C.R.S. § 22-60.5-101 Short title
22-60.5-101. Short title. This article shall be known and may be cited as the "Colorado Educator Licensing Act of 1991".
Colorado Educator Licensing Act
C.R.S. tit. 22, art. 60.5
in effectC.R.S. § 22-60.5-102 Definitions
22-60.5-102. Definitions. As used in this article 60.5, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Accepted institution of higher education" means an institution of higher education that offers at least the standard bachelor's degree and is recognized by one of the following regional associations: The western association of schools and colleges; northwest association of schools, colleges, and universities; north central association of colleges and schools; New England association of schools and colleges; southern association of colleges and schools; or middle states association of colleges and secondary schools.
(2) Repealed.
(3) "Administrator" means any person who administers, directs, or supervises the education instructional program, or a portion thereof, in any school, school district, or nonpublic school in the state and who is not the chief executive officer or an assistant chief executive officer of such school.
(3.5) "Affiliated bachelor's degree program" means the bachelor's degree that is identified in the instruction plan submitted by the teacher apprenticeship program sponsor.
(4) "Alternative teacher contract" means a contract, as described in section 22-60.5-207, entered into for an alternative teacher position by a person who holds an alternative teacher license pursuant to section 22-60.5-201 (1)(a), or an interim authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (7), and a school district, board of cooperative services, or nonpublic school that provides, or charter school that provides or participates in, a one-year or two-year alternative teacher program.
(5) "Alternative teacher program" means a one-year or two-year program of study and training for teacher preparation, as described in section 22-60.5-205, for a person of demonstrated knowledge and ability who holds an alternative teacher license pursuant to section 22-60.5-201 (1)(a), or an interim authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (7). An "alternative teacher program" must meet the standards of and obtain the approval of the state board of education and, upon completion, lead to a recommendation for licensure by the designated agency providing the alternative teacher program.
(6) "Alternative teacher support team" means a team established by the designated agency for each holder of an alternative teacher license, or an interim authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (7), employed as an alternative teacher. At a minimum, each alternative teacher support team shall be composed of the alternative teacher's mentor teacher and the principal and a representative of an accepted institution of higher education.
(6.5) "Apprentice mentor teacher" means a professionally licensed teacher in good standing, designated by the apprenticeship program sponsor, who provides exemplary modeling and counseling to a teacher apprentice, who is trained in the apprenticeship model, and who takes responsibility for the training, mentoring, and progress of the teacher apprentice.
(7) "Approved induction program" means a program of continuing professional development for initial licensees that meets the standards of the state board of education and that upon completion leads to a recommendation for licensure by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing such induction program.
(8) (a) "Approved program of preparation" means a program of study for preparation that is approved by the department pursuant to section 22-60.5-121 and that upon completion leads to a recommendation for licensure.
that upon completion leads to a recommendation for licensure by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing such induction program.
(8) (a) "Approved program of preparation" means a program of study for preparation that is approved by the department pursuant to section 22-60.5-121 and that upon completion leads to a recommendation for licensure.
(b) Every "approved program of preparation" for principals or administrators shall include proficiencies in the principles of business management and budgeting practices and in the analysis of student assessment data and its use in planning for student instruction.
(8.5) "Board of cooperative services" or "BOCES" has the same meaning as set forth in section 22-5-103.
(9) "Board of education" means the governing body authorized by law to administer the affairs of any school district in the state except junior and community college districts. "Board of education" includes a board of cooperative services organized pursuant to article 5 of this title.
(9.1) "Certificate of apprenticeship completion" means a certificate that has been issued by the United States department of labor or the apprenticeship agency that certifies a teacher apprentice has satisfactorily gained the skills, abilities, and competencies, and completed the requirements of an apprenticeship.
(9.3) "Charter school" means a charter school authorized by a school district pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of this title 22 or a charter school authorized by the state charter school institute pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of this title 22.
(9.5) "Department" means the department of education, created in section 24-1-115, C.R.S.
(10) "Designated agency" means a school district or districts, a board of cooperative services, an accepted institution of higher education, a nonprofit organization, a charter school, the institute, a nonpublic school, or any combination thereof, that is responsible for the organization, management, and operation of an approved alternative teacher program or an approved alternative principal program.
(11) "Endorsement" means the designation on a license or an authorization of grade level or developmental level, subject matter, or service specialization in accordance with the preparation, training, and experience of the holder of such license or authorization.
(11.5) "Institute" means the state charter school institute created pursuant to section 22-30.5-503.
(12) "Mentor administrator" means any administrator who is designated by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing an approved induction program for initial administrator licensees and who has demonstrated outstanding administrative skills and school leadership and can provide exemplary modeling and counseling to initial administrator licensees participating in an approved induction program.
(13) "Mentor principal" means any principal who is designated by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing an approved induction program for initial principal licensees and who has demonstrated outstanding principal skills and school leadership and can provide exemplary modeling and counseling to initial principal licensees participating in an approved induction program.
(14) "Mentor special services provider" means any special services provider who is designated by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing an approved induction program for initial special services licensees and who has demonstrated outstanding special services provider skills and school leadership and can provide exemplary modeling and counseling to initial special services licensees participating in an approved induction program.
(15) "Mentor teacher" means:
r districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing an approved induction program for initial special services licensees and who has demonstrated outstanding special services provider skills and school leadership and can provide exemplary modeling and counseling to initial special services licensees participating in an approved induction program.
(15) "Mentor teacher" means:
(a) A teacher designated by the school district, charter school, or nonpublic school employing an alternative teacher and who has demonstrated outstanding teaching and school leadership and can provide exemplary modeling and counseling to alternative teachers participating in an alternative teacher program; or
(b) Any teacher who is designated by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing an approved induction program for initial teacher licensees and who has demonstrated outstanding teaching and school leadership and can provide exemplary modeling and counseling to initial teacher licensees participating in an approved induction program.
(15.5) "Nonpublic school" means any independent or parochial school that provides a basic academic education, as defined in section 22-33-104 (2)(b). Neither the state board of education nor any local school board of education has jurisdiction over the internal affairs of any independent or parochial school in Colorado.
(16) "Principal" means any person who is employed as the chief executive officer or an assistant chief executive officer of any school or nonpublic school in the state and who administers, directs, or supervises the education instructional program in such school or nonpublic school.
(16.5) "Rural school district" means a school district in Colorado that the department of education determines is rural, based on the geographic size of the school district and the distance of the school district from the nearest large, urbanized area, and the total student enrollment is six thousand five hundred students or fewer students.
(17) "School" means any of the public schools of the state.
(18) "School district" means any school district organized and existing pursuant to law, but it does not include junior or community college districts. "School district" includes a board of cooperative services organized pursuant to article 5 of this title.
(19) "Special services provider" means any person other than a teacher, principal, or administrator who is employed by any school district, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school to provide professional services to students in direct support of the education instructional program.
(20) "State board of education" or "state board" means the state board of education established by section 1 of article IX of the state constitution.
(21) "Teacher" means any person employed to instruct students in any school or nonpublic school in the state.
(22) "Teacher apprentice" means a student who is registered and enrolled in an approved teacher degree apprenticeship program, is enrolled in an affiliated bachelor's degree program from an accredited institution, and has obtained a Colorado teacher apprenticeship authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111. A "teacher apprentice" can also mean a student enrolled in an approved teacher degree apprenticeship program who is registered before August 7, 2023.
(23) "Teacher apprenticeship program sponsor" means an entity responsible for the registration, administration, and operation of a teacher degree apprenticeship program that has been approved by the United States department of labor or the state apprenticeship agency and has been authorized by the state department of education. A teacher apprenticeship program sponsor can also mean an entity serving as a sponsor for an apprenticeship program that is registered before August 7, 2023.
tration, administration, and operation of a teacher degree apprenticeship program that has been approved by the United States department of labor or the state apprenticeship agency and has been authorized by the state department of education. A teacher apprenticeship program sponsor can also mean an entity serving as a sponsor for an apprenticeship program that is registered before August 7, 2023.
(24) "Teacher degree apprenticeship program" means a teacher education program containing all of the elements of a competency-based, registered apprenticeship program required by the United States department of labor as evidenced by approval by the United States department of labor office of apprenticeship or a state apprenticeship agency and approved by the state department of education and sponsored by a teacher apprenticeship program sponsor or a teacher apprenticeship program approved prior to August 7, 2023.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-103 Applicants - licenses - authorizations - submittal of form and fingerprints - failure to comply constitutes grounds for denial
22-60.5-103. Applicants - licenses - authorizations - submittal of form and fingerprints - failure to comply constitutes grounds for denial. (1) (a) Prior to submitting to the department of education an application for any license specified in section 22-60.5-201, 22-60.5-210, 22-60.5-301, or 22-60.5-306 or for any authorization specified in section 22-60.5-111, each applicant shall submit to the Colorado bureau of investigation a complete set of fingerprints of such applicant, taken by a qualified law enforcement agency, an authorized employee of a school district or board of cooperative services, or any third party approved by the Colorado bureau of investigation, unless the applicant previously submitted a complete set of his or her fingerprints to the department of education or the Colorado bureau of investigation in connection with an application for a license or authorization specified in this article 60.5 or, if the applicant has continuously resided in Colorado since submitting fingerprints to the bureau, has previously submitted fingerprints pursuant to section 22-2-119.3. At the request of a school district, a law enforcement agency that has fingerprinting equipment that meets the federal bureau of investigation image quality standards shall take the fingerprints of an applicant pursuant to this section if an approved third-party vendor is not operating within twenty miles of the school district within the law enforcement agency's jurisdiction. A school district employee or board of cooperative services employee may use any fingerprinting equipment that meets the federal bureau of investigation image quality standards. If an approved third party takes the person's fingerprints, the fingerprints may be electronically captured using Colorado bureau of investigation-approved livescan equipment. Third-party vendors shall not keep the applicant information for more than thirty days unless requested to do so by the applicant. The applicant shall submit the fingerprints for the purpose of obtaining a fingerprint-based criminal history record check through the Colorado bureau of investigation and the federal bureau of investigation to determine whether the applicant for licensure or authorization has a criminal history. The applicant shall pay to the Colorado bureau of investigation the fee established by the bureau for conducting the criminal history record check. Upon completion of the criminal history record check, the bureau shall forward the results to the department of education.
(b) Any person applying for any license specified in section 22-60.5-201, 22-60.5-210, 22-60.5-301, or 22-60.5-306 or for any authorization specified in section 22-60.5-111 or for renewal of such license or authorization or for any master certificate specified in section 22-60.5-202, 22-60.5-211, 22-60.5-302, or 22-60.5-307 shall submit to the department of education at the time of application a completed form as specified in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) (a) On a form provided by the department of education, an applicant shall certify, under penalty of perjury, either:
(I) That he has never been convicted of committing any felony or misdemeanor, but not including any misdemeanor traffic offense or traffic infraction; or
(II) That he has been convicted of committing any felony or misdemeanor, but not including any misdemeanor traffic offense or traffic infraction. Such certification shall specify such felony or misdemeanor for which convicted, the date of such conviction, and the court entering the judgment of conviction.
(b) For the purposes of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2), a person is deemed to have been convicted of committing a felony or misdemeanor if such person has been convicted under the laws of any other state, the United States, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States of an unlawful act which, if committed within this state, would have been a felony or misdemeanor.
ion.
(b) For the purposes of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2), a person is deemed to have been convicted of committing a felony or misdemeanor if such person has been convicted under the laws of any other state, the United States, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States of an unlawful act which, if committed within this state, would have been a felony or misdemeanor.
(c) For the purposes of this section, "convicted" or "conviction" means a conviction by a jury verdict or by entry of a verdict or acceptance of a guilty plea by a court and shall also include the forfeiture of any bail, bond, or other security deposited to secure the appearance by a person charged with having committed a felony or misdemeanor, the payment of a fine, a plea of nolo contendere, the imposition of a deferred or suspended sentence by the court, or an agreement for a deferred prosecution approved by the court.
(3) In addition to any other requirements established by law for the issuance or renewal of any license specified in section 22-60.5-201, 22-60.5-210, 22-60.5-301, or 22-60.5-306 or for any authorization specified in section 22-60.5-111, the submittal of fingerprints and forms pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1) of this section shall be a prerequisite to the issuance or renewal of such license or authorization by the department of education. Said department shall not issue or renew any license specified in section 22-60.5-201, 22-60.5-210, 22-60.5-301, or 22-60.5-306 or any authorization specified in section 22-60.5-111 to any person making application who does not comply with the provisions of subsection (1) of this section.
(4) To facilitate a criminal history record check conducted pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the department of education may conduct a search on the ICON system at the state judicial department, as defined in section 24-33.5-102 (3), C.R.S., and may use any other available source of criminal history information that the department of education determines is appropriate, including obtaining records from any law enforcement agency and juvenile delinquency records pursuant to section 19-1-304, C.R.S. The department of education may use the specified sources to determine any crime or crimes for which the person was arrested or charged and the disposition of any criminal charges.
(5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2006, p. 925, § 5, effective July 1, 2006.)
(5.5) For the purposes of this section, the department of education is a criminal justice agency as that term is defined in section 24-72-302 (3), C.R.S. Law enforcement agencies shall cooperate with the department of education when the department conducts a criminal history record check pursuant to this section.
(6) (a) When the department of education finds probable cause to believe that an educator licensed or authorized pursuant to this article 60.5 has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, other than a misdemeanor traffic offense or traffic infraction, subsequent to the educator's licensure or authorization, the department of education shall require the educator to submit a complete set of the educator's fingerprints taken by a qualified law enforcement agency, an authorized employee of the licensee's employing school district or board of cooperative services, or any third party approved by the Colorado bureau of investigation. At the request of a school district, a law enforcement agency that has fingerprinting equipment that meets the federal bureau of investigation image quality standards shall take the fingerprints of an educator pursuant to this section if an approved third-party vendor is not operating within twenty miles of the school district within the law enforcement agency's jurisdiction. A school district or board of cooperative services employee may use any fingerprinting equipment that meets the federal bureau of investigation image quality standards
ge quality standards shall take the fingerprints of an educator pursuant to this section if an approved third-party vendor is not operating within twenty miles of the school district within the law enforcement agency's jurisdiction. A school district or board of cooperative services employee may use any fingerprinting equipment that meets the federal bureau of investigation image quality standards. If an approved third party takes the person's fingerprints, the fingerprints may be electronically captured using Colorado bureau of investigation-approved livescan equipment. Third-party vendors shall not keep the educator's information for more than thirty days unless requested to do so by the educator. The educator shall submit the fingerprints within thirty days after receipt of the written request for fingerprints from the department of education. The department of education shall deny, suspend, annul, or revoke, pursuant to section 22-60.5-107 (2.5), the educator's license or authorization if he or she fails to submit fingerprints on a timely basis pursuant to this subsection (6).
(b) The department of education shall forward fingerprints submitted pursuant to this subsection (6) to the Colorado bureau of investigation for the purpose of obtaining a fingerprint-based criminal history record check through the Colorado bureau of investigation and the federal bureau of investigation, to determine whether the educator has a criminal history. In addition, the department of education may use the records of the ICON system at the state judicial department, as defined in section 24-33.5-102 (3), C.R.S., or any other source available, including obtaining records from any law enforcement agency and juvenile delinquent records pursuant to section 19-1-304, C.R.S., to ascertain whether the educator has been convicted of an offense described in section 22-60.5-107 (2), (2.5), or (2.6).
(7) When the results of a fingerprint-based criminal history record check of an applicant or a search of any other source of criminal history information performed pursuant to this section reveals a record of arrest without a disposition, the department of education shall require that applicant to submit to a name-based judicial record check, as defined in section 22-2-119.3 (6)(d).
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-104 Applicants for initial licensure - statement of completion of approved program of preparation
22-60.5-104. Applicants for initial licensure - statement of completion of approved program of preparation. (1) Each applicant for any initial license issued pursuant to the provisions of this article may be required to submit a statement from the designated recommending official of the accepted institution of higher education. Such statement shall certify that the applicant has completed the approved program of preparation appropriate to the initial license being applied for in a satisfactory manner and is in good standing. Such statement shall not be required for the renewal of such license.
(2) If an applicant for an initial principal license or an initial administrator license is required to submit a statement from the designated recommending official of an accepted institution of higher education pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, he shall be provided with an opportunity to submit statements from two or more such designated recommending officials at different accepted institutions of higher education, each of which statements certifies partial completion of an approved program of preparation appropriate to the initial license being applied for in a satisfactory manner. Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the state board of education, the department of education shall provide a procedure through which such statements of partial completion of an approved program may be combined to certify regular completion of an approved program of preparation. The combination of such statements shall result in a combined approved program of preparation when it is, in the judgment of the department of education, at least the equivalent of the regular approved program of preparation at any one of the accepted institutions of higher education of attendance. Any reference in this article to completion of an approved program shall be deemed to include reference to partial completion of two or more approved programs combined pursuant to this subsection (2).
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-105 Applicants for licensure or authorization - moral qualifications
22-60.5-105. Applicants for licensure or authorization - moral qualifications. In determining the moral qualifications of applicants for licensure or authorization, the department of education shall be governed by the provisions of section 24-5-101, C.R.S.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-106 Endorsement of license - effect - rules
22-60.5-106. Endorsement of license - effect - rules. (1) The department of education is authorized to cause a license to be endorsed. Any such endorsement shall identify the grade, age, or developmental level or levels, subject matter area or areas, or other specialization appropriate to an applicant's preparation, training, or experience. Any endorsement made pursuant to this section shall be subject to review at the expiration of the license so endorsed. The state board of education may establish, by rule and regulation, appropriate endorsements and the criteria for such endorsements.
(2) Notwithstanding the discretionary authority granted in subsection (1) of this section, the department of education shall issue a special education teacher endorsement to an applicant who completes coursework and assessments, as specified by rule of the state board of education, in a program in special education offered by an accepted institution of higher education, or an alternative teacher preparation program for special education offered by a designated agency, which program has been approved by the state board of education.
(3) The department of education shall collaborate with the department of higher education to create a mentor teacher endorsement for teachers who provide mentoring and oversight for teacher candidates or novice teachers in accordance with the standards adopted by the department of higher education pursuant to section 23-78-105 (3). The state board of education by rule shall establish the criteria for the endorsement, which must, at a minimum, include successfully completing training provided by an educator preparation program, as defined in section 23-78-103, and at least one full school year of successful experience serving as a mentor teacher for a teacher candidate who is participating in clinical practice or for a novice teacher, as defined in section 23-78-103.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-107 Grounds for denying, annulling, suspending, or revoking license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization - definitions
22-60.5-107. Grounds for denying, annulling, suspending, or revoking license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization - definitions. (1) If any person obtains or attempts to obtain any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization pursuant to the provisions of this article through misrepresentation or fraud or through misleading information or an untruthful statement submitted or offered with the intent to misrepresent or mislead or to conceal the truth, such license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization may be annulled or denied by the department of education in the manner prescribed in section 22-60.5-108.
(2) Any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization may be denied, annulled, suspended, or revoked in the manner prescribed in section 22-60.5-108, notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1) of this section:
(a) When the holder has been determined to be mentally incompetent by a court of competent jurisdiction and a court has entered, pursuant to part 3 or part 4 of article 14 of title 15 or section 27-65-109 (4) or 27-65-127, C.R.S., an order specifically finding that the mental incompetency is of such a degree that the holder is incapable of continuing to perform his or her job; except that the license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization held by a person who has been determined to be mentally incompetent and for whom such an order has been entered shall be revoked or suspended by operation of law without a hearing, notwithstanding the provisions of section 22-60.5-108;
(b) When the applicant or holder is convicted of, pleads nolo contendere to, or receives a deferred sentence for a violation of any one of the following offenses:
(I) Misdemeanor sexual assault as described in section 18-3-402, C.R.S.;
(II) Misdemeanor unlawful sexual conduct as described in section 18-3-404, C.R.S.;
(III) Misdemeanor sexual assault on a client by a psychotherapist as described in section 18-3-405.5, C.R.S.;
(IV) Misdemeanor child abuse as described in section 18-6-401, C.R.S.;
(V) Repealed.
