the Praxis II Subject Assessment Exam. If you have already obtained your license in another state or have completed your education in another state, you can apply for the Initial License with no further coursework. During the three years of the Initial License, the teacher will go through an approved induction program that includes supervision by a mentor as well as professional development and training.

Denver has initiated a program to attract teachers to the area by raising salaries about $8,000 to $9,000 per teacher, reflecting the largest increase in teacher salaries in the modern history of Colorado. District 11 in Colorado Springs is the oldest district and the largest in the Colorado Springs area. It offers a rich history of strong educational offerings to children. Aurora Public School District boasts the most diversity with more than 32,000 students from over 100 countries speaking over 90 languages. Jeffco Public Schools is the largest district in all of Colorado and offers "a committed school board, involved parents and a caring community that combine to provide quality education that prepares all children for a successful future."

After three years teaching in Colorado with your Initial License, you may apply for renewal if you need additional time to complete your induction program. If you have completed the induction program, you will receive a Professional License, which is renewed every five years. Renewal requirements for this license include six semester hours of college or university credit or 90 clock hours of professional development.