(VI) A misdemeanor, the underlying factual basis of which has been found by the court on the record to involve domestic violence, as defined in section 18-6-800.3 (1), C.R.S., and the conviction is a second or subsequent conviction for the same offense;
(VII) Contributing to the delinquency of a minor as described in section 18-6-701, C.R.S.;
(VII.5) A misdemeanor committed under the laws of the United States, another state, a municipality of another state, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, the elements of which are substantially similar to sexual exploitation of children as described in section 18-6-403 (3)(b.5), C.R.S.; or
(VIII) A crime under the laws of the United States, another state, a municipality of this state or another state, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, the elements of which are substantially similar to one of the offenses described in subparagraphs (I) to (VII) of this paragraph (b);
(c) When the applicant or holder is found guilty of or upon the court's acceptance of a guilty plea or a plea of nolo contendere to a misdemeanor violation of any law of this state or another state, any municipality of this state or another state, or the United States or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States involving the illegal sale of controlled substances, as defined in section 18-18-102 (5), C.R.S.;
is found guilty of or upon the court's acceptance of a guilty plea or a plea of nolo contendere to a misdemeanor violation of any law of this state or another state, any municipality of this state or another state, or the United States or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States involving the illegal sale of controlled substances, as defined in section 18-18-102 (5), C.R.S.;
(d) When the applicant or holder is found guilty of a felony, other than a felony described in subsection (2.5) or (2.6) of this section, or upon the court's acceptance of a guilty plea or a plea of nolo contendere to a felony, other than a felony described in subsection (2.5) or (2.6) of this section, in this state or, under the laws of any other state, the United States, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, of a crime which, if committed within this state, would be a felony, other than a felony described in subsection (2.5) or (2.6) of this section, when the commission of said felony, in the judgment of the state board of education, renders the applicant or holder unfit to perform the services authorized by his or her license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization;
(e) When the applicant or holder has received a disposition or an adjudication for an offense involving what would constitute a physical assault, a battery, or a drug-related offense if committed by an adult and the offense was committed within the ten years preceding the date of application for a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization pursuant to this article;
(f) When the applicant or holder has forfeited any bail, bond, or other security deposited to secure the appearance by the applicant or holder who is charged with having committed a felony or misdemeanor, has paid a fine, has entered a plea of nolo contendere, or has received a deferred or suspended sentence imposed by the court for any offense described in subparagraph (I) or (II) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2.5) of this section or in subsection (2.6) of this section.
(2.5) (a) A license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization shall be denied, annulled, suspended, or revoked in the manner prescribed in section 22-60.5-108, notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1) of this section to the contrary, in the following circumstances:
(I) When the applicant or holder is convicted of one of the following offenses:
(A) Felony child abuse, as specified in section 18-6-401, C.R.S.;
(B) A crime of violence, as defined in section 18-1.3-406, C.R.S.;
(C) A felony offense involving unlawful sexual behavior, as defined in section 16-22-102 (9), C.R.S.;
(D) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this subsection (2.5), a felony, the underlying factual basis of which has been found by the court on the record to include an act of domestic violence, as defined in section 18-6-800.3, C.R.S.;
(E) A felony offense in another state, the United States, or territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, the elements of which are substantially similar to the elements of one of the offenses described in sub-subparagraphs (A) to (D) of this subparagraph (I);
(II) When the applicant or holder is convicted of indecent exposure, as described in section 18-7-302, C.R.S., or of a crime under the laws of another state, a municipality of this or another state, the United States, or a territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, the elements of which are substantially similar to the offense of indecent exposure described in this subparagraph (II);
(III) When the applicant or holder has received a disposition or an adjudication for an offense that would constitute felony unlawful sexual behavior, as defined in section 16-22-102 (9), C.R.S., if committed by an adult; or
ory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, the elements of which are substantially similar to the offense of indecent exposure described in this subparagraph (II);
(III) When the applicant or holder has received a disposition or an adjudication for an offense that would constitute felony unlawful sexual behavior, as defined in section 16-22-102 (9), C.R.S., if committed by an adult; or
(IV) When the applicant or holder fails to submit fingerprints on a timely basis after receipt of the written request from the department of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-103 (6)(a).
(b) For purposes of this subsection (2.5), "convicted" or "conviction" means a conviction by a jury verdict or by entry of a verdict or acceptance of a guilty plea or a plea of nolo contendere by a court.
(c) The grounds for mandatory denial, annulment, suspension, or revocation of a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization pursuant to sub-subparagraph (D) of subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2.5) shall only apply for a period of five years following the date the offense was committed, provided the applicant or holder has successfully completed any domestic violence treatment required by the court.
(2.6) (a) In addition to the offenses described in subsection (2.5) of this section, the state board of education shall deny, annul, suspend, or revoke a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization if the applicant for or holder of the license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization is convicted of a felony drug offense described in part 4 of article 18 of title 18, committed on or after August 25, 2012, or is convicted of an offense under the laws of another state, the United States, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, committed on or after June 11, 2021, the elements of which are substantially similar to a felony drug offense described in part 4 of article 18 of title 18. The requirement that the state board of education deny, annul, suspend, or revoke a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization shall only apply for a period of five years following the date the offense was committed.
(b) This subsection (2.6) does not limit the authority of the state board of education to deny, annul, suspend, or revoke a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization if the applicant or holder is convicted of a felony drug offense described in part 4 of article 18 of title 18, committed prior to August 25, 2012, or is convicted of an offense under the laws of another state, the United States, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, committed prior to June 11, 2021, the elements of which are substantially similar to a felony drug offense described in part 4 of article 18 of title 18.
y drug offense described in part 4 of article 18 of title 18, committed prior to August 25, 2012, or is convicted of an offense under the laws of another state, the United States, or any territory subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, committed prior to June 11, 2021, the elements of which are substantially similar to a felony drug offense described in part 4 of article 18 of title 18.
(c) As used in this subsection (2.6), "convicted" or "conviction" means a conviction by a jury verdict or by entry of a verdict or acceptance of a guilty plea or a plea of nolo contendere by a court.
(2.7) Notwithstanding any other provision of subsection (2.5) of this section to the contrary, if the state board determines a person who held a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization prior to June 6, 1991, has been convicted of an offense described in subsection (2.5) of this section, the state board may annul, suspend, or revoke a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization in the manner prescribed in section 22-60.5-108, unless the holder was previously afforded the rights set forth in section 22-60.5-108 with respect to the offense and the holder received or retained his or her license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization as a result.
(3) A certified copy of the judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction of a conviction, the acceptance of a guilty plea, a plea of nolo contendere, or a deferred sentence shall be conclusive evidence for the purposes of paragraphs (b) and (c) of subsection (2) of this section. A certified copy of the judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction of a conviction or the acceptance of a guilty plea shall be conclusive evidence for the purposes of subsections (2.5) and (2.6) of this section. Upon receipt of a certified copy of the judgment, the department of education may take immediate action to deny, annul, or suspend any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization without a hearing, notwithstanding the provisions of section 22-60.5-108. The department of education may revoke a suspended license based on a violation of paragraph (b) or (c) of subsection (2) of this section and shall revoke a suspended license based on a violation of subsection (2.5) or (2.6) of this section without a hearing and without any further action, after the exhaustion of all appeals, if any, or after the time for seeking an appeal has elapsed, and upon the entry of a final judgment.
(4) (a) The department of education may deny, annul, suspend, or revoke any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization if the state board finds and determines that the applicant or holder thereof is professionally incompetent or guilty of unethical behavior.
(b) The state board of education shall promulgate appropriate rules defining the standards of unethical behavior and professional incompetency. Unethical behavior must include conduct involving a sexual act between an applicant or holder and a student, including a student who is eighteen years of age or older, regardless of whether the student consented to the sexual act.
y of unethical behavior.
(b) The state board of education shall promulgate appropriate rules defining the standards of unethical behavior and professional incompetency. Unethical behavior must include conduct involving a sexual act between an applicant or holder and a student, including a student who is eighteen years of age or older, regardless of whether the student consented to the sexual act.
(c) For purposes of this subsection (4), unless the context otherwise requires:
(I) "Sexual act" means sexual contact, sexual intrusion, or sexual penetration as those terms are defined in section 18-3-401.
(II) "Student" means any person enrolled at the school where the employee is employed at the time of the unethical behavior, but does not include another student.
(5) The state board of education shall promulgate appropriate rules defining the standards of unethical behavior and professional incompetency.
(6) The state board of education may promulgate, pursuant to the provisions of the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., such rules as it may deem necessary to establish procedures for the filing and investigation of complaints alleging conduct that, if true, may establish grounds for denying, annulling, revoking, or suspending an educator license or certificate.
(7) In the manner prescribed in section 22-60.5-108, the department of education may suspend a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization when the holder, without good cause, resigns or abandons his or her contracted position with a school district without giving the written notice required by section 22-63-202 (2)(b).
(8) When an applicant's or holder's license is denied, annulled, suspended, or revoked pursuant to subsection (2.5), (2.6), or (4) of this section, the department of education shall post the name of the person and basis for the denial, annulment, suspension, or revocation on its website.
(9) In furtherance of its duties under this section and section 22-60.5-103, the department of education may conduct a search on the ICON system at the state judicial department, as defined in section 24-33.5-102 (3), C.R.S., and may use any other available source of criminal history information the department of education deems appropriate, including obtaining records from any law enforcement agency and juvenile delinquency records pursuant to section 19-1-304, C.R.S.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-108 Procedure - denial, suspension, annulment, or revocation - license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization
22-60.5-108. Procedure - denial, suspension, annulment, or revocation - license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization. (1) (a) Procedures for the denial, suspension, revocation, or annulment of any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization shall be in accordance with the provisions of sections 24-4-102 to 24-4-107, C.R.S.; except that, where judicial review is pending or the time in which to seek judicial review has not elapsed, the department of education may take emergency action relating to the annulment, suspension, or revocation of any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization, and the expiration date of any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization shall not be extended, even though judicial review is pending or the time for seeking such review has not elapsed.
(b) If the department of education seeks to contact a crime victim for the purposes of a licensure hearing, the department shall contact the victim's advocate in the law enforcement agency or district attorney's office of the jurisdiction in which the offense was prosecuted or the victim's advocate in the attorney general's office, if applicable. The victim's advocate shall make reasonable efforts to contact the victim, advise the victim of the hearing, and invite the victim to participate in the licensure hearing. A victim shall not be required to participate in a licensure hearing.
(2) If the department of education denies, annuls, suspends, or revokes a license, authorization, or endorsement pursuant to this section, the department, as soon as practicable, shall notify the board of education of the employing school district or the governing board of the employing charter school or institute charter school, if any, of the action taken.
(3) When the department of education denies, annuls, suspends, or revokes a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization because the applicant or holder was convicted of felony child abuse or a felony offense involving unlawful sexual behavior pursuant to section 22-60.5-107 (2.5), the department shall release the name of that individual to the public.
(4) When the department of education denies, annuls, or revokes a license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization because the applicant or holder was convicted of felony child abuse or a felony offense involving unlawful sexual behavior pursuant to section 22-60.5-107 (2.5), the department shall enter into a settlement agreement with that individual that prohibits the individual from ever teaching at a public or nonpublic school in the United States.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-109 Hearing commissioner - duties
22-60.5-109. Hearing commissioner - duties. The state board of education is authorized to appoint a hearing commissioner, who may preside at hearings on the denial, annulment, suspension, or revocation of any license, certificate, endorsement, or authorization. When so appointed, he shall reduce his findings to written form and submit them to the state board of education, and he shall not participate in the deliberations of said board.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-109.5 Inactive status of licenses
22-60.5-109.5. Inactive status of licenses. (1) Any person who holds a professional license issued pursuant to this article may choose to convert the professional license to inactive status by notifying the department of education in writing and simultaneously transferring, either in person or by first-class mail, the professional license to the department of education. While on inactive status, the expiration date of a professional license shall be suspended. When the professional license is returned to active status, it shall be valid for the period remaining on the license as of the date the license holder assumed inactive professional license status. While on inactive professional license status, the person shall be deemed to not hold a professional license.
(2) (a) A person may return a professional license to active status at any time by notifying the department of education in writing, either in person or by first-class mail, and simultaneously requesting the return of his or her professional license from the department of education. Upon receipt of notice to return to active status, the department of education shall reissue the professional license with a new expiration date reflecting the period remaining on the professional license as of the date the license holder converted to inactive professional license status. The department shall return the reissued license to the license holder within thirty days after receiving notice to return to active status. Upon receipt of the professional license, the license holder shall resume active status.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this subsection (2), if a person converts his or her professional license to inactive status because the person is called into the active military service of the United States or the state of Colorado, when the person notifies the department of education of his or her intent to return the professional license to active status, the person may include with the notice a copy of the official notice of honorable discharge or release from active service. Upon receipt of the notice to return to active status and the evidence of honorable discharge or release, the department of education shall reissue the professional license with a new expiration date reflecting a period equal to the period remaining on the professional license as of the date the license holder converted to inactive professional license status plus the period during which the person was in active military service.
(3) Any person who is on inactive status pursuant to this section may, but is not required to, complete professional development activities while on inactive status. Any professional development activities completed while on inactive status shall apply to renewal of the person's professional license after the person returns to active status, so long as:
(a) The person submits to the department of education evidence of completion of the professional development activities;
(b) The professional development activities meet the criteria specified by the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-110 (3); and
(c) The professional development activities are completed within the five years preceding the date on which the professional license will expire after it is returned to active status.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-110 Renewal of licenses
22-60.5-110. Renewal of licenses. (1) Any license shall expire as prescribed in section 22-60.5-201, 22-60.5-210, 22-60.5-301, or 22-60.5-306, subject to the provisions of section 24-4-104 (7), C.R.S., when applicable.
(2) Any initial license may be renewed upon submitting an application for renewal, payment of the statutory fee, and evidence of satisfying any requirements established by rule and regulation of the state board of education.
(3) (a) A licensee may renew his or her professional license by submitting an application for renewal, paying the fee established by the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-112, and providing the affidavit of satisfactory completion of ongoing professional development as described in paragraph (a.5) of this subsection (3). A licensee need not be employed as a professional educator during all or any portion of the term for which his or her professional educator license is valid. Employment as a professional educator shall not constitute a requirement for renewal of a professional license. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (e) of this subsection (3), the professional development activities completed by an applicant for license renewal shall apply equally to renewal of any professional educator license or endorsement held by the applicant.
(a.5) A licensee who seeks renewal of his or her professional license shall sign and submit with the renewal application an affidavit in which the licensee affirms under oath that he or she satisfactorily completed the ongoing professional development activities specified in the affidavit; that the activities were completed within the term of the professional license; and that, to the best of the licensee's knowledge, the activities meet the requirements of this section and rules adopted by the state board of education implementing this section. The department may accept a licensee's affidavit of satisfactory completion of ongoing professional development as proof of completion of the specified professional development activities without further verification.
(b) A professional licensee shall complete the ongoing professional development within the period of time for which the professional license is valid. The professional development may include, but need not be limited to, in-service education programs, including training in preventing, identifying, and responding to child sexual abuse and assault; behavioral health training that is culturally responsive and trauma- and evidence-informed; and laws and practices relating to the education of students with disabilities in the classroom, including, but not limited to, child find and inclusive learning environments; college or university credit from an accepted institution of higher education or a community, technical, or local district college; educational travel that meets the requirements specified in subsection (3)(d) of this section; involvement in school reform; service as a mentor teacher for teacher candidates participating in clinical practice or for novice teachers, as defined in section 23-78-103; internships; ongoing professional development training and experiences; and teacher externships pursuant to section 8-83-602.5. The state board of education, by rule, may establish minimum criteria for professional development; except that the criteria must not:
(I) Specify any particular type of professional development activity as a requirement or partial requirement for license renewal, except as provided in subsection (3)(b.7) or (3)(f) of this section;
(II) Require completion of more than six credit hours or more than ninety total clock hours of activities during the term of any professional license;
(III) Prescribe a schedule for completion of professional development activity during the term of any professional license; or
(IV) Require prior approval or supervision of professional development activities.
(3)(b.7) or (3)(f) of this section;
(II) Require completion of more than six credit hours or more than ninety total clock hours of activities during the term of any professional license;
(III) Prescribe a schedule for completion of professional development activity during the term of any professional license; or
(IV) Require prior approval or supervision of professional development activities.
(b.5) In adopting minimum criteria for professional development activities, the state board, by rule, may require all or a portion of the professional development activities to be related to increasing the license holder's competence in his or her existing or potential endorsement area; increasing the professional licensee's skills and competence in delivery of instruction in his or her existing or potential endorsement area; the teaching of literacy; increasing awareness and knowledge of behavioral health concerns, responses, and strategies; or increasing awareness of laws and practices relating to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to child find and inclusive learning environments.
(b.7) (I) Except as provided in subsection (3)(f) of this section for renewal of a professional teacher license, in selecting professional development activities for renewal of a special services, principal, or administrator license, in addition to the other requirements set forth in this section, the special services, principal, or administrator licensee shall complete a minimum of ten clock hours of professional development hours required during the term of any special services, principal, or administrator license in professional development activities relating to increasing awareness of laws and practices relating to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to child find and inclusive learning environments.
(II) A licensee who has less than three years left in the license renewal period on June 30, 2020, has until the end of the next applicable renewal period to complete the requirements established in subsection (3)(b.7)(I) of this section and may submit classes and activities completed within five years prior to June 30, 2020, to satisfy the requirements of subsection (3)(b.7)(I) of this section.
(III) Nothing in subsection (3)(b.7)(I) of this section prohibits a licensee from applying a single professional development course or ability to one or more content or hourly requirements established pursuant to this section or by rule of the state board of education.
(c) In selecting professional development activities for the renewal of a professional license pursuant to this section, each licensee shall choose those activities that will aid the licensee in meeting the standards for a professional educator, including but not limited to the following goals:
(I) Knowledge of subject matter content and learning, including knowledge and application of standards-based education pursuant to part 10 of article 7 of this title;
(II) Effective use of assessments in planning for instructional delivery and in individualizing student instruction;
(III) Effective teaching of the democratic ideal;
(IV) Recognition, appreciation, and support for ethnic, cultural, gender, economic, and human diversity to provide fair and equitable treatment and consideration for all;
(V) Effective communication with students, colleagues, parents, and the community;
(VI) Effective modeling of appropriate behaviors to ensure quality learning experiences for students and for colleagues;
(VII) Effective leadership to ensure a school community that is committed to and focused on learning;
(VIII) Consistently ethical behavior and creation of an environment that encourages and develops responsibility, ethics, and citizenship in self and others;
(IX) Achievement as a continuous learner who encourages and supports personal and professional development of self and others;
colleagues;
(VII) Effective leadership to ensure a school community that is committed to and focused on learning;
(VIII) Consistently ethical behavior and creation of an environment that encourages and develops responsibility, ethics, and citizenship in self and others;
(IX) Achievement as a continuous learner who encourages and supports personal and professional development of self and others;
(X) Effective organization and management of human and financial resources to create a safe and effective working and learning environment;
(XI) Awareness of warning signs of dangerous behavior in youth and situations that present a threat to the health and safety of students and knowledge of the community resources available to enhance the health and safety of students and the school community, youth mental health, safe de-escalation of crisis situations, recognition of signs of poor mental health and substance use, and support of students. Training provided pursuant to this subsection (3)(c)(XI) must be provided using culturally responsive and trauma- and evidence-based practices; and
(XII) Awareness of laws and practices relating to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to child find and inclusive learning environments.
(d) To be accepted as a professional development activity, educational travel shall be applicable to the endorsement area of the professional licensee's license, as demonstrated by the professional licensee.
(e) In selecting professional development activities for renewal of a professional principal license, the professional licensee shall select activities that are specific to improving his or her skills as a principal. In addition, if the school district in which the professional licensee is employed has identified, pursuant to section 22-9-106, specific areas in which he or she needs improvement or, pursuant to section 22-32-109 (1)(jj), specific professional development programs to assist the professional licensee in improving his or her skills as a principal, the professional licensee shall complete activities in those identified areas or shall complete those specific programs. In reviewing the professional licensee's application for license renewal, the department shall deny the application for renewal if the professional licensee does not comply with the requirements specified in this paragraph (e).
(f) (I) In selecting professional development activities for renewal of a professional teacher license only, in addition to the other requirements set forth in this section, except for those set forth for special services, principal, or administrator licenses in subsection (3)(b.7) of this section, the professional teacher licensee shall complete a minimum of ten clock hours of the professional development hours required during the term of any professional license in training relating to:
(A) Behavioral health training that is culturally responsive and trauma- and evidence-informed; and
(B) Increasing awareness of laws and practices relating to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to child find and inclusive learning environments.
(II) The ten clock hours required pursuant to subsection (3)(f)(I) of this section may be obtained through any combination of courses related to subsection (3)(f)(I) of this section, so long as at least one of the required clock hours is related to behavioral health training that is culturally responsive and trauma- and evidence-informed and one of the required clock hours is related to increasing awareness of laws and practices relating to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to child find and inclusive learning environments.
ction, so long as at least one of the required clock hours is related to behavioral health training that is culturally responsive and trauma- and evidence-informed and one of the required clock hours is related to increasing awareness of laws and practices relating to educating students with disabilities in the classroom, including but not limited to child find and inclusive learning environments.
(III) A professional teacher licensee who has less than three years left in the license renewal period on June 30, 2020, has until the end of the next applicable renewal period to complete the requirements established in subsection (3)(f)(I) of this section and may submit classes and activities completed within five years prior to June 30, 2020, to satisfy the requirements of subsection (3)(f)(I) of this section.
(IV) Nothing in subsection (3)(f)(I) of this section prohibits a professional teacher licensee from applying a single professional development course or activity to one or more content or hourly requirements established pursuant to this section or by rule of the state board of education.
(V) The behavioral health training required pursuant to subsection (3)(f)(I) of this section may include programs such as:
(A) Mental health first aid specific to youth and teens;
(B) Staff development training modules concerning how to prevent teen suicide;
(C) Interconnected systems framework for positive behavioral interventions and supports and mental health;
(D) Training approved or provided by the school district where the teacher is employed;
(E) Training concerning students with behavioral concerns or disabilities;
(F) Training modules concerning child traumatic stress; and
(G) Any other program or training that meets the requirements of this subsection (3)(f).
(4) Any applicant whose application for renewal of any license has been denied may appeal to the state board of education. If the state board of education finds that the applicant has met the criteria established by this section and by rule and regulation of the state board of education, the renewal of the license shall be approved by said board.
(5) Any person whose professional license or master certificate is not renewed may reinstate his or her professional license or master certificate by submitting to the department of education such information or other evidence as may be necessary to cure the defect that resulted in nonrenewal of the professional license or master certificate and by paying the reinstatement fee set by the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-112. Such curative information or evidence includes but is not limited to evidence of completion of professional development requirements, as specified in subsection (3) of this section, where the license or master certificate is not renewed because of failure to complete such requirements. Prior to reinstatement, any licensee whose professional license or master certificate is not renewed shall be deemed to not hold a professional license or master certificate. No person shall be required to demonstrate professional competencies in order to reinstate a professional license or master certificate.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-111 Authorization - types - applicants' qualifications - rules
22-60.5-111. Authorization - types - applicants' qualifications - rules. (1) Pursuant to the rules of the state board of education, the department of education may issue the authorizations specified in this section to persons of good moral character who meet the qualifications prescribed by this section and by the rules of the state board of education.
(2) Adjunct instructor authorization. (a) An adjunct instructor authorization certifies that a person is a specialist or an expert in a content area, although the person has not received formal training in education. A school district or charter school may employ a person who has an adjunct instructor authorization to provide students with highly specialized academic enrichment that is supportive of required content areas, to address recruiting challenges, and to establish a diverse workforce. The department of education may issue an adjunct instructor authorization to a person who applies to the department, providing such information as may be required by rule of the state board of education, including, at a minimum, documentation demonstrating the following:
(I) The applicant possesses outstanding talent or demonstrates specific abilities and knowledge in a particular area of specialization;
(II) A school district board of education or superintendent or the principal of a charter school has requested the applicant's services and requires the applicant's services;
(III) The potential employing school district or charter school has documented evidence of the applicant's outstanding talent or specific abilities and particular knowledge of the area of specialization; and
(IV) The applicant has been employed for at least five years in the area of specialization or holds a bachelor's degree or higher degree in the area of specialization.
(b) An adjunct instructor authorization is valid for three years. The department of education may renew an adjunct instructor authorization for succeeding three-year periods at the employing school district's or charter school's request. To request renewal, the employing school district or charter school, at a minimum, shall submit to the department of education documented evidence of continuing need within the school district or charter school for the adjunct instructor's services.
(c) A person who holds an adjunct instructor authorization may be employed under the authorization only by the school district or charter school that initially requested the person's services pursuant to subsection (2)(a)(II) of this section. A person who holds an adjunct instructor authorization and is employed by a school district may teach only under the general supervision of a licensed professional teacher. A school district or a charter school shall not employ a person who holds an adjunct instructor authorization as a full-time teacher. Notwithstanding this subsection (2)(c), a rural school district may employ a person who holds an adjunct instructor authorization as a full-time teacher only if there are no qualified, licensed applicants for the position.
(3) Special services intern authorization. (a) The department of education may issue an intern authorization to an applicant who holds at least a bachelor's degree from an accepted institution of higher education and who is enrolled in an approved program of preparation for a special services provider that requires completion of an internship. A person employed under an intern authorization shall work under the supervision of a person who holds a professional special services provider license. A school district may pay a person who is employed under an intern authorization. An intern authorization is valid for one academic year and may not be renewed.
preparation for a special services provider that requires completion of an internship. A person employed under an intern authorization shall work under the supervision of a person who holds a professional special services provider license. A school district may pay a person who is employed under an intern authorization. An intern authorization is valid for one academic year and may not be renewed.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (3)(a) of this section to the contrary, the department of education may renew an intern authorization for one academic year if the special services intern is employed by a school district or board of cooperative services and the intern has not completed the approved program of preparation for a special services provider due to unforseen circumstances or hardship.
(4) Emergency authorization. (a) The department may issue an emergency authorization to an applicant who is enrolled in an approved preparation program but has not yet met the requirements for an initial educator license or a school speech-language pathology assistant authorization. The department may issue an emergency authorization if:
(I) A school district requests the emergency authorization to employ a nonlicensed teacher, principal, administrator, or special services provider, including but not limited to an unauthorized school speech-language pathology assistant who has a bachelor's degree in:
(A) Speech, language, and hearing sciences;
(B) Communications disorders-speech sciences; or
(C) Any other field if the unauthorized school speech-language pathology assistant has completed a minimum number of credits of course work in speech, language, and hearing sciences, which minimum number of credits is established by rules promulgated by the state board of education pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (10) of this section;
(II) The requesting school district submits to the department documented evidence of a demonstrated need for specific and essential educational services for students that the applicant would provide and that would otherwise be unavailable to students in the school district due to a shortage of licensed educators or authorized speech-language pathology assistants with appropriate endorsements; and
(III) The state board of education determines that employment of the applicant is essential to preservation of the school district's instructional program and that establishment of a one-year or two-year alternative teacher preparation program within the school district is not a practicable solution for resolution of the demonstrated shortage.
(b) An emergency authorization is valid for one year. If the state board of education determines that the employing school district continues to require the services of the person holding the emergency authorization, based on evidence submitted by the school district demonstrating the continued existence of the hardship circumstances described in subparagraphs (II) and (III) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), the state board of education may renew the emergency authorization for one additional year only.
school district continues to require the services of the person holding the emergency authorization, based on evidence submitted by the school district demonstrating the continued existence of the hardship circumstances described in subparagraphs (II) and (III) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), the state board of education may renew the emergency authorization for one additional year only.
(c) (I) A school district that employs a person who holds an emergency authorization may provide an induction program for the person, as described in section 22-60.5-204, 22-60.5-213, 22-60.5-304, or 22-60.5-309, whichever is applicable. If the person successfully completes the induction program while employed under the emergency authorization, the person may apply completion of the induction program toward meeting the requirements for a professional educator license.
(II) If a person who is employed under an emergency authorization successfully completes an induction program and completes the requirements prescribed in section 22-60.5-201 (1)(b)(I), 22-60.5-210 (1)(a)(I), 22-60.5-301 (1)(a)(I), or 22-60.5-306 (1)(a)(I), whichever is applicable, for an initial educator license while employed under the emergency authorization, the department of education may issue a professional educator license to the person upon application.
(5) Temporary educator eligibility authorization. (a) The department of education may issue a temporary educator eligibility authorization to a person who is enrolled in an approved program of preparation for a special education educator or who is working to attain a special services provider initial license but who has not yet met the requirements for the applicable initial educator license. The department may issue the authorization under the following circumstances:
(I) A school district requests the temporary educator eligibility authorization to employ as a special education teacher or director or as a special services provider an applicant who does not yet meet the requirements to obtain the applicable initial educator license but who meets the eligibility criteria specified in paragraph (b) of this subsection (5);
(II) The requesting school district provides documented evidence of a demonstrated need for specific and essential educational services that the applicant would provide but that would otherwise be unavailable to students due to a shortage of licensed educators with the appropriate endorsement.
(b) An applicant for a temporary educator eligibility authorization shall:
(I) Be continuously enrolled in an approved or alternative program of preparation leading to a bachelor's degree or higher degree from an accepted institution of higher education; or
(II) Be enrolled in an approved or alternative special education or special education director preparation program offered by an accepted institution of higher education; or
(III) Be approved for a temporary educator eligibility authorization based on evidence that documents compliance with requirements specified by rule of the state board of education.
(c) In addition to the circumstances and criteria specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection (5), the department of education may issue a temporary educator eligibility authorization to a special services provider who has met the minimum degree requirements necessary to practice in his or her area of specialization, but who has not completed the necessary national content examination or school practicum in the area of specialization. A school district may employ a person who holds a temporary educator eligibility authorization issued pursuant to this paragraph (c) only if the person is under the supervision of a professionally licensed person in the same area of specialization.
(d) A temporary educator eligibility authorization is valid for one year and may be renewed twice.
or school practicum in the area of specialization. A school district may employ a person who holds a temporary educator eligibility authorization issued pursuant to this paragraph (c) only if the person is under the supervision of a professionally licensed person in the same area of specialization.
(d) A temporary educator eligibility authorization is valid for one year and may be renewed twice.
(e) (I) A school district that employs a person who holds a temporary educator eligibility authorization may provide an induction program for the person, as described in section 22-60.5-204, 22-60.5-213, or 22-60.5-309, whichever is applicable. If the person successfully completes the induction program while employed under the temporary educator eligibility authorization, the person may apply completion of the induction program toward meeting the requirements for a professional educator license.
(II) If a person who is employed under a temporary educator eligibility authorization successfully completes an induction program and completes the requirements prescribed in section 22-60.5-201 (1)(b)(I), 22-60.5-210 (1)(a)(I), or 22-60.5-306 (1)(a)(I), whichever is applicable, for an initial educator license while employed under the temporary educator eligibility authorization, the department of education may issue a professional educator license to the person upon application.
(6) Substitute authorization. A substitute authorization authorizes a school district to employ a person to teach on a substitute basis. A substitute authorization shall be valid for such periods of time as specified in, and may be renewed as authorized in, rules adopted by the state board of education.
(7) Interim authorization. (a) An interim authorization authorizes a school district to employ a person who is:
(I) Certified or licensed, or is eligible for certification or licensure, as a teacher, principal, or administrator in another state and who has not successfully completed the assessment of professional competencies to obtain an initial license under section 22-60.5-201 (1)(b), 22-60.5-301 (1)(a), or 22-60.5-306 (1)(a) but who meets the other requirements for an initial license specified in said sections; or
(II) Seeking an alternative teacher license pursuant to section 22-60.5-201 (1)(a) and meets the requirements for an alternative teacher license; except that the person has not successfully completed the assessment of professional competencies to obtain an alternative teacher license.
(b) An interim authorization is valid for one year, and the department of education may renew the authorization for one additional year. The employing school district may include the period during which a person works under an interim authorization toward the three full years of continuous employment necessary to cease being a probationary teacher pursuant to section 22-63-103 (7).
acher license.
(b) An interim authorization is valid for one year, and the department of education may renew the authorization for one additional year. The employing school district may include the period during which a person works under an interim authorization toward the three full years of continuous employment necessary to cease being a probationary teacher pursuant to section 22-63-103 (7).
(c) A school district that employs a person who holds an interim authorization may provide an induction program for the person, as described in section 22-60.5-204, 22-60.5-304, or 22-60.5-309, whichever is applicable. If the person successfully completes the induction program while employed under the interim authorization, the person may apply completion of the induction program toward meeting the requirements for a professional educator license.
(7.5) Military spouse interim authorization. (a) The department of education may issue a military spouse interim authorization that authorizes a school district to employ a person who:
(I) Is certified or licensed, or is eligible for certification or licensure, as a teacher, special services provider, principal, or administrator in another state and who has not successfully completed the assessment of professional competencies to obtain an initial license under section 22-60.5-201 (1)(b), 22-60.5-301 (1)(a), or 22-60.5-306 (1)(a) but who meets the other requirements for an initial license specified in said sections; and
(II) Is a military spouse.
(b) Prior to issuing an authorization under this section, the department of education may contract with a qualified third party to work with a military spouse to meet the requirements of section 22-60.5-103 concerning a fingerprint-based criminal history record check.
(c) The Colorado bureau of investigation shall return the results of each fingerprint-based criminal history record check submitted pursuant to this section to the department of education no later than sixty days following receipt of the request.
(d) A military spouse interim authorization is valid for one year, and the department of education may renew the authorization for one additional year.
(e) The employing school district shall include the period during which a person works under a military spouse interim authorization toward the three full years of continuous employment necessary to cease being a probationary teacher pursuant to section 22-63-103 (7).
(f) A school district that employs a person who holds a military spouse interim authorization may provide an induction program for the person, as described in section 22-60.5-204, 22-60.5-304, or 22-60.5-309, whichever is applicable. If the person successfully completes the induction program while employed under the military spouse interim authorization, he or she may apply the completion of the induction program toward meeting the requirements for a professional educator license.
(g) The department of education shall issue a military spouse interim authorization to a person who meets the criteria of this subsection (7.5) no later than ninety days after the receipt of the initial application.
(h) For the purposes of this section, "military spouse" means a spouse of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States who has been transferred or is scheduled to be transferred to Colorado, is domiciled in Colorado, or has moved to Colorado on a permanent change-of-station basis.
(7.7) Exchange educator interim authorization. (a) The department of education may issue an exchange educator interim authorization that authorizes a school district to assign a person who is a participant in a district-recognized educator exchange program and is certified or licensed, or is eligible for certification or licensure, as a teacher, special services provider, principal, or administrator in another country.
r interim authorization. (a) The department of education may issue an exchange educator interim authorization that authorizes a school district to assign a person who is a participant in a district-recognized educator exchange program and is certified or licensed, or is eligible for certification or licensure, as a teacher, special services provider, principal, or administrator in another country.
(b) Prior to issuing an authorization under this section, the department of education may contract with a qualified third party to work with an exchange educator to meet the requirements of section 22-60.5-103 concerning a fingerprint-based criminal history record check.
(c) The Colorado bureau of investigation shall return the results of each fingerprint-based criminal history record check submitted pursuant to this section to the department of education no later than sixty days following receipt of the request.
(d) An exchange educator interim authorization is valid for one year, and the department of education may renew the authorization for one additional year.
(e) The department of education shall issue an exchange educator interim authorization to a person who meets the criteria of this subsection (7.7) no later than ninety days after the receipt of the initial application.
(8) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-160), ch. 292, p. 1448, § 3, effective May 21, 2009.)
(9) Career and technical education authorization. (a) The department of education may issue an initial career and technical education authorization to a person who meets the minimum qualifications that the state board for community colleges and occupational education adopts pursuant to section 23-60-304 (3)(a), C.R.S. An initial career and technical education authorization is valid for three years and may not be renewed.
(b) The department of education may issue a professional career and technical education authorization to a person who meets the criteria that the state board for community colleges and occupational education adopts pursuant to section 23-60-304 (3)(a), C.R.S. A professional career and technical education authorization is valid for five years. The department of education may renew a professional career and technical education authorization for succeeding five-year periods when the person holding the authorization completes the renewal requirements that the state board for community colleges and occupational education adopts pursuant to section 23-60-304 (3)(a), C.R.S.
(10) School speech-language pathology assistant authorization. (a) The department of education may issue a school speech-language pathology assistant authorization to a person who meets the criteria specified by rule of the state board of education, which at a minimum shall include:
(I) (A) Completion of at least a bachelor's degree, which degree is from an accepted institution of higher education, in speech communication, speech-language pathology, or communication disorders-speech sciences, or a bachelor's degree in any other field if the unauthorized school speech-language pathology assistant has completed a minimum number of credits of course work in speech, language, and hearing sciences, which minimum number of credits is established by rules promulgated by the state board of education pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (10) of this section.
(B) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1034), ch. 116, p. 391, § 1, effective August 11, 2010.)
(II) Successful completion of a school speech-language pathology assistant program that:
(A) Meets or exceeds recommended guidelines established by a national association of speech-language-hearing professionals; and
board of education pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (10) of this section.
(B) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1034), ch. 116, p. 391, § 1, effective August 11, 2010.)
(II) Successful completion of a school speech-language pathology assistant program that:
(A) Meets or exceeds recommended guidelines established by a national association of speech-language-hearing professionals; and
(B) Includes a requirement that each student complete at least one hundred clock hours of a school-based practicum under the supervision of a nationally certified speech-language pathologist who resides or works within Colorado or within a reasonable commuting distance to Colorado, which supervision may be performed electronically via remote interactive technology; and
(III) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2010, (HB 10-1034), ch. 116, p. 391, § 1, effective August 11, 2010.)
(IV) Demonstrated knowledge and skills in competencies specified by rule of the state board of education.
(b) A school speech-language pathology assistant authorization is valid for five years. The department of education may renew the authorization for succeeding five-year periods upon presentation of documented evidence of completion of content-related renewal requirements established by rule of the state board of education, which requirements shall include, but not be limited to, continuing education requirements.
(c) On or before November 1, 2010, the state board of education shall promulgate rules establishing a minimum number of credits of course work in speech, language, and hearing sciences that a person with a bachelor's degree must complete for the purposes of sub-subparagraph (C) of subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of subsection (4) of this section and of sub-subparagraph (A) of subparagraph (I) of paragraph (a) of this subsection (10).
(11) Educational interpreter authorization. The department of education may issue an educational interpreter authorization to a person to allow the school district to employ the person to provide teaching and interpreting services for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. To receive an educational interpreter authorization, a person shall comply with the criteria established by rule of the state board of education. An educational interpreter authorization is valid for five years. The department of education may renew the authorization for succeeding five-year periods upon submittal of documented evidence of completion of content-related renewal requirements established by rule of the state board of education.
(12) Junior reserve officer training corps instructor authorization. The department of education may issue a junior reserve officer training corps instructor authorization, referred to in this subsection (12) as a "JROTC instructor authorization", to a person who provides documented evidence of junior reserve officer training corps certification based on successful acquisition of service-specific junior reserve officer training corps program director certification or completion of service-specific junior reserve officer training corps preparation program requirements, including but not limited to, completion of a service-specified junior reserve officer training corps certification training program. A JROTC instructor authorization is valid for five years. The department of education may renew a JROTC instructor authorization for succeeding five-year periods when the authorization holder submits documented evidence of service-specific junior reserve officer training corps recertification following successful completion of a service-specific junior reserve officer training corps recertification course or such other requirements as the applicable branch of military service may stipulate.
a JROTC instructor authorization for succeeding five-year periods when the authorization holder submits documented evidence of service-specific junior reserve officer training corps recertification following successful completion of a service-specific junior reserve officer training corps recertification course or such other requirements as the applicable branch of military service may stipulate.
(13) Adult basic education authorization. The department of education may issue an adult basic education authorization to an applicant who provides documented evidence of adult basic education training and experience. A school district may employ a person who holds an adult basic education authorization to work as an adult basic education instructor in an adult education program operated by the school district before, during, or after regular school hours. An adult basic education authorization is valid for five years from the date of issuance. The department of education may renew the adult basic education authorization for successive five-year periods upon receipt of documented evidence that the person holding the authorization has completed additional adult basic education training or practice and any other renewal requirements specified by rule of the state board of education.
(14) Principal authorization. (a) The department may issue a principal authorization to a person who does not hold a principal license but who holds an earned baccalaureate or higher degree from an accepted institution of higher education and who will be employed pursuant to the provisions of section 22-60.5-305.5 by a school district, charter school, or nonpublic school while completing an individualized alternative principal program or an alternative principal program approved pursuant to section 22-60.5-305.5. If the person is completing an individualized alternative principal program, the program must be approved by the state board of education as provided in this subsection (14). A school district may employ a person who holds a principal authorization to perform the duties of a principal or a vice-principal in a school, so long as the person who holds the authorization is under the supervision of a professional principal licensee.
(b) To receive a principal authorization, a person, in collaboration with a school district, charter school, nonpublic school, or the institute, shall submit to the department of education documentation that includes:
(I) (A) If the person is completing an individualized alternative principal program, the course work, practicums, and other educational requirements, identified by the person and the collaborating school district, charter school, nonpublic school, or institute, that will comprise the person's individualized alternative principal program and that the person will complete while the person is employed under the principal authorization; or
(B) If the person is completing an alternative principal program, evidence that the alternative principal program in which the person is enrolled is approved pursuant to section 22-60.5-305.5; and
(II) A letter from the collaborating school district or charter school stating the school district's, charter school's, or nonpublic school's intention to employ the applicant as a principal or a vice-principal upon issuance of the principal authorization; and
(III) Any additional documentation required by rule of the state board of education.
d is approved pursuant to section 22-60.5-305.5; and
(II) A letter from the collaborating school district or charter school stating the school district's, charter school's, or nonpublic school's intention to employ the applicant as a principal or a vice-principal upon issuance of the principal authorization; and
(III) Any additional documentation required by rule of the state board of education.
(c) At a minimum, a person's individualized alternative principal program shall ensure that:
(I) The person receives information, experience, and training and develops skills comparable to the information, experience, training, and skills possessed by a person who qualifies for an initial principal license as provided in section 22-60.5-301 (1)(a);
(II) The person receives coaching and mentoring from one or more licensed principals and administrators and continuing performance-based assessment of the person's skills development; except that, if the person participates in an individualized alternative principal program offered by a nonpublic school, the person must receive coaching and mentoring from one or more principals and administrators who have three or more years of experience in a nonpublic school;
(III) The person demonstrates professional competencies in subject matter areas as specified by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-303; and
(IV) The person receives education and training that provides the person with an overview of Title II of the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; section 504 of the federal "Rehabilitation Act of 1973", 29 U.S.C. sec. 701 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; the "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; individualized education programs; and child find and that teaches effective special education classroom practices, including but not limited to inclusive learning environments.
(d) If the state board of education determines a person has submitted the documentation described in subsection (14)(b) of this section and the person's individualized alternative principal program meets the requirements specified in subsection (14)(c) of this section, the state board of education shall approve the individualized alternative principal program and the department of education shall issue the principal authorization to the person. If the department confirms that a person has submitted the documentation described in subsection (14)(b) of this section and the person is enrolled and participating in an alternative principal program approved pursuant to section 22-60.5-305.5, the department shall issue the principal authorization to the person. A principal authorization is valid for three years and may not be renewed.
e person. If the department confirms that a person has submitted the documentation described in subsection (14)(b) of this section and the person is enrolled and participating in an alternative principal program approved pursuant to section 22-60.5-305.5, the department shall issue the principal authorization to the person. A principal authorization is valid for three years and may not be renewed.
(e) (I) A school district, charter school, or nonpublic school that employs a person who holds a principal authorization may provide an induction program for the person, as described in section 22-60.5-304. If the person successfully completes the induction program while employed under the principal authorization, the person may apply completion of the induction program toward meeting the requirements for a professional principal license.
(II) If a person who is employed under a principal authorization successfully completes an induction program and completes the individualized alternative principal program or alternative principal program while employed under the principal authorization, the department of education may issue a professional principal license to the person upon application.
(15) Native American language and culture instruction authorization. (a) The department may issue a Native American language and culture instruction authorization to an individual under the following circumstances:
(I) If the individual qualifies for an adjunct instructor authorization pursuant to subsection (2) of this section in the area of native languages; or
(II) If an individual cannot be identified who meets the criteria of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a), the employing school district may allow an individual to apply to the department for approval of a Native American language and culture instruction authorization if the individual has demonstrated expertise in a Native American language of a federally recognized tribe. The Native American language and culture instruction authorization shall allow the individual to teach the Native American language in which he or she has demonstrated expertise for the employing school district. An individual authorized pursuant to this subparagraph (II) shall work in partnership with a licensed teacher who currently teaches world languages for the employing school district. The approval process for the Native American language and culture instruction authorization shall be established by rule of the state board and shall include, at a minimum:
(A) A method to establish and document the expertise of the applicant in the Native American language of a federally recognized tribe;
(B) The identification of the partnering licensed teacher;
(C) A requirement that the applicant meet any objective standards for language proficiency established by the state board;
(D) A prohibition on the applicant from teaching any subject other than the Native American language for which he or she has demonstrated expertise; and
(E) A renewal process for the authorization.
(b) A Native American language and culture authorization issued pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (15) is valid for five years from the date of issuance. The department may renew the authorization for succeeding five-year periods upon the receipt of documented evidence that the person holding the authorization has completed any renewal requirements specified by rule by the state board of education.
American language and culture authorization issued pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (15) is valid for five years from the date of issuance. The department may renew the authorization for succeeding five-year periods upon the receipt of documented evidence that the person holding the authorization has completed any renewal requirements specified by rule by the state board of education.
(c) All laws and rules, including but not limited to section 22-9-106 and any rules promulgated thereunder related to educator evaluation and effectiveness, shall apply to the individual holding an authorization pursuant to this subsection (15).
(16) Teacher apprenticeship authorization. (a) (I) The department may issue a teacher apprenticeship authorization to a teacher apprentice that allows the teacher apprentice to be employed by a local education provider as a teacher apprentice in roles of increasing responsibility, including working as a substitute teacher and a teacher of record. To receive a teacher apprenticeship authorization, a person shall:
(A) Be employed by a school district, BOCES, charter school, or institute charter school as a teacher apprentice;
(B) Be actively registered in a teacher apprenticeship program; and
(C) Be actively enrolled in an affiliated bachelor's degree program from an accredited institution.
(II) The department shall issue a teacher apprenticeship authorization to a person who meets the criteria pursuant to subsection (16)(a)(I) of this section no later than forty-five days after receipt of the initial application.
(III) The teacher apprenticeship authorization is valid for a period of four years while the teacher apprentice completes the affiliated bachelor's degree and on-the-job training requirements. An authorization is renewable for up to two successive terms, in increments of two years, as necessary for the teacher apprentice to fulfill the apprenticeship requirements.
(IV) The teacher apprenticeship authorization is automatically revoked if the teacher apprentice withdraws from the teacher apprenticeship program or withdraws from the affiliated bachelor's degree program. The teacher apprenticeship program sponsor may revoke the authorization if the teacher apprentice does not make satisfactory progress in the teacher apprenticeship program, as determined by the employer. The teacher apprenticeship program sponsor is responsible for notifying the department when a teacher apprentice withdraws from the teacher degree apprenticeship program.
(b) The state board of education shall promulgate rules defining the necessary qualifications and competencies for each level of authorization, including:
(I) Authorization for the teacher apprentice to work as a substitute teacher;
(II) Authorization to student teach; and
(III) Authorization to work as a teacher of record. This authorization requires a passing score on the appropriate state board of education-approved content exam or portfolio equivalents, if relevant to the endorsement area, and must not require completion of a bachelor's degree. The department's rules must not create unreasonable barriers that prevent access to the program.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-111.5 Teacher degree apprenticeship program - guidelines - teacher apprenticeship program sponsors - application for authorization with the department - criteria for authorization - program audit
22-60.5-111.5. Teacher degree apprenticeship program - guidelines - teacher apprenticeship program sponsors - application for authorization with the department - criteria for authorization - program audit. (1) The department shall create and establish guidelines for a teacher degree apprenticeship program on or before January 1, 2024. The department's guidelines must not create unreasonable barriers that prevent access to the teacher apprenticeship program. The guidelines must include:
(a) The minimum passing score for any examination, which must not exceed what is required for any teacher licensure candidate;
(b) Apprentice competencies aligned to the Colorado teacher quality standards and licensure area content standards, which are independently and exclusively evaluated by the apprentice mentor teacher, program administrator, or program evaluator;
(c) A provision that apprentice mentor teachers are selected at the full discretion of the employer; and
(d) A requirement that a teacher apprentice works as a teacher of record for a minimum of one year.
(2) (a) The state board of education shall authorize qualified agencies with expertise in apprenticeship or in teacher preparation to serve as teacher apprenticeship program sponsors in partnership with employer partners, including any school districts, BOCES, charter schools, nonpublic schools, or institutes. The department shall determine the number of new agencies eligible to receive authorization.
(b) An entity that wishes to serve as a teacher apprenticeship program sponsor shall notify the state department of education and submit an application that, at a minimum, documents the entity's expertise with apprenticeship or with teacher preparation.
(c) Within thirty days after an entity submits a complete application to the state department of education, the state board of education shall notify the entity that the state board of education has either approved or disapproved the sponsorship application.
(3) (a) In addition to submitting an application to be approved as a teacher apprenticeship program sponsor, the entity shall submit an application for the sponsor's teacher degree apprenticeship program to the state board of education for approval. The application for the teacher degree apprenticeship program must include a work process schedule and related instruction plan as set forth by the United States department of labor or a state apprenticeship agency.
(b) The state department of education shall review applications for the teacher degree apprenticeship program and shall make recommendations to the state board of education for approval or denial of the applications.
(c) Within ninety days after a teacher apprenticeship program sponsor submits a complete application to the state department of education, the state board of education shall notify the teacher apprenticeship program sponsor that the state board of education has either approved or denied the application for the teacher degree apprenticeship program. If the application is denied, the state board of education shall cite the reasons for the denial.
(4) An approved teacher degree apprenticeship program must meet the following criteria:
(a) Be registered with the United States department of labor's office of apprenticeship or state apprenticeship agency;
(b) Include a plan for training and supporting apprentice mentor teachers;
(c) Include a wage scale commensurate with existing pay scales of local education providers based on the level of work being performed;
(d) The approved teacher degree apprenticeship program incorporates a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a related field of study relative to the endorsement area that the program's participants will pursue. The bachelor's degree program does not need to be an approved educator preparation program pursuant to section 23-1-121.
providers based on the level of work being performed;
(d) The approved teacher degree apprenticeship program incorporates a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a related field of study relative to the endorsement area that the program's participants will pursue. The bachelor's degree program does not need to be an approved educator preparation program pursuant to section 23-1-121.
(e) The bachelor's degree program referenced in subsection (4)(d) of this section must incorporate on-the-job training in meaningful and time-saving ways through one of the following mechanisms:
(I) Offering thirty or more credits for successfully completing on-the-job training;
(II) Creating a residency model that closely integrates course work and clinical experience with relevant and connected assignments carried out in the clinical experience that counts as twenty-five percent or more toward the degree;
(III) Embedding on-the-job learning into the homework or assignment requirements of twenty-five percent or more of the courses within the degree; or
(IV) Operating as a competency-based bachelor's degree program.
(5) (a) Every five years after program approval, the state department of education shall consult with the United States department of labor's apprenticeship office, or state apprenticeship agency representatives, regarding the audit required pursuant to 29 CFR 29.3 to review program compliance and audit findings to ensure the approved teacher degree apprenticeship program continues to meet the requirements. An approved teacher degree apprenticeship program that does not meet the requirements is subject to disqualification by the state department of education.
(b) If disqualified, the teacher apprenticeship program sponsor may continue to operate the teacher degree apprenticeship program only as long as necessary to allow the actively registered apprentices to finish.
(c) If the teacher apprenticeship program sponsor redesigns the teacher degree apprenticeship program to meet the requirements, and the state board of education approves the redesigned teacher degree apprenticeship program, the teacher apprenticeship program sponsor may reinstate apprenticeship authorization, provided the teacher apprenticeship program sponsor meets the requirements for approval.
(6) The state department of education shall annually include data on teacher degree apprenticeship programs in the existing educator preparation program report dashboard, consistent with the data and reporting requirements in section 22-2-112 (1)(q). The department shall coordinate with the United States department of labor's office of apprenticeship or the state apprenticeship agency to source the data.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-112 Fees - fund - report - repeal
22-60.5-112. Fees - fund - report - repeal. (1) (a) The fee for the examination and review of an application for any license, endorsement, or authorization, or any renewal or reinstatement, shall be established by the state board of education and is nonrefundable. Upon determination of eligibility, such license, endorsement, or authorization must be issued without an additional fee. The state board of education shall adjust, if necessary, all such fees annually so that they generate an amount of revenue that approximates the direct and indirect costs of the state board of education and of the department for the administration of this article 60.5; however, the state board of education shall establish and adjust such fees for licenses issued pursuant to section 22-60.5-201 (1)(a) so that the fees generate an amount of revenue that approximates the direct and indirect costs of the state board of education and the department for the administration of sections 22-60.5-201 (1)(a) and 22-60.5-205. All fees collected pursuant to this section must be transmitted to the state treasurer and credited to the educator licensure cash fund, which fund is hereby created and referred to in this subsection (1) as the "cash fund". The general assembly may designate general fund money to the educator licensure cash fund to supplement educator fees. The general assembly shall make annual appropriations from the general fund or cash fund for expenditures of the state board of education and of the department incurred in the administration of this article 60.5. At the end of any fiscal year, all unexpended and unencumbered moneys in the cash fund remain in the cash fund and must not be credited or transferred to the general fund or any other fund.
(b) (I) Notwithstanding subsection (1)(a) of this section to the contrary, for the 2011-12 fiscal year through the 2029-30 fiscal year, the money in the cash fund is continuously appropriated to the department to offset the direct and indirect costs incurred by the state board of education and the department in administering this article 60.5. In each of the fiscal years, the general appropriation bill must, for informational purposes, reflect the estimated amount of expenditures, including any funding for personnel, from the cash fund.
(II) On or before November 1, 2029, the department shall report to the education committees of the house of representatives and the senate, or any successor committees, and the joint budget committee of the general assembly concerning the revenue credited to, and expenditures from, the cash fund and shall make a recommendation whether the continuous appropriation authority should be maintained.
(III) (Deleted by amendment, L.2024.)
(IV) This subsection (1)(b) is repealed, effective July 1, 2031.
(2) Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, on March 5, 2003, the state treasurer shall deduct one hundred forty-three thousand five hundred thirty-five dollars from the educator licensure cash fund and transfer such sum to the general fund.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-112.5 National credential - fee assistance - one-time payments
22-60.5-112.5. National credential - fee assistance - one-time payments. (1) (a) For the 2002-03 budget year, the 2004-05 budget year, and each budget year thereafter, subject to available appropriations, the department of education shall assist persons who are seeking national credentials by paying a portion of the fees charged for such national credential. The general assembly shall annually appropriate, if available, moneys from the state education fund, created in section 17 (4) of article IX of the state constitution, to the department of education to be used for the purposes of this section. Fee assistance pursuant to this section shall be available to any person who:
(I) Is seeking a national credential from an approved professional organization as a requirement for or in the course of obtaining master teacher certification pursuant to this article;
(II) Repealed.
(III) Is employed as a teacher in a public school or an approved facility school, as defined in section 22-2-402 (1), in this state at the time of applying for fee assistance pursuant to this section; and
(IV) Applies for national credential fee assistance as provided in this section.
(b) Repealed.
(2) (a) To apply for national credential fee assistance pursuant to this section, a person shall present to the department of education the following items:
(I) Proof that the person has begun the process to obtain the national credential and identification of the national credential program in which the person will participate to obtain the national credential;
(II) Proof that the person has received or will receive national credential fee assistance through a federal assistance program and the amount of such assistance; and
(III) Proof that the person is employed as a teacher at a public school or an approved facility school, as defined in section 22-2-402 (1), in this state at the time of applying for national credential fee assistance.
(b) Following receipt of the items specified in paragraph (a) of this subsection (2) and verification that the person meets the criteria specified in subsection (1) of this section, the department of education shall forward the fee assistance to the identified national credential program on behalf of the person in the amount specified in subsection (1) of this section. The fee assistance shall be paid out of moneys appropriated to the department of education pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section.
(c) If a person who receives fee assistance pursuant to this section does not complete the national credential program for which he or she received such assistance, the national credential program shall refund to the department of education the amount of fee assistance paid on behalf of said person.
(3) (a) The state board of education shall promulgate rules as necessary for the implementation of this section, including but not limited to a rule identifying those nationally recognized professional credentialing organizations that are approved for purposes of this section.
redential program shall refund to the department of education the amount of fee assistance paid on behalf of said person.
(3) (a) The state board of education shall promulgate rules as necessary for the implementation of this section, including but not limited to a rule identifying those nationally recognized professional credentialing organizations that are approved for purposes of this section.
(b) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2006, p. 677, § 18, effective April 28, 2006.)
(4) (a) The general assembly recognizes that, to obtain a national credential from an approved professional organization, a teacher must demonstrate excellence in teaching skills and achieve a very high level of performance. The general assembly further recognizes that incentives to encourage teachers to obtain national credentialing will benefit the students of Colorado by encouraging teachers to achieve higher levels of performance. Therefore, the general assembly hereby finds that, for purposes of section 17 of article IX of the state constitution, providing national credential fee assistance to teachers who obtain a national credential from an approved professional organization constitutes a performance incentive for teachers and such teachers may therefore receive funding from the state education fund created in section 17 (4) of article IX of the state constitution.
(b) Repealed.
(5) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
(a) "Approved professional organization" means a nationally recognized professional credentialing organization that is approved by rule of the state board of education.
(b) "National credential" means a certification or other form of registration or credential issued by a nationally recognized professional credentialing organization. "National credential" shall include, but need not be limited to, certification by the national board for professional teaching standards.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-113 Issuance of professional licenses to certificate holders
22-60.5-113. Issuance of professional licenses to certificate holders. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-114 State board of education - waivers
22-60.5-114. State board of education - waivers. (1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary and upon application of any institution of higher education, school district, board of cooperative services, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school, the state board of education is authorized to waive any requirement imposed by this article 60.5 in regard to alternative teacher programs or approved induction programs. Such waiver may be granted only upon a majority vote of the members of the state board of education and upon a sufficient showing that such waiver is necessary to allow innovative programs intended to improve the quality of such educators. The state board of education shall promulgate rules regarding such procedures and criteria necessary for the implementation of this section.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the state board of education may grant a waiver of the induction program requirement upon a two-thirds majority vote of the board members and upon a sufficient showing that implementation of an induction program would cause extreme hardship to the school district, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school. An application for waiver of the induction program requirement shall include a plan for the support, assistance, and training of initially licensed educators.
(3) Upon application by a school district, nonpublic school, or board of cooperative services, the state board may grant a waiver of the requirement that a person applying for an initial license demonstrate professional competencies. Such a waiver may be granted only by a two-thirds majority vote of the board members following a demonstration that:
(a) The license applicant is employed by the school district, nonpublic school, or board of cooperative services under an authorization issued pursuant to section 22-60.5-111;
(b) Enforcement of the requirement would cause extreme hardship to the school district, nonpublic school, or board of cooperative services or to the license applicant; and
(c) The skill level of the license applicant is comparable to the skill level of an applicant who has successfully demonstrated professional competencies. The school district, nonpublic school, or board of cooperative services shall provide documentary evidence of the skill level of the license applicant.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-115 Rules
22-60.5-115. Rules. (1) The state board of education is authorized to adopt and prescribe rules not inconsistent with the provisions of this article for its proper administration. It is the intent of the general assembly that, in prescribing rules for the administration of this article, the state board of education shall adopt the minimum amount of rules necessary to ensure the least cumbersome process possible for issuing and renewing educator licenses.
(2) The state board of education shall promulgate rules as necessary to implement sections 22-60.5-201 (1)(a) and 22-60.5-205. The rules must include, but need not be limited to, the following:
(a) Application procedures to obtain approval by the state board of education of any proposed alternative teacher program. Such application for approval shall include, but shall not be limited to, statements by the designated agency making such application as to the expectations of what such program would accomplish, the goals and objectives of such alternative teacher program, and what benefits alternative teachers would expect to receive by participating in such alternative teacher program.
(b) Criteria for the approval by the state board of education of any proposed alternative teacher program;
(c) Criteria relating to the designation of mentor teachers by school districts, charter schools, or the institute providing alternative teacher programs. The guidelines may include consideration of the following factors in regard to potential mentor teachers:
(I) Educational attainment;
(II) Level of experience;
(III) The general consensus of professional opinion in the school district or charter school.
(d) Procedures and criteria for the evaluation of approved alternative teacher programs by the department of education;
(e) Procedures and criteria for performance evaluations of alternative teachers which shall be in accordance with section 22-9-106. However, the state board may provide for such performance evaluations by mentor teachers. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article 60.5, a nonpublic school is not required to conduct performance evaluations of any teacher in accordance with section 22-9-106; except that the state board may require a nonpublic school to periodically evaluate a person participating in an induction program or alternative preparation program pursuant to this article 60.5 to ensure that the person meets or exceeds the quality standards established by the state board for that person's profession.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-116 Evaluation of approved programs of preparation for teachers, principals, and administrators
22-60.5-116. Evaluation of approved programs of preparation for teachers, principals, and administrators. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-116.5 Education committees - evaluation of educator preparation programs - biennial joint meeting
22-60.5-116.5. Education committees - evaluation of educator preparation programs - biennial joint meeting. (1) (a) The education committees of the house of representatives and the senate, or any successor committees, shall biennially hold a joint meeting to assess the reports received concerning the effectiveness of the approved educator preparation programs in the state.
(b) At the meeting, the committees shall consider the reports on the review of approved educator preparation programs received from the state board pursuant to section 22-60.5-121. The committees shall take testimony from entities that provide the educator preparation programs, the state board of education, the Colorado commission on higher education, and any other interested persons. Based on the review of the reports and any testimony received, the committees shall assess whether the approved educator preparation programs are adequately preparing candidates to meet the quality standards adopted by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-2-109 (3).
(c) At the meeting, based on the review of the reports and any testimony received, the committees shall assess whether the approved principal preparation programs and alternative forms of principal preparation are adequately preparing principal candidates to meet the quality standards adopted by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-2-109 (6).
(2) If the committees, based on the reports received from the state board of education, determine that an approved educator preparation program is not adequately preparing licensure candidates, the committees shall instruct the Colorado commission on higher education to reduce the funding received by the institution of higher education that provides the approved educator preparation program during the next fiscal year. The commission shall notify the committees of the amount of the reduction prior to introduction of the annual general appropriation bill.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-117 Prior certificates validated
22-60.5-117. Prior certificates validated. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-118 Educator licenses - holding simultaneously
22-60.5-118. Educator licenses - holding simultaneously. Nothing in this article shall prohibit a person from simultaneously holding and maintaining different types of educator licenses.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-119 Applications for licenses - authority to suspend licenses - rules
22-60.5-119. Applications for licenses - authority to suspend licenses - rules. (1) Every application by an individual for a license issued by the department of education or any authorized agent of such department shall require the applicant's name and address, and either the applicant's social security number, the applicant's individual taxpayer identification number, or another document verifying the applicant's identity as determined by the state board of education.
(2) The department of education or any authorized agent of the department shall deny, suspend, or revoke any license pursuant to the provisions of section 26-13-126, C.R.S., and any rules promulgated in furtherance thereof, if the department or agent thereof receives a notice to deny, suspend, or revoke from the state child support enforcement agency because the licensee or applicant is out of compliance with a court or administrative order for current child support, child support debt, retroactive child support, child support arrearages, or child support when combined with maintenance or because the licensee or applicant has failed to comply with a properly issued subpoena or warrant relating to a paternity or child support proceeding. Any such denial, suspension, or revocation shall be in accordance with the procedures specified by rule of the department of education, rules promulgated by the state board of human services, and any memorandum of understanding entered into between the department of education or an authorized agent thereof and the state child support enforcement agency for the implementation of this section and section 26-13-126, C.R.S.
(3) (a) The department of education shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with the state child support enforcement agency, which memorandum shall identify the relative responsibilities of the department of education and the state child support enforcement agency in the department of human services with respect to the implementation of this section and section 26-13-126, C.R.S.
(b) The appropriate rule-making body of the department of education is authorized to promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this section.
(4) For purposes of this section, "license" means any recognition, authority, or permission that the department of education or any authorized agent of such department is authorized by law to issue for an individual to practice a profession or occupation or for an individual to participate in any recreational activity. "License" may include, but is not necessarily limited to, any license, certificate, certification, letter of authorization, or registration issued for an individual to practice a profession or occupation or for an individual to participate in any recreational activity.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-120 Provisional license - initial license - change of term
22-60.5-120. Provisional license - initial license - change of term. As of April 7, 2005, "provisional" educator licenses shall be known as "initial" educator licenses. A person who holds a provisional educator license as of April 7, 2005, shall be deemed to hold an initial educator license on and after said date, so long as the license is valid.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-121 Educator preparation programs - requirements - advisory committee - report - rules - legislative declaration - definitions
22-60.5-121. Educator preparation programs - requirements - advisory committee - report - rules - legislative declaration - definitions. (1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
(a) "Candidate" means a person who is participating in an initial, advanced, or other educator preparation program.
(b) "Educator preparation program" means a program that prepares educator candidates to meet the quality standards established pursuant to section 22-9-105.5 (10) and the requirements for licensure endorsement adopted by state board rule pursuant to section 22-60.5-106. For purposes of this section, an "educator preparation program" does not include an alternative teacher program that obtains approval from the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-205 (3).
(c) "Institution of higher education" means a state institution of higher education, as defined in section 23-18-102 (10)(a); a local district college, as defined in section 23-71-102 (1); an area technical college, as defined in section 23-60-103 (1); a private college or university, as defined in section 23-2-102 (11) and authorized by the Colorado commission on higher education; and an out-of-state public institution, as defined in section 23-2-102 (9) and authorized by the Colorado commission on higher education.
(d) "Program" means a planned sequence of undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or graduate courses and experiences for the purpose of preparing candidates to be effective educators in prekindergarten through twelfth-grade settings. A program may lead to a degree, an educator license, or both.
(2) The state board shall adopt rules establishing the requirements for educator preparation programs, which, at a minimum, must ensure that each educator preparation program includes:
(a) Program design around candidate proficiency and professionalism that supports decision-making about partnerships and the integration of curricula, learners, course work, and clinical experience;
(b) Mapping, planning, development, assessment, and support of candidate proficiency, including a candidate's deep understanding of content knowledge, pedagogical knowledge, the content knowledge required for educating, and the dispositions and professional qualities necessary to be successful;
(c) Course work that provides content knowledge as described in part 10 of article 7 of this title 22, specifically in teaching to the state content standards adopted pursuant to section 22-7-1005;
(d) Course work that is aligned with the "Colorado Reading to Ensure Academic Development Act", part 12 of article 7 of this title 22, and the foundational reading skills of phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary development, reading fluency, including oral skills and reading comprehension, and the skills and strategies to apply to ensure that every student learns how to read. Reading course work and clinical practice opportunities must be a significant focus for teachers preparing for endorsement in elementary, early childhood, or special education.
(e) Course work that provides educator candidates with an overview of Title II of the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; section 504 of the federal "Rehabilitation Act of 1973", 29 U.S.C. sec. 701 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; individualized education programs, as defined in section 22-20-103 (15); and child find, as defined in section 22-20-103 (4), and that teaches educators effective special education classroom practices, including, but not limited to, inclusive learning environments;
the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; individualized education programs, as defined in section 22-20-103 (15); and child find, as defined in section 22-20-103 (4), and that teaches educators effective special education classroom practices, including, but not limited to, inclusive learning environments;
(f) Intentional clinical experience, early on and throughout educator preparation, relating to predetermined state content standards that afford candidates multiple intentional experiences to learn from practice. Clinical experiences must be aligned with educator preparation program curricula so that candidates develop pedagogical skills and pedagogical content knowledge. Teacher preparation candidates shall complete a minimum of eight hundred hours in clinical experience, and principal and administrator candidates shall complete a minimum of three hundred hours of clinical experience. A teacher candidate shall complete the clinical experience hours while enrolled in an approved educator preparation program; except that an educator preparation program may review and accept clinical experience hours completed before enrolling an educator in the educator preparation program. A majority of the clinical experience hours must be completed through a continuous clinical placement. For every additional endorsement or advanced degree, a candidate shall complete an appropriate amount of supervised clinical experiences that relate to predetermined state content standards, including best practices and relevant national norms related to the candidate's endorsements.
(g) A requirement that each teacher preparation candidate in an initial licensure program complete at least one semester or quarter-length course in behavioral health training and one semester or quarter-length course in using culturally responsive and trauma- and evidenced-informed practices;
(h) A requirement that candidates for an elementary education endorsement, a middle school mathematics endorsement, or a secondary mathematics endorsement are trained in evidence-informed practices in mathematics, as defined in section 22-2-146.6, including interventions to help students who are below grade level or struggling in mathematics; children with disabilities, as defined in section 22-20-103; and students who are English language learners;
(i) A requirement that each educator preparation candidate, prior to graduation, demonstrate the skills required for licensure, as specified by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-2-109 (4), in the manner specified by rule of the state board of education; and
(j) A requirement that educator preparation programs, to improve their outcomes, engage in continuous evidence-based cycles of review regarding the impact of the educator preparation programs on the candidates' development throughout the educator preparation program. The cycles must include data on current candidates enrolled in the educator preparation program and available data on educators who have completed the educator preparation program.
(3) The state board shall adopt rules to ensure that each educator preparation program includes procedures to monitor and improve the effectiveness of the educator preparation program, as well as educator effectiveness of its graduates pursuant to section 22-9-105.5, including, at a minimum, the following:
(a) Periodic review of the educator preparation program to ensure that the educator preparation program meets the requirements specified by state board rule pursuant to this section;
(b) A procedure for collecting and reviewing evaluative data concerning the educator preparation program, including periodic surveys of graduates and employers, and educator data collected pursuant to section 22-2-112 (1)(q) in order to modify the educator preparation program as necessary in response to the data collected; and
e requirements specified by state board rule pursuant to this section;
(b) A procedure for collecting and reviewing evaluative data concerning the educator preparation program, including periodic surveys of graduates and employers, and educator data collected pursuant to section 22-2-112 (1)(q) in order to modify the educator preparation program as necessary in response to the data collected; and
(c) A procedure for reviewing the scores achieved on the professional competency assessments required pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 and the data concerning multiple measures of assessing professional competencies required pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 (3)(e) for candidates enrolled in and graduating from the educator preparation program and a procedure for modifying the educator preparation program as necessary.
(4) (a) (I) The department shall review each educator preparation program as provided in subsection (4)(b) of this section and establish a schedule for review of each educator preparation program that ensures each educator preparation program is reviewed not more frequently than once every five years; except that, if an educator preparation program is placed on conditional approval or probationary status, the educator preparation program must receive an additional review within the five-year period, as determined by the department. A review of or decision made concerning an educator preparation program after it is placed on conditional approval or probationary status does not change the date of the educator preparation program's next five-year review.
(II) Notwithstanding subsection (4)(a)(I) of this section, the department shall review any new educator preparation program no sooner than twelve months but not more than twenty-four months after the new educator preparation program is initially approved.
(III) Any new educator preparation program or modification to an existing educator preparation program that significantly modifies the content, clinical experiences, or educator preparation program delivery must be submitted to the department for review pursuant to this section. The state board shall adopt rules and procedures for the review of new and modified educator preparation programs.
(b) Each educator preparation program review conducted pursuant to subsection (4)(a) of this section must ensure that the educator preparation program meets the minimum requirements adopted pursuant to subsections (2) and (3) of this section. The review must be designed to ensure that educator preparation programs are implemented in a manner that enables candidates to meet the quality standards, as defined in section 22-9-103 (2.9), and the requirements for licensure endorsement adopted by state board rule pursuant to section 22-60.5-106. The department shall recommend to the state board that an educator preparation program be approved, placed on conditional approval, placed on probation, or not be approved pursuant to this section.
(c) The department shall work cooperatively with each educator preparation program to obtain any data requested by the department to determine the admission and enrollment patterns, completion rates, and effectiveness of educator preparation programs. In addition, each educator preparation program shall, upon request from the department, prepare and submit an annual report to assist the department in reviewing the educator preparation program pursuant to this section. The department shall collaborate with representatives from the governing boards of each institution of higher education that offers educator preparation programs in specifying the information to be included in the annual report.
all, upon request from the department, prepare and submit an annual report to assist the department in reviewing the educator preparation program pursuant to this section. The department shall collaborate with representatives from the governing boards of each institution of higher education that offers educator preparation programs in specifying the information to be included in the annual report.
(d) (I) Based on the department's recommendation that an educator preparation program not be approved or that it be placed on conditional approval or probation, the state board shall deny approval, grant the educator preparation program conditional approval, or place the educator preparation program on probation. The state board shall adopt rules specifying the procedures for denying approval or placing an educator preparation program on conditional approval or probation and the process by which the level of approval of an educator preparation program is reviewed and changed.
(II) An educator preparation program that the state board places on conditional approval may continue to accept new candidates. An educator preparation program that the state board places on probation shall not accept new candidates until the department removes the educator preparation program from probationary status.
(III) If the state board places an educator preparation program on conditional approval or probation, the state board shall consult with the department in determining whether the educator preparation program should subsequently be reapproved, conditionally approved, placed on probation, or terminated.
(IV) Institutions of higher education offering educator preparation programs are subject to the requirements of sections 23-1-107, 23-1-108, and 23-1-125. A private college or university, as defined in section 23-2-102 (11), and out-of-state public institutions, as defined in section 23-2-102 (9), that offer educator preparation programs in Colorado are subject to the requirements in article 2 of title 23 and related policies of the Colorado commission on higher education. In determining whether to initially approve or continue the approval of an educator preparation program, the state board shall consider any recommendations by the commission on higher education.
(e) The state board shall adopt rules and procedures to terminate any educator preparation program if the program did not successfully graduate any candidates during the previous five years.
(5) The department may establish a fee or reimbursement mechanism to be paid to the department by an entity that provides and applies for approval of an educator preparation program. The amount of the fee or reimbursement must reflect the direct and indirect costs of the department in administering the provisions of this section.
(6) (a) (I) The general assembly finds and declares that a high-quality teacher is the most important in-school factor for student achievement and that students benefit from seeing a diverse group of educators in classrooms. However, the educator workforce in Colorado is not as diverse as the population of students it serves or will serve in the future.
(II) Therefore, the general assembly declares that educator preparation programs must clearly and transparently show the first-time pass rates of candidates on the assessment administered pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 (3)(a)(I), especially those candidates whose gender, race, or ethnicity is underrepresented in the educator workforce, and that diverse educator candidates should have access to the necessary information to determine which educator preparation program gives the candidate the best chance of success at becoming an educator.
of candidates on the assessment administered pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 (3)(a)(I), especially those candidates whose gender, race, or ethnicity is underrepresented in the educator workforce, and that diverse educator candidates should have access to the necessary information to determine which educator preparation program gives the candidate the best chance of success at becoming an educator.
(b) Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the department shall annually prepare a report concerning the enrollment in, graduation from, and effectiveness of the educator preparation programs authorized by the department. In addition, the report must include:
(I) Data on the outcomes of graduates of educator preparation programs pursuant to section 22-2-112 (1)(q);
(II) The percentage of educator candidates graduating from each educator preparation program during the preceding twelve months who applied for and received an initial license pursuant to section 22-60.5-201;
(III) The percentage of graduates who passed the assessment administered pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 (3)(a)(I), including the percentage of graduates who passed the assessment on the first attempt; and
(IV) The percentage of graduates who did not take an assessment identified in section 22-60.5-203 (3)(a)(I) and instead sought licensure through the multiple measure options in section 22-60.5-203 (3)(a)(II) or (3)(a)(III).
(c) For purposes of completing the report required pursuant to subsection (6)(b) of this section, the department and the department of higher education shall share with one another any relevant data that complies with state and federal regulations. The department shall submit the report to the house of representatives education committee and the senate education committee, or their successor committees.
(d) All data and information required to be reported annually pursuant to subsection (6)(b) of this section must be disaggregated by the gender, race, and ethnicity of the candidates and graduates, to the extent possible.
(e) The department and the department of higher education shall post the annual report on their respective websites in the location relating to educator preparation programs and teacher licensure, if applicable.
(7) The department is encouraged to collaborate with national accrediting bodies of educator preparation programs and to offer concurrent and joint site visits to educator preparation programs, to the extent feasible.
(8) (a) There is created an advisory committee to the state board of education and the department to provide input on relevant topics related to educator preparation and educator quality, including but not limited to:
(I) Reviewing and providing feedback on the authorization and reauthorization process for new educator preparation programs, as well as added endorsement areas in already-approved programs;
(II) Participating in stakeholder discussions concerning new or revised educator preparation standards;
(III) Identifying ways to streamline applications for program authorization, reauthorization, and added endorsement areas;
(IV) Identifying strategies to better intersect and support Colorado schools in a school's educator pipeline development; and
(V) Articulating ways to increase the educator talent pipeline that meets Colorado's hiring needs, especially among underrepresented communities.
s;
(III) Identifying ways to streamline applications for program authorization, reauthorization, and added endorsement areas;
(IV) Identifying strategies to better intersect and support Colorado schools in a school's educator pipeline development; and
(V) Articulating ways to increase the educator talent pipeline that meets Colorado's hiring needs, especially among underrepresented communities.
(b) The advisory committee consists of the following eight members who are appointed by the commissioner of education in consultation with the executive director of the department of higher education through applications developed by the department:
(I) One representative from an urban school district;
(II) One representative from a rural school district;
(III) One representative from a traditional educator preparation program;
(IV) One representative from an alternative educator preparation program;
(V) One member who is a recent graduate from a Colorado educator preparation program who is currently teaching in a Colorado school;
(VI) One representative from the department;
(VII) One representative from the department of higher education; and
(VIII) One representative from the state charter school institute established in section 22-30.5-503.
(c) The members of the advisory committee shall select the chair.
(d) The advisory committee shall meet as often as necessary to provide input to the state board of education and the department pursuant to this subsection (8). The department shall establish procedures to allow members to participate in the meetings remotely.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-201 Types of teacher licenses issued - term - rules
22-60.5-201. Types of teacher licenses issued - term - rules. (1) The department is designated as the sole agency authorized to issue the following teacher licenses to persons of good moral character:
(a) Alternative teacher license. (I) The department may, at its discretion, issue an alternative teacher license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds an earned baccalaureate degree from a fully accredited institution of higher education;
(B) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2004, p. 1279, § 3, effective May 28, 2004.)
(C) Has been recommended by an accepted institution of higher education as holding a baccalaureate degree and has demonstrated to the state board of education, in a manner prescribed by rule of the board pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 (6), the subject matter knowledge necessary for teaching in the appropriate endorsement areas.
(D) Agrees to participate fully in a one-year or two-year alternative teacher program provided by a designated agency, which may include working as an alternative teacher in a licensed nonpublic child care facility or other preschool facility. The state board of education is authorized to promulgate rules as necessary to implement this subsection (1)(a)(I)(D).
(II) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-160), ch. 292, p. 1449, § 4, effective May 21, 2009.)
(III) Holders of alternative teacher licenses shall not be used to replace regularly licensed teachers in any action resulting from a contract dispute.
(IV) An alternative teacher license is valid in any school district, charter school, or nonpublic school and entitles the holder to work exclusively as an alternative teacher pursuant to the terms of an alternative teacher contract. A holder of an alternative teacher license is the teacher of record.
(V) For applicants enrolled in a one-year alternative teacher program, the alternative teacher license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(a) is valid for a period of one year after the date of issuance and may be renewed for only one additional year, but only upon written evidence that the employing school district, board of cooperative services, charter school, or nonpublic school anticipates extending the alternative teacher's contract for one additional year pursuant to section 22-60.5-207 (2). For applicants enrolled in a two-year alternative teacher program, the alternative teacher license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(a) is valid for a period of two years after the date of issuance.
(a.5) Teacher of record license. (I) The department shall issue a teacher of record license to an applicant who:
(A) Is enrolled in an accepted institution of higher education and has successfully completed all, or substantially all, of the course work requirements for completion of a bachelor's degree but has not yet completed teaching field work requirements;
(B) Is enrolled in a one- or two-year teacher of record program pursuant to section 22-60.5-208.7; and
(C) The applicant is or will be employed in a position for which no other qualified, licensed teacher has applied by a local education provider, as defined in section 22-60.5-208.7 (1), that determines that there is a critical teacher shortage.
(II) A teacher of record license is valid for two years after the date of issuance and can only be renewed one time if the holder did not complete a bachelor's degree due to unforeseen circumstances or hardship.
(III) The state board of education shall establish the competencies and standards necessary for a teacher of record to be employed by a school district or public school.
eacher shortage.
(II) A teacher of record license is valid for two years after the date of issuance and can only be renewed one time if the holder did not complete a bachelor's degree due to unforeseen circumstances or hardship.
(III) The state board of education shall establish the competencies and standards necessary for a teacher of record to be employed by a school district or public school.
(b) Initial teacher license. (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(II) of this section, the department, in its discretion, may issue an initial teacher license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds an earned baccalaureate degree from an accepted institution of higher education;
(B) Has completed an approved program of preparation for teachers or a one-year or two-year alternative teacher program;
(C) Has demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-203.
(II) The department of education, in its discretion, may issue an initial or a professional teacher license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds a valid initial or professional principal license or a valid initial or professional administrator license;
(B) Has previously held an initial teacher license.
(II.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2009, (SB 09-160), ch. 292, p. 1449, § 4, effective May 21, 2009.)
(III) (A) An initial teacher license is valid in any school districts or nonpublic schools that provide, or charter schools that provide or participate in, an approved induction program for teachers or have obtained a waiver of the approved induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(III)(B) of this section, any initial license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(b) is valid for a period of three years after the date of issuance and is renewable only once for an additional period of three years.
(B) If an initial teacher licensee is unable to complete an induction program for reasons other than incompetence, the state board of education may renew the licensee's initial teacher license for one or more additional three-year periods upon the initial licensee's showing of good cause for inability to complete an induction program.
(c) Professional teacher license. (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsections (1)(c)(II), (1)(c)(II.5), and (1)(c)(II.7) of this section, the department of education may, in its discretion, issue a professional teacher license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds a valid initial teacher license;
(B) Has completed an approved induction program and has been recommended for licensure by the school districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school that provided such induction program; except that the applicant need not complete an approved induction program as an initial teacher licensee if the applicant previously completed an induction program while teaching under an adjunct instructor authorization, an emergency authorization, or an interim authorization or if the school district or charter school in which the applicant is employed has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). If the applicant is employed by a school district, charter school, or nonpublic school that has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement, the applicant shall demonstrate completion of any requirements specified in the school district's, charter school's, or nonpublic school's plan for support, assistance, and training of initially licensed educators.
(C) Has demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 if the applicant received an initial teacher license without demonstrating professional competencies pursuant to sub-subparagraph (C) of subparagraph (I) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (1).
raining of initially licensed educators.
(C) Has demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 if the applicant received an initial teacher license without demonstrating professional competencies pursuant to sub-subparagraph (C) of subparagraph (I) of paragraph (b) of this subsection (1).
(II) The department may, in its discretion, issue a professional teacher license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds a valid initial or professional principal license or a valid initial or professional administrator license;
(B) Has previously held a professional teacher license issued pursuant to this article 60.5 or an equivalent certificate that was issued pursuant to article 60 of this title 22 prior to July 1, 1994; or
(C) Holds a certificate of apprenticeship completion from an approved teacher degree apprenticeship program pursuant to section 22-60.5-111.
(II.5) The department of education may issue a professional teacher license to any applicant who meets or exceeds the requirements specified in paragraph (b) of subsection (3) of this section.
(II.7) The department of education may issue a professional teacher license to an applicant who meets the requirements specified in section 22-60.5-111 (4)(c)(II) or (5)(e)(II).
(III) (A) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(c)(III)(B) of this section, any professional teacher license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(c)(III)(A) is valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable at its expiration pursuant to section 22-60.5-110. If, as of September 7, 2021, an individual has partially completed the individual's five-year professional teacher licensing period, the licensing period for that individual is extended to a seven-year period. The years that the individual already completed toward the five-year professional teacher licensing period will count toward the individual's new seven-year professional teacher licensing period.
(B) Any professional teacher license issued pursuant to this paragraph (c) which is held in conjunction with a master certificate pursuant to section 22-60.5-202 shall be valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable as provided in section 22-60.5-110.
(2) The state board of education is authorized to establish, by rule and regulation, such other requirements for licenses specified in subsection (1) of this section as it deems necessary to maintain and improve the quality of education instructional programs in the public schools of this state; except that the state board of education may not require any person who applies for a professional teacher license either while holding a valid initial teacher license or upon expiration of an initial teacher license to demonstrate professional competencies if said person demonstrated professional competencies prior to obtaining the initial teacher license.
(3) (a) The department of education may, at its discretion, issue an initial teacher license provided for in paragraph (b) of subsection (1) of this section to any applicant from another state or country whose qualifications meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of an initial teacher license.
onal competencies prior to obtaining the initial teacher license.
(3) (a) The department of education may, at its discretion, issue an initial teacher license provided for in paragraph (b) of subsection (1) of this section to any applicant from another state or country whose qualifications meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of an initial teacher license.
(b) (I) The department of education may issue a professional teacher license to any applicant from another state if:
(A) The applicant holds a license or certificate from that state that is comparable to a teacher license in this state and the standards for the issuance of such license or certificate meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of a professional teacher license; and
(B) The applicant has had at least three years of successful, evaluated experience within the previous seven years as a teacher in an established elementary or secondary school and can provide documentation of such experience on forms provided by the department.
(II) An applicant for a professional teacher license pursuant to this paragraph (b) need not have:
(A) Completed an approved induction program for teachers;
(B) Held an initial teacher license pursuant to paragraph (b) of subsection (1) of this section; or
(C) Demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-203.
(III) Repealed.
(c) In an area deemed by the state board of education to be a shortage area, the state board of education shall establish reasonable criteria, including the recognition of experience as a licensed or certificated teacher, for the issuance of an initial teacher license to any applicant from another state or country.
(d) An applicant for an initial teacher license who has three years or more of teaching experience in another state or country for which the department of education has granted reciprocity pursuant to this subsection (3) shall be licensed without having to demonstrate professional competencies pursuant to section 22-60.5-203 if such person meets all the other qualifications for an initial teacher license or professional teacher license and if such person is qualified to teach in that state or country.
(3.5) The department of education may, at its discretion, issue a professional license provided for in paragraph (c) of subsection (1) of this section to any applicant who is certified by a nationally recognized teacher certification organization that is approved by the state board of education.
(4) The state board of education is authorized to enter into interstate reciprocal agreements in which the department of education agrees to issue initial teacher licenses to persons licensed to teach in another state.
(5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2006, p. 637, § 50, effective August 7, 2006.)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-202 Professional teacher licensees - master certification
22-60.5-202. Professional teacher licensees - master certification. The department of education may, in its discretion, issue a master certificate to any applicant who holds a valid professional teacher license and who meets the criteria for master certification as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education. Master certification shall recognize those professional teacher licensees who are involved in ongoing professional development and training and who have advanced competencies or expertise or who have demonstrated outstanding achievements. Any master certificate issued pursuant to this section shall be valid for the period of time for which the applicant's professional teacher license is valid and is renewable at its expiration.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-203 Assessment of professional competencies - multiple measures to assess professional competencies - rules
22-60.5-203. Assessment of professional competencies - multiple measures to assess professional competencies - rules. (1) The state board of education shall, by rule, establish areas of knowledge in which initial teacher licensees shall possess a satisfactory level of proficiency.
(2) The state board by rule shall identify the professional competencies required of the applicants described in subsection (3) of this section specifically in the context of the requirements of standards-based education pursuant to the requirements of part 10 of article 7 of this title. Such professional competencies apply to an applicant only within the scope of the subject matter to be taught by the applicant.
(3) (a) Beginning in the 2023-24 academic year, applicants for initial teacher licenses, and applicants for professional teacher licenses who did not demonstrate professional competencies prior to obtaining an initial teacher license, may demonstrate professional competencies by:
(I) Successfully completing an approved content-based or performance-based assessment;
(II) Successfully completing an examination by a review panel of an approved portfolio of course work;
(III) Submitting evidence of achieving sufficiently high education course work grades on course work aligned with relevant standards; or
(IV) A combination of the methods described in subsections (3)(a)(I), (3)(a)(II), and (3)(a)(III) of this section.
(b) The review panel may examine a portfolio of course work, as described in subsection (3)(a)(II) of this section, for up to one thousand applicants for initial teacher licenses. The review panel shall not examine a portfolio of course work for more than one thousand applicants for initial teacher licenses.
(c) The department, in collaboration with the department of higher education, institutions of higher education, as defined in section 23-3.9-301 (8), the state board for community colleges and occupational education created in section 23-60-104, and school districts, shall recommend to the state board of education standards and procedures necessary to implement the multiple measures of professional competencies set forth in subsection (3)(a) of this section. Recommendations may include a definition of "sufficiently high education course work grades" and the process for a review panel to examine a portfolio of course work. In recommending standards and procedures to the state board of education, the department shall consider feedback from stakeholders in the education community.
(d) The department may recommend to the state board of education existing programs, resources, and materials that are available to the department for the implementation of the multiple measures of professional competencies set forth in subsection (3)(a) of this section.
(e) The state board of education shall promulgate rules to establish the standards and procedures to measure professional competencies through the multiple measures set forth in subsection (3)(a) of this section.
resources, and materials that are available to the department for the implementation of the multiple measures of professional competencies set forth in subsection (3)(a) of this section.
(e) The state board of education shall promulgate rules to establish the standards and procedures to measure professional competencies through the multiple measures set forth in subsection (3)(a) of this section.
(f) Beginning in January 2025, and in January every year thereafter, the department shall include as part of its "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203 information concerning:
(I) The total number of panelists hired to sit on a review panel to examine portfolios of course work;
(II) The total number of hours the review panel reviews educator portfolios;
(III) The total number of educator candidates who submit a portfolio of course work for examination by the review panel;
(IV) The total number of educator candidates who submit evidence of achieving sufficiently high education course work grades on course work aligned with relevant standards;
(V) The total number of educator candidates who complete an approved content-based assessment;
(VI) The total number of educator candidates who complete an approved performance-based assessment; and
(VII) The total number of educator candidates who demonstrate professional competencies by a combination of the methods described in subsection (3)(a) of this section.
(g) The provisions of this subsection (3) do not affect the teacher training requirements specified in section 22-7-1208 (6).
(4) The state board of education shall annually review the program for measuring professional competencies developed pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section to assure the appropriateness of the assessments and the standards established to determine a satisfactory level of proficiency.
(5) The state board of education shall, by rule, establish common credit hour standards for all approved educator preparation programs for the purpose of satisfying subsection (6) of this section.
(6) For purposes of establishing minimum competency in a licensure endorsement area, the state board of education shall establish minimum course work standards that align with the quality standards established by the state board of education pursuant to section 22-2-109 (3). Attainment of the minimum course work standards may be shown in one of the following ways:
(a) For early childhood education, early childhood special education, and elementary teachers, including special education generalist teachers, demonstration of competencies using the multiple measures set forth in subsection (3)(a) of this section;
(b) For secondary teachers:
(I) A degree in the endorsement area;
(II) Demonstration of competencies using the multiple measures set forth in subsection (3)(a) of this section; or
(III) Twenty-four hours of course work in the endorsement area.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-204 Approved induction program - initial teacher licensee
22-60.5-204. Approved induction program - initial teacher licensee. (1) Any approved induction program of a school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school for initial teacher licensees may include, but is not limited to, supervision by mentor teachers; ongoing professional development and training, including ethics; and performance evaluations. Such school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school may enter into agreements with accepted institutions of higher education in regard to the organization, management, and operation of an approved induction program, or any portion thereof. The school district's or districts' performance evaluations must be conducted in accordance with section 22-9-106; however, the state board of education may provide by rule for performance evaluations by mentor teachers.
(2) The approved induction program of any individual initial teacher licensee may be extended if deemed necessary by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing such program; however, such program shall not exceed a maximum of three years.
(3) The state board of education shall, by rule and regulation, establish standards and criteria for the approval of proposed induction programs for initial teacher licensees and for the review of approved induction programs for initial teacher licensees. Such rules and regulations shall provide for such standards and criteria to be fully implemented on and after July 1, 1999, and shall provide for the gradual implementation of such standards and criteria over the five-year period prior to said date. Such standards and criteria shall, at a minimum, provide multiple approaches and options in regard to the provision of approved induction programs which take into consideration factors which the state board of education deems relevant and appropriate. Such factors shall include, but shall not be limited to, the setting categories and geographical location of school districts, the cost of providing approved induction programs, and the availability of state moneys to fund, in whole or in part, approved induction programs.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-205 One-year and two-year alternative teacher programs - standards and evaluation - duties of department - duties of the state board of education - fees - rules - legislative declaration
22-60.5-205. One-year and two-year alternative teacher programs - standards and evaluation - duties of department - duties of the state board of education - fees - rules - legislative declaration. (1) (a) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:
(I) Many school districts face a shortage of teachers and often struggle to find qualified persons to teach their students;
(II) The increased use of emergency authorizations to hire persons who do not have teacher licenses and, in some cases, have not received any form of teacher preparation or education potentially jeopardizes a school district's goal of providing a quality education for each student; and
(III) Often, persons with experience in areas other than education can help alleviate the teacher shortage faced by many school districts, so long as these persons receive adequate supervision and education in teaching methods and practices.
(b) The general assembly therefore declares that it is in the best interest of the state of Colorado to allow designated agencies to create one-year and two-year alternative teacher programs pursuant to the provisions of this section with the intent that these programs provide a vehicle for designated agencies to customize the preparation of teacher candidates, reduce the number of persons employed under emergency authorizations, and help designated agencies recruit and employ nontraditional teacher candidates, while maintaining teacher preparation program standards, delivering high-quality educational services, and protecting the interests of students.
(2) Designated agencies are authorized to implement one-year alternative teacher programs or two-year alternative teacher programs, which two-year programs were formerly known as teacher in residence programs, as follows:
(a) A one-year alternative teacher program shall be designed to be completed within one year. However, the employing school district, nonpublic school, charter school, or the institute may extend an alternative teacher's participation for one additional year based on unforeseen circumstances and the expectation that the alternative teacher will complete the program in the second year.
(b) An alternative teacher program shall include, but need not be limited to, supervision by mentor teachers, performance evaluations, and a program minimum of two hundred twenty-five clock hours of planned instruction and activities, which shall include training in dropout prevention. The total number of hours of planned instruction and activities may be modified by the alternative teacher support team, as described in section 22-60.5-206, for an alternative teacher based upon his or her qualifications, knowledge, and experience.
(c) A designated agency that chooses to implement an alternative teacher program may collaborate and contract with an entity that provides an approved educator preparation program. A contract entered into pursuant to this subsection (2)(c) must include, but need not be limited to, the provision of educator preparation courses and subject matter courses as necessary to comply with the educator preparation program requirements established by the department pursuant to section 22-60.5-121.
orate and contract with an entity that provides an approved educator preparation program. A contract entered into pursuant to this subsection (2)(c) must include, but need not be limited to, the provision of educator preparation courses and subject matter courses as necessary to comply with the educator preparation program requirements established by the department pursuant to section 22-60.5-121.
(d) (I) A person employed as an alternative teacher must hold an alternative teacher license issued pursuant to section 22-60.5-201 (1)(a), or an interim authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (7). Except as otherwise provided in subsection (2)(d)(II) of this section and section 22-60.5-207 (2), a person may be employed as an alternative teacher for a total of two years. A person employed as an alternative teacher must meet the content-area education requirements specified by rule of the state board of education.
(II) A person may be employed as an alternative teacher for a total of three years for the purpose of receiving a special education teaching endorsement pursuant to section 22-60.5-106 (2).
(III) (A) A person with a professional teacher license may continue in the person's current position while participating in an alternative teacher preparation program for the purpose of receiving a special education teaching endorsement pursuant to section 22-60.5-106 (2).
(B) The state board of education shall promulgate rules to establish the amount and type of experience working with students with disabilities a professional teacher participating in an alternate teacher preparation program must complete to receive a special education teaching endorsement pursuant to section 22-60.5-106 (2).
(e) Upon completing an alternative teacher program, the alternative teacher shall obtain an initial teacher license pursuant to section 22-60.5-201 (1)(b)(I) in order to be employed by a school district as a teacher.
(f) An alternative teacher shall complete his or her induction program prior to receiving a professional license.
(g) (I) Within thirty days after employing a person as an alternative teacher, a school district, nonpublic school, or charter school shall notify the department of the alternative teacher's name, address, and any other information that may be necessary to assist the department in providing pertinent information under the requirements of subsection (2)(g)(II) of this section.
(II) The department shall provide information to each alternative teacher concerning the requirements for teacher licensure as specified in section 22-60.5-201 and by rule of the state board of education.
(h) An alternative teacher program must meet the quality standards adopted by the state board of education pursuant to section 22-2-109 (3).
(i) An alternative teacher program must include course work that provides alternative teachers with an overview of Title II of the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; section 504 of the federal "Rehabilitation Act of 1973", 29 U.S.C. sec. 701 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; the "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; individualized education programs; and child find and that teaches effective special education classroom practices, including but not limited to inclusive learning environments.
litation Act of 1973", 29 U.S.C. sec. 701 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; the "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; individualized education programs; and child find and that teaches effective special education classroom practices, including but not limited to inclusive learning environments.
(3) (a) A designated agency that chooses to implement an alternative teacher program pursuant to the provisions of subsection (2) of this section shall notify the department and submit a description of the alternative teacher program to the department. The department shall review the alternative teacher program to ensure that it meets the requirements specified in subsection (2) of this section and shall recommend to the state board of education approval or disapproval of the alternative teacher program. Within ninety days after the designated agency submits the alternative teacher program description to the department, the state board of education shall notify the implementing designated agency that it has either approved or disapproved the alternative teacher program.
(b) (I) The state board of education shall, at its discretion, approve an application by a designated agency seeking to provide an alternative teacher program. The application must meet the requirements of this section and any rules established by the state board of education. The state board of education is authorized to resolve any differences that may arise between school districts and accepted institutions of higher education regarding alternative teacher programs.
(II) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the state board of education is authorized, for good cause, to waive any requirements imposed by law regarding a designated agency's alternative teacher program if, in its discretion, it deems the waiver necessary to accomplish the purposes of this section.
(4) The department shall:
(a) Provide technical assistance upon request to all designated agencies as necessary to implement the provisions of this section; and
(b) Review and submit to the state board of education for approval all applications made by designated agencies to provide alternative teacher programs pursuant to subsection (3) of this section.
(5) Not more than every five years, the department shall perform an on-site evaluation of each alternative teacher program to ensure that it meets the requirements of this section. An alternative teacher program that does not meet the requirements of this section shall be subject to disapproval by the state board of education. An alternative teacher program that is disapproved by the state board of education shall be terminated by the implementing designated agency on completion of the academic year in which the alternative teacher program is disapproved; except that the designated agency may continue to operate the alternative teacher program if, prior to the end of said academic year, the designated agency redesigns the alternative teacher program to meet the requirements of this section and the state board of education approves the redesigned alternative teacher program.
(6) A designated agency that is not an institution of higher education may charge an alternative teacher in an alternative teacher program a fee in such amount as to generate sufficient revenue to offset the direct and indirect costs to the designated agency for the development and administration of the alternative teacher program. Any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this subsection (6) shall be used for the purposes set forth in this section and shall not be expended for any other purpose.
an alternative teacher program a fee in such amount as to generate sufficient revenue to offset the direct and indirect costs to the designated agency for the development and administration of the alternative teacher program. Any fees collected pursuant to the provisions of this subsection (6) shall be used for the purposes set forth in this section and shall not be expended for any other purpose.
(7) A designated agency that is an institution of higher education may establish program fees in accordance with its existing policies. A public institution of higher education shall establish program fees in accordance with existing state laws and rules established by the Colorado commission on higher education.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-206 Alternative teacher support teams - duties - advisory councils
22-60.5-206. Alternative teacher support teams - duties - advisory councils. (1) The designated agency shall establish an alternative teacher support team for each person who holds an alternative teacher license, or an interim authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (7), who is employed as an alternative teacher through an alternative teacher program. At a minimum, each alternative teacher support team must include an alternative teacher's mentor teacher and the principal and a representative of an accepted institution of higher education, if applicable.
(2) The alternative teacher support team shall:
(a) Establish the content of the required program of planned instruction and activities;
(b) Determine at what point in the program an alternative teacher may have responsibility for classroom instruction;
(c) Ensure that a significant portion of the teaching assignment of an alternative teacher is in the subject matter area or areas of the alternative teacher's endorsement;
(d) Evaluate the progress and effectiveness of an alternative teacher; and
(e) Make a recommendation to the school district that employs an alternative teacher concerning the alternative teacher's eligibility to receive an initial teacher license or whether the alternative teacher is unable to complete the one-year alternative teacher program due to unforeseen circumstances, but should apply for an extension of the alternative teacher license, or an interim authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (7), with the expectation that the alternative teacher will complete the program within one additional year.
(3) As a member of an alternative teacher support team, the mentor teacher has primary responsibility for representing the faculty and parents in evaluating and making recommendations regarding the issuance of an initial teacher license to an alternative teacher or renewal of an alternative teacher license, or an interim authorization pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (7), for one additional year. In recognition of the significant duties and responsibilities of mentor teachers, the designating school district shall make appropriate provisions as are necessary to ensure the proper discharge of the duties and responsibilities by the mentor teacher.
(4) In addition, for purposes of carrying out any alternative teacher program approved by the state board of education, any designated agency shall establish an advisory council that includes, at a minimum, representatives of each school district, including at least one mentor teacher and a representative of an accepted institution of higher education in the designated agency.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-207 Alternative teacher contracts
22-60.5-207. Alternative teacher contracts. (1) Alternative teacher contracts may include terms and conditions that:
(a) Differ from any terms and conditions of contracts of the school district or charter school for first-year employees who are licensed other than as alternative teachers;
(b) Define those conditions unique to the responsibilities and duties of an alternative teacher and the alternative teacher program of the school district or charter school;
(c) Establish the right of the employing school district or charter school to terminate the alternative teacher contract at any time during the first three months of employment; however, the employing school district or charter school must only take such action after consideration of a recommendation of the alternative teacher support team for the alternative teacher and is not subject to appeal by the alternative teacher.
(2) The term of an alternative teacher contract shall be for one or two years; except that an employing school district, nonpublic school, or charter school may extend a one-year alternative teacher contract for only one additional year based on written evidence of unforeseen circumstances that prevent the alternative teacher from completing the one-year alternative teacher program in one year and the expectation of the alternative teacher's support team that he or she can complete the one-year alternative teacher program in one additional year.
(3) The provisions of this section do not apply to alternative teacher contracts entered into by nonpublic schools.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-208 Minority alternative teachers - fellowship program - minority alternative teacher fund - created
22-60.5-208. Minority alternative teachers - fellowship program - minority alternative teacher fund - created. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-208.5 Grow your own educator program - authorization - duties - rules - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal
22-60.5-208.5. Grow your own educator program - authorization - duties - rules - legislative declaration - definitions - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-208.7 Teacher of record program - rules - authorization - definition
22-60.5-208.7. Teacher of record program - rules - authorization - definition. (1) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires, "local education provider" means a school district, a charter school authorized by a school district pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of this title 22, a charter school authorized by the state charter school institute pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of this title 22, or a board of cooperative services created and operating pursuant to article 5 of this title 22 that operates a public school.
(2) A local education provider is authorized to implement a one- or two-year teacher of record program and may only employ a teacher of record if the local education provider has determined that there is a critical teacher shortage and if there are no other qualified, licensed applicants for a vacant position. The state board of education shall establish rules and policies governing a teacher of record program established pursuant to this section.
(3) A student employed in a teacher of record program established pursuant to this section shall hold a teacher of record license issued pursuant to section 22-60.5-201 (1)(a.5).
(4) To assist the teacher of record in meeting the quality standards adopted by the state board of education pursuant to section 22-2-109 (3), a teacher of record program must include, at a minimum:
(a) Direct and regular supervision by mentor teachers;
(b) Performance evaluations; and
(c) The teacher preparation program or teacher support services to be provided to teachers of record as agreed upon by the local education provider and the institution of higher education.
(5) A local education provider must include the teacher of record in the local education provider's induction program and other supports provided by the local education provider. If the teacher of record successfully completes an induction program, the teacher of record may apply completion of the induction program toward meeting the requirements for a professional teacher license.
(6) A local education provider shall treat a teacher of record as a first-year teacher for purposes of compensation and placement on a teacher salary schedule.
(7) (a) No later than September 30 each year, the department shall report to the education committees of the house of representatives and the senate, or any successor committees, information relating to teacher of record programs, which information must include, at a minimum:
(I) The number of students participating in a teacher of record program, including the local education providers with whom the students are employed;
(II) The institutions of higher education attended by the students;
(III) The percentage of students who complete a bachelor's degree within the two-year teacher of record license period; and
(IV) Demographic information relating to students who participate in a teacher of record program to gauge the success at recruiting demographically underrepresented groups to the education profession.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the department shall report the information described in subsection (7)(a) of this section in each year in which students are participating in teacher of record programs.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-209 Department of education - report to general assembly
22-60.5-209. Department of education - report to general assembly. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-209.1 Department of education - adjunct instructor authorization - alternative teacher programs - information
22-60.5-209.1. Department of education - adjunct instructor authorization - alternative teacher programs - information. (1) (a) The department shall direct resources toward publicizing the existence of:
(I) The teacher recruitment education and preparation program established in section 22-35-108.5;
(II) The teacher residency programs available through the teacher residency expansion program created in part 1 of article 60.3 of this title 22;
(III) Programs to support paraprofessionals, as defined in section 22-60.3-102, who are seeking a baccalaureate degree to pursue a professional teaching license;
(IV) The educator recruitment and retention program created in section 22-60.3-202;
(V) The adjunct instructor authorization described in section 22-60.5-111 (2);
(VI) Alternative teacher programs described in section 22-60.5-205;
(VII) The teacher of record program described in section 22-60.5-208.7;
(VIII) Programs for student teachers in rural areas operated pursuant to section 23-76-104;
(IX) The teacher cadet program described in section 23-76-105;
(X) Teaching fellowship programs operated pursuant to part 3 of article 78 of title 23;
(XI) The educator loan forgiveness program operated pursuant to section 23-3.9-102; and
(XII) Other existing public or nonprofit programs that facilitate entry into the teaching profession.
(b) In publicizing the programs, the department shall collaborate with nonprofit organizations that support entry into the teaching profession.
(2) The department shall provide technical support to school districts, boards of cooperative services, and charter schools to assist them in accessing the programs described in subsection (1) of this section and in otherwise recruiting individuals to pursue teaching careers.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-210 Types of special services licenses issued - term
22-60.5-210. Types of special services licenses issued - term. (1) The department of education is designated as the sole agency authorized to issue the following types of special services licenses to persons of good moral character:
(a) Initial special services license. (I) The department of education, in its discretion, may issue an initial special services license to any applicant who:
(A) Has been awarded an appropriate degree from an institution of higher education;
(B) Has met the standards of the state board of education concerning academic and professional preparation and experience and performance as appropriate for the subject matter area or areas for which such initial special services license is to be endorsed;
(C) Has demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-212.
(II) An initial special services license shall be valid in any school districts or nonpublic schools that provide, or charter schools that provide or participate in, an approved induction program for special services providers or have obtained a waiver of the approved induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). Any initial special services license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(a) is valid for a period of three years after the date of issuance and is renewable only once for an additional period of three years; except that, if an initial special services licensee is unable to complete an induction program for reasons other than incompetence, the state board of education may renew the licensee's initial special services license for one or more additional three-year periods upon the initial licensee's showing of good cause for inability to complete an approved induction program.
(III) For purposes of this paragraph (a), in establishing standards pursuant to sub-subparagraph (B) of subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (a) concerning academic and professional preparation and experience and performance with regard to school psychologists, school social workers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and school nurses, the state board of education shall not require an applicant for an initial special services license who holds a valid Colorado license or registration or valid national certificate to take and achieve a passing score on an assessment of basic skills.
(b) Professional special services license. (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(I.5) of this section, the department of education may, in its discretion, issue a professional special services license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds a valid initial special services license; and
(B) Has completed an approved induction program for special services providers and has been recommended for licensure by the school district, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school that provided such induction program; except that the applicant need not complete an approved induction program as an initial special services licensee if the applicant previously completed an induction program while employed under an emergency authorization or a temporary educator eligibility authorization or if the school district or charter school in which the applicant is employed has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). If the applicant is employed by a school district, charter school, nonpublic school, or the institute that has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement, the applicant shall demonstrate completion of any requirements specified in the school district's, charter school's, or nonpublic school's plan for support, assistance, and training of initially licensed educators.
(I.5) The department of education may issue a professional special services license to an applicant who meets the requirements specified in section 22-60.5-111 (4)(c)(II) or (5)(e)(II).
he applicant shall demonstrate completion of any requirements specified in the school district's, charter school's, or nonpublic school's plan for support, assistance, and training of initially licensed educators.
(I.5) The department of education may issue a professional special services license to an applicant who meets the requirements specified in section 22-60.5-111 (4)(c)(II) or (5)(e)(II).
(II) (A) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(II)(B) of this section, any professional special services license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(b)(II)(A) is valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable pursuant to section 22-60.5-110. If, as of September 7, 2021, an individual has partially completed the individual's five-year professional special services licensing period, the licensing period for that individual is extended to a seven-year period. The years that the individual already completed toward the five-year professional special services licensing period will count toward the individual's new seven-year professional special services licensing period.
(B) Any professional special services license issued pursuant to this paragraph (b) which is held in conjunction with a master certificate pursuant to section 22-60.5-211 shall be valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable as provided in section 22-60.5-110.
(2) The state board of education is authorized to establish, by rule and regulation, such other requirements for licenses specified in subsection (1) of this section as it deems necessary to maintain and improve the quality of administration and supervision of education instructional programs; except that the state board of education may not require any person applying for a professional special services license to demonstrate professional competencies.
(3) (a) The department of education may, at its discretion, issue an initial special services license provided for in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section to any applicant from another state or country whose qualifications meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of an initial special services license.
(b) (I) The department of education may issue a professional special services license to any applicant from another state if:
(A) The applicant holds a license or certificate from that state that is comparable to a special services license in this state and the standards for the issuance of such license or certificate meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of a professional special services license; and
(B) The applicant has had at least three years of successful, evaluated experience within the previous seven years as a special services provider in an established elementary or secondary school and can provide documentation of such experience on forms provided by the department.
(II) An applicant for a professional special services license pursuant to this paragraph (b) need not have:
(A) Completed an approved induction program for special services providers;
(B) Held an initial special services license pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section; or
(C) Demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-212.
(III) Repealed.
(4) The state board of education is authorized to enter into interstate reciprocal agreements in which the department of education agrees to issue initial special services licenses to persons licensed as special services providers in another state.
(5) Repealed.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-211 Professional special services licensees - master certification
22-60.5-211. Professional special services licensees - master certification. The department of education may, in its discretion, issue a master certificate to any applicant who holds a valid professional special services license and who meets the criteria for master certification as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education. Master certification shall recognize those professional special services licensees who are involved in ongoing professional development and training and who have advanced competencies or expertise or who have demonstrated outstanding achievements. Any master certificate issued pursuant to this section shall be valid for the period of time for which the applicant's professional special services license is valid and is renewable at its expiration.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-212 Assessment of professional competencies
22-60.5-212. Assessment of professional competencies. (1) The state board of education shall, by rule and regulation, establish areas of knowledge in which initial special services licensees shall possess a satisfactory level of proficiency.
(2) The department of education shall develop and administer, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the state board of education, a system for the assessment of such professional competencies of applicants for initial special services licenses.
(3) The state board of education shall annually review the assessment program developed pursuant to subsection (2) of this section to assure the appropriateness of the assessments and the standards established to determine a satisfactory level of proficiency.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-213 Approved induction programs - initial special services licensees
22-60.5-213. Approved induction programs - initial special services licensees. (1) Any approved induction program of a school district or districts, charter school, or nonpublic school for initial special services licensees may include, but shall not be limited to, supervision by mentor special services providers; ongoing professional development and training, including ethics; and performance evaluations. Such school district or districts, charter schools, the institute, or nonpublic schools may enter into agreements with accepted institutions of higher education in regard to the organization, management, and operation of an approved induction program, or any portion thereof. The school district's or districts' performance evaluations must be conducted in accordance with section 22-9-106; however, the state board of education may provide by rule for performance evaluations by mentor special services providers.
(2) The approved induction program of any initial special services licensee may be extended if deemed necessary by the school district or districts, charter school, or nonpublic school providing such program; however, such program shall not be extended so that such program exceeds three years.
(3) The state board of education shall, by rule and regulation, establish standards and criteria for the approval of proposed induction programs for initial special services licensees and for the review of approved induction programs for initial special services licensees. Such rules and regulations shall provide for such standards and criteria to be fully implemented on and after July 1, 1999, and shall provide for the gradual implementation of such standards and criteria over the five-year period prior to said date. Such standards and criteria shall, at a minimum, provide multiple approaches and options in regard to the provision of approved induction programs which take into consideration factors which the state board of education deems appropriate. Such factors shall include, but shall not be limited to, the setting categories and geographical location of school districts, the costs of providing approved induction programs, and the availability of state moneys to fund, in whole or in part, approved induction programs.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-214 Teacher and special services professional standards board - creation - membership - repeal
22-60.5-214. Teacher and special services professional standards board - creation - membership - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-215 Powers and duties of the teacher and special services professional standards board - repeal
22-60.5-215. Powers and duties of the teacher and special services professional standards board - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-216 Teacher and special services professional standards board - annual joint meeting - repeal
22-60.5-216. Teacher and special services professional standards board - annual joint meeting - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-217 Teacher and special services professional standards board - examination for basic competencies
22-60.5-217. Teacher and special services professional standards board - examination for basic competencies. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-218 Employment of certain school-based therapists - legislative declaration - definitions
22-60.5-218. Employment of certain school-based therapists - legislative declaration - definitions. (1) The general assembly finds and declares that:
(a) In 2021, children's hospital in Colorado declared a youth mental health state of emergency and in 2022 said that conditions are worse;
(b) In 2022, the centers for disease control and prevention released a survey that found that forty-four percent of high school students reported that they felt persistently sad or hopeless during the past year and that schools are crucial partners in supporting the health and well-being of students;
(c) The complex and time-consuming process for school-based therapists to receive a special services license from the department of education prevents schools and school districts from employing school-based therapists who might otherwise help students;
(d) School-based therapists are already licensed by various state boards in the department of regulatory affairs; and
(e) Students can be protected by requiring school-based therapists employed in schools to submit to fingerprint-based criminal history background checks and to be supervised by administrators who are licensed by the department of education.
(2) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
(a) "Eligible school-based therapist" means a person who meets the eligibility requirements described in subsection (4) of this section and who is a:
(I) Psychologist licensed pursuant to part 3 of article 245 of title 12;
(II) Social worker licensed pursuant to part 4 of article 245 of title 12;
(III) Marriage and family therapist licensed pursuant to part 5 of article 245 of title 12;
(IV) Licensed professional counselor licensed pursuant to part 6 of article 245 of title 12; or
(V) Addiction counselor licensed pursuant to part 8 of article 245 of title 12.
(b) "School" means a school of a school district, a charter school authorized by a school district pursuant to part 1 of article 30.5 of this title 22, a charter school authorized by the state charter school institute pursuant to part 5 of article 30.5 of this title 22, or the Colorado school for the deaf and the blind.
(c) "School district" means a school district organized and existing pursuant to law. "School district" includes the state charter school institute, a board of cooperative services that operates a school, and schools operated by the division of youth services.
(3) Notwithstanding any provision of this article 60.5 to the contrary, and subject to the requirements of this section, a school or a school district may employ an eligible school-based therapist to work in coordination with licensed special service providers at the school or school district coordinating mental health supports for students. A person employed as an eligible school-based therapist may be supervised by a special services provider with a school counselor endorsement or an administrator licensed pursuant to section 22-60.5-306. When hiring an eligible school-based therapist, schools and school districts should ensure that the therapist has a background and expertise in working with children and adolescents. An eligible school-based therapist should supplement and not replace or supplant a special services provider.
(4) Prior to employment, the school or a school district and an eligible school-based therapist shall comply with the requirements of section 22-32-109.8, including the requirement for the eligible school-based therapist to submit fingerprints.
(5) If an eligible school-based therapist provides services to a student related to the student's individualized education program, as developed pursuant to part 1 of article 20 of this title 22, the eligible school-based therapist must have qualifications consistent with the student's individualized education program.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-301 Types of principal licenses issued - term
22-60.5-301. Types of principal licenses issued - term. (1) The department of education is designated as the sole agency authorized to issue the following principal licenses to persons of good moral character:
(a) Initial principal license. (I) The department of education, in its discretion, may issue an initial principal license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds an earned baccalaureate degree from an accepted institution of higher education;
(B) Has completed an approved program of preparation for principals;
(C) Has completed three or more years of successful experience working with students as a licensed or certificated professional in a public or nonpublic elementary or secondary school in this state or another state or has three or more years of experience working with students as a professional in a nonpublic school;
(D) Has demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-303.
(II) An initial principal license is valid in any school districts or nonpublic schools that provide, or charter schools that provide or participate in, an approved induction program for principals or have obtained a waiver of the approved induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). Any initial principal license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(a) is valid for a period of three years after the date of issuance and is renewable only once for an additional period of three years; except that, if an initial principal licensee is unable to complete an induction program for reasons other than incompetence, the state board of education may renew the licensee's initial principal license for one or more additional three-year periods upon the initial licensee's showing of good cause for inability to complete an approved induction program.
(b) Professional principal license. (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(I.5) of this section, the department of education may, in its discretion, issue a professional principal license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds an earned master's degree from an accepted institution of higher education;
(B) Holds a valid initial principal license; and
(C) Has completed an approved induction program for principals and has been recommended for licensure by the school districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school that provided such induction program; except that the applicant need not complete an approved induction program as an initial principal licensee if the applicant previously completed an induction program while employed under an emergency authorization or a principal authorization or if the school district or charter school in which the applicant is employed has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). If the applicant is employed by a school district, charter school, or nonpublic school that has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement, the applicant shall demonstrate completion of any requirements specified in the school district's, charter school's, the institute's, or nonpublic school's plan for support, assistance, and training of initially licensed educators.
(I.5) The department of education may issue a professional principal license to an applicant who meets the requirements specified in section 22-60.5-111 (4)(c)(II) or (14)(e)(II).
t shall demonstrate completion of any requirements specified in the school district's, charter school's, the institute's, or nonpublic school's plan for support, assistance, and training of initially licensed educators.
(I.5) The department of education may issue a professional principal license to an applicant who meets the requirements specified in section 22-60.5-111 (4)(c)(II) or (14)(e)(II).
(II) (A) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(II)(B) of this section, any professional principal license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(b)(II)(A) is valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable pursuant to section 22-60.5-110. If, as of September 7, 2021, an individual has partially completed the individual's five-year professional principal licensing period, the licensing period for that individual is extended to a seven-year period. The years that the individual already completed toward the five-year professional principal licensing period will count toward the individual's new seven-year professional principal licensing period.
(B) Any professional principal license issued pursuant to this paragraph (b) which is held in conjunction with a master certificate pursuant to section 22-60.5-302 shall be valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable as provided in section 22-60.5-110.
(2) The state board of education is authorized to establish, by rule and regulation, such other requirements for licenses specified in subsection (1) of this section as it deems necessary to maintain and improve the quality of administration and supervision of education instructional programs in this state; except that the state board of education may not require any person applying for a professional principal license to demonstrate professional competencies.
(3) (a) The department of education may, at its discretion, issue an initial principal license provided for in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section to any applicant from another state or country whose qualifications meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of an initial principal license.
(b) (I) The department of education may issue a professional principal license to any applicant from another state if:
(A) The applicant holds a license or certificate from that state that is comparable to a principal license in this state and the standards for the issuance of such license or certificate meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of a professional principal license; and
(B) The applicant has had at least three years of continuous, successful, evaluated experience as a principal in an established elementary or secondary school and can provide documentation of such experience on forms provided by the department.
(II) An applicant for a professional principal license pursuant to this paragraph (b) need not have:
(A) Completed an approved induction program for principals;
(B) Held an initial principal license pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section; or
(C) Demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-303.
(4) The state board of education is authorized to enter into interstate reciprocal agreements in which the department of education agrees to issue initial principal licenses to persons licensed as principals in other states.
(5) Repealed.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-302 Professional principal licensees - master certification
22-60.5-302. Professional principal licensees - master certification. The department of education may, in its discretion, issue a master certificate to any applicant who holds a valid professional principal license and who meets the criteria for master certification as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education. Master certification shall recognize those professional principal licensees who are involved in ongoing professional development and training and who have advanced competencies or expertise or who have demonstrated outstanding achievements. Any master certificate issued pursuant to this section shall be valid for the period of time for which the applicant's professional principal license is valid and is renewable at its expiration.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-303 Assessment of professional competencies
22-60.5-303. Assessment of professional competencies. (1) The state board of education shall, by rule and regulation, establish areas of knowledge in which initial principal licensees shall possess a satisfactory level of proficiency.
(2) The following list of areas of knowledge is a guideline to be used by the state board of education and shall not be construed as inclusive or prescriptive:
(a) Leadership;
(b) Communication and human relations, including the ability to respond to the needs of students and parents from culturally diverse backgrounds;
(c) Instruction, including curriculum, design, and assessment;
(d) Problem-solving and decision-making;
(e) Management, including planning, organization, and administration;
(f) Personnel administration, including staff development and evaluation;
(g) Child growth and development; and
(h) Knowledge and application of standards-based education pursuant to part 10 of article 7 of this title.
(3) The department of education shall develop and administer, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the state board of education, a system for the assessment of such professional competencies of applicants for initial principal licenses.
(4) The state board of education shall annually review the assessment program developed pursuant to subsection (3) of this section to assure the appropriateness of the assessments and the standards established to determine a satisfactory level of proficiency.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-304 Approved induction programs - initial principal licensees
22-60.5-304. Approved induction programs - initial principal licensees. (1) Any approved induction program of a school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school for initial principal licensees may include, but is not limited to, supervision by mentor principals; ongoing professional development and training, including ethics; and performance evaluations. Such school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school may enter into agreements with accepted institutions of higher education in regard to the organization, management, and operation of an approved induction program, or any portion thereof. The school district's or districts' performance evaluations must be conducted in accordance with section 22-9-106; however, the state board of education may provide by rule for performance evaluations by mentor principals.
(2) The approved induction program of any individual initial principal licensee may be extended if deemed necessary by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing such program; however, such program shall not exceed a maximum of three years.
(3) (a) The state board of education shall, by rule and regulation, establish standards and criteria for the approval of proposed induction programs for initial principal licensees and for the review of approved induction programs for initial principal licensees. Such rules and regulations shall provide for such standards and criteria to be fully implemented on and after July 1, 1999, and shall provide for the gradual implementation of such standards and criteria over the five-year period prior to said date. Such standards and criteria shall, at a minimum, provide multiple approaches and options in regard to the provision of approved induction programs which take into consideration factors which the state board of education deems appropriate. Such factors shall include, but shall not be limited to, the setting categories and geographical location of school districts, the costs of providing approved induction programs, and the availability of state moneys to fund, in whole or in part, approved induction programs.
(b) Repealed.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-305 Licensed principals - occasional teaching
22-60.5-305. Licensed principals - occasional teaching. Any principal who holds a valid initial or professional principal license pursuant to this part 3 and who, on occasion, functions as a teacher shall not be required to hold a valid initial or professional teacher license pursuant to part 2 of this article. The state board of education shall establish, by rule and regulation, what constitutes occasional teaching for purposes of this section.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-305.5 Alternative principal preparation program - requirements - rules - legislative declaration
22-60.5-305.5. Alternative principal preparation program - requirements - rules - legislative declaration. (1) (a) The general assembly finds that there is a shortage of persons in the state who are licensed as principals and are available for employment by school districts. The general assembly further finds that persons who have achieved success in careers outside of education and who are interested in employment as school principals may provide a new source of leadership talent for school districts as they seek to hire school principals. Therefore, the general assembly concludes that it is in the interest of the state to authorize school districts to design and implement individualized alternative principal programs to enable persons from outside the education community to develop the skills and experiences necessary to successfully lead a public school and to qualify ultimately for licensure as principals.
(b) The general assembly further finds that it is in the best interest of the state to allow designated agencies to create alternative principal programs that provide the preparation necessary to enable principals to meet the quality standards for principals and qualify for a professional principal license.
(2) (a) A school district or charter school may employ as a principal or a vice-principal a person who holds a principal authorization issued pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (14). A person who is employed by a school district under a principal authorization may perform the duties of a principal or a vice-principal in a school so long as the person is under the supervision of a professional principal licensee. A person who holds a principal authorization issued pursuant to section 22-60.5-111 (14) may participate in an individualized alternative principal program offered by a nonpublic school.
(b) If a person is pursuing an individualized alternative principal program, the school district, charter school, nonpublic school, or institute shall collaborate with the person in designing the individualized alternative principal program, which the person must complete while employed under the authorization. The school district, charter school, nonpublic school, or institute may work with a governmental, nonprofit, or for-profit entity in designing and implementing the individualized alternative principal program. The individualized alternative principal program is subject to approval by the state board of education as provided in section 22-60.5-111 (14) and in accordance with rules adopted by the state board of education.
(c) If a person is enrolled in an alternative principal program approved pursuant to subsection (6) of this section, the employing school district or charter school shall work with the designated agency that provides the alternative principal program to ensure that, while the person holds a principal authorization and is employed by the school district or charter school, the person completes the requirements of the alternative principal program.
(3) In designing an individualized alternative principal program, the school district, charter school, or nonpublic school shall, at a minimum, ensure that:
provides the alternative principal program to ensure that, while the person holds a principal authorization and is employed by the school district or charter school, the person completes the requirements of the alternative principal program.
(3) In designing an individualized alternative principal program, the school district, charter school, or nonpublic school shall, at a minimum, ensure that:
(a) The program will provide the information, experience, and training to enable the person who is employed under the principal authorization to develop the skills and obtain the experience and training that are comparable to those possessed by a person who qualifies for an initial principal license, as provided in section 22-60.5-301 (1)(a);
(a.5) The program provides information and training that includes an overview of Title II of the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; section 504 of the federal "Rehabilitation Act of 1973", 29 U.S.C. sec. 701 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; the "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; individualized education programs; and child find and that teaches effective special education classroom practices, including but not limited to inclusive learning environments.
(b) The person who is employed under the principal authorization is required to successfully demonstrate professional competencies in subject matter areas, as specified by rule of the state board pursuant to section 22-60.5-303;
(c) A person who is employed under the principal authorization is mentored and coached continuously by one or more principals and administrators;
(d) The person who is employed under the principal authorization is assessed at the beginning of the individualized alternative principal program to determine his or her strengths and weaknesses and that the program is designed to fit the person's individual education and training needs; and
(e) The individualized alternative principal program complements the school improvement plan, if one exists, of the school in which the person who holds a principal authorization would be employed.
(4) In designing an individualized alternative principal program, the school district, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school shall assess the needs of the school to which the person employed under the principal authorization would be assigned and ensure that the person receives training that will equip the person to meet the specific needs of the school and the community in which it is located.
(5) A school district may employ a person who holds a principal authorization for three years. After that time, the school district may employ the person as a principal only if the person receives an initial or professional principal license pursuant to section 22-60.5-301. The school district or charter school may choose to provide an induction program, as described in section 22-60.5-304, for the person while employed under a principal authorization. The induction program, if provided, must be in addition to the individualized alternative principal program or the approved alternative principal program that the person completes while employed under a principal authorization.
l district or charter school may choose to provide an induction program, as described in section 22-60.5-304, for the person while employed under a principal authorization. The induction program, if provided, must be in addition to the individualized alternative principal program or the approved alternative principal program that the person completes while employed under a principal authorization.
(6) (a) A designated agency is authorized to implement an alternative principal program, subject to approval by the state board pursuant to subsection (6)(b) of this section and rules adopted by the state board. At a minimum, an alternative principal program must:
(I) Provide the information, experience, and training to enable the person who participates in the alternative principal program to develop skills and obtain experience and training that are comparable to those possessed by a person who qualifies for an initial principal license, as provided in section 22-60.5-301 (1)(a);
(II) Provide information and training that includes an overview of Title II of the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; section 504 of the federal "Rehabilitation Act of 1973", 29 U.S.C. sec. 701 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations; individualized education programs; and child find. The alternative principal program must also teach effective special education classroom practices, including but not limited to inclusive learning environments.
(III) Require a person who participates in the alternative principal program to successfully demonstrate professional competencies in areas of knowledge, as specified by rule of the state board pursuant to section 22-60.5-303; and
(IV) Include supervision by mentor principals, performance evaluations, and a program of planned instruction and activities that are designed to enable the person enrolled in the alternative principal program to meet the quality standards for principals adopted by the state board pursuant to section 22-2-109 (6).
(b) A designated agency that seeks approval of an alternative principal program must, in accordance with state board rules, submit to the department evidence that the program meets the requirements specified in subsection (6)(a) of this section and any additional requirements specified by state board rule. The department shall review each request for approval of an alternative principal program. If the department finds that the alternative principal program meets the requirements specified in subsection (6)(a) of this section and the rules of the state board, the state board shall approve the alternative principal program. The state board, by rule, shall establish a schedule pursuant to which a designated agency that operates an alternative principal program must periodically seek reapproval.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-306 Types of administrator licenses issued - term
22-60.5-306. Types of administrator licenses issued - term. (1) The department of education is designated as the sole agency authorized to issue the following types of administrator licenses to persons of good moral character:
(a) Initial administrator license. (I) The department of education, in its discretion, may issue an initial administrator license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds an earned baccalaureate degree from an accepted institution of higher education;
(B) Has completed an approved program of preparation for administrators;
(C) Has demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-308.
(II) An initial administrator license shall be valid in any school districts or nonpublic schools that provide, or charter schools that provide or participate in, an approved induction program for administrators or have obtained a waiver of the approved induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). Any initial administrator license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(a) shall be valid for a period of three years after the date of issuance and is renewable only once for an additional period of three years; except that, if an initial administrator licensee is unable to complete an induction program for reasons other than incompetence, the state board of education may renew the licensee's initial administrator license for one or more additional three-year periods upon the initial licensee's showing of good cause for inability to complete an approved induction program.
(b) Professional administrator license. (I) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(I.5) of this section, the department of education may, in its discretion, issue a professional administrator license to any applicant who:
(A) Holds an earned master's degree from an institution of higher education;
(B) Holds a valid initial administrator license; and
(C) Has completed an approved induction program for administrators and has been recommended for licensure by the school districts, charter schools, the institute, or nonpublic school that provided such induction program; except that the applicant need not complete an approved induction program as an initial administrator licensee if the applicant previously completed an induction program while employed under an emergency authorization or a temporary educator eligibility authorization or if the school district or charter school in which the applicant is employed has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement pursuant to section 22-60.5-114 (2). If the applicant is employed by a nonpublic school, or by a school district, a charter school, or the institute that has obtained a waiver of the induction program requirement, the applicant shall demonstrate completion of any requirements specified in the school district's or nonpublic school's plan for support, assistance, and training of initially licensed educators.
(I.5) The department of education may issue a professional administrator license to an applicant who meets the requirements specified in section 22-60.5-111 (4)(c)(II) or (5)(e)(II).
(II) (A) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (1)(b)(II)(B) of this section, any professional administrator license issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(b)(II)(A) is valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable pursuant to section 22-60.5-110. If, as of September 7, 2021, an individual has partially completed the individual's five-year professional administrator licensing period, the licensing period for that individual is extended to a seven-year period. The years that the individual already completed toward the five-year professional administrator licensing period will count toward the individual's new seven-year professional administrator licensing period.
2021, an individual has partially completed the individual's five-year professional administrator licensing period, the licensing period for that individual is extended to a seven-year period. The years that the individual already completed toward the five-year professional administrator licensing period will count toward the individual's new seven-year professional administrator licensing period.
(B) Any professional administrator license issued pursuant to this paragraph (b) which is held in conjunction with a master certificate pursuant to section 22-60.5-307 shall be valid for a period of seven years after the date of issuance and is renewable as provided in section 22-60.5-110.
(2) The state board of education is authorized to establish, by rule and regulation, such other requirements for licenses specified in subsection (1) of this section as it deems necessary to maintain and improve the quality of administration and supervision of education instructional programs; except that the state board of education may not require any person applying for a professional administrator license to demonstrate professional competencies.
(3) (a) The department of education may, at its discretion, issue an initial administrator license provided for in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section to any applicant from another state or country whose qualifications meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of an initial administrator license.
(b) (I) The department of education may issue a professional administrator license to any applicant from another state if:
(A) The applicant holds a license or certificate from that state that is comparable to an administrator license in this state and the standards for the issuance of such license or certificate meet or exceed the standards of the state board of education for the issuance of a professional administrator license; and
(B) The applicant has had at least three years of continuous, successful, evaluated experience as an administrator in an established elementary or secondary school and can provide documentation of such experience on forms provided by the department.
(II) An applicant for a professional administrator license pursuant to this paragraph (b) need not have:
(A) Completed an approved induction program for administrators;
(B) Held an initial administrator license pursuant to paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section; or
(C) Demonstrated professional competencies in subject areas as specified by rule of the state board of education pursuant to section 22-60.5-308.
(4) The state board of education is authorized to enter into interstate reciprocal agreements in which the department of education agrees to issue initial administrator licenses to persons licensed as administrators in another state.
(5) Repealed.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-307 Professional administrator licensees - master certification
22-60.5-307. Professional administrator licensees - master certification. The department of education may, in its discretion, issue a master certificate to any applicant who holds a valid professional administrator license and who meets the criteria for master certification as specified by rule and regulation of the state board of education. Master certification shall recognize those professional administrator licensees who are involved in ongoing professional development and training and who have advanced competencies or expertise or who have demonstrated outstanding achievements. Any master certificate issued pursuant to this section shall be valid for the period of time for which the applicant's professional administrator license is valid and is renewable at its expiration.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-308 Assessment of professional competencies
22-60.5-308. Assessment of professional competencies. (1) The state board of education shall, by rule and regulation, establish areas of knowledge in which initial administrator licensees shall possess a satisfactory level of proficiency.
(2) The following list of areas of knowledge is a guideline to be used by the state board of education and shall not be construed as inclusive or prescriptive:
(a) Basic management;
(b) Leadership;
(c) Decision-making and problem-solving;
(d) Communication and human relations, including the ability to respond to the needs of students and parents from culturally diverse backgrounds;
(e) Personnel administration;
(f) Resource utilization;
(g) Child growth and development; and
(h) Knowledge and application of standards-based education pursuant to part 10 of article 7 of this title.
(3) The department of education shall develop and administer, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the state board of education, a system for the assessment of such professional competencies of applicants for initial administrator licenses.
(4) The state board of education shall annually review the assessment program developed pursuant to subsection (3) of this section to assure the appropriateness of the assessments and the standards established to determine a satisfactory level of proficiency.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-309 Approved induction programs - initial administrator licensees
22-60.5-309. Approved induction programs - initial administrator licensees. (1) Any approved induction program of a school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school for initial administrator licensees may include, but shall not be limited to, supervision by mentor administrators; ongoing professional development and training, including ethics; and performance evaluations. Such school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school may enter into agreements with accepted institutions of higher education in regard to the organization, management, and operation of an approved induction program, or any portion thereof. The school district's or districts' performance evaluations must be conducted in accordance with section 22-9-106; however, the state board of education may provide by rule for performance evaluations by mentor administrators.
(2) The approved induction program of any individual initial administrator licensee may be extended if deemed necessary by the school district or districts, charter school, the institute, or nonpublic school providing such program; however, such program shall not exceed a maximum of three years.
(3) The state board of education shall, by rule and regulation, establish standards and criteria for the approval of proposed induction programs for initial administrator licensees and for the review of approved induction programs for initial administrator licensees. Such rules and regulations shall provide for such standards and criteria to be fully implemented on and after July 1, 1999, and shall provide for the gradual implementation of such standards and criteria over the five-year period prior to said date. Such standards and criteria shall, at a minimum, provide multiple approaches and options in regard to the provision of approved induction programs which take into consideration factors which the state board of education deems appropriate. Such factors shall include, but shall not be limited to, the setting categories and geographical location of school districts, the costs of providing approved induction programs, and the availability of state moneys to fund, in whole or in part, approved induction programs.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-309.5 Licensed administrators - occasional teaching
22-60.5-309.5. Licensed administrators - occasional teaching. Any administrator who holds a valid initial or professional administrator's license pursuant to this part 3, who has completed three or more years of successful experience working with students as a licensed or certificated professional in a public or nonpublic elementary or secondary school in this state or another state, and who, on occasion, functions as a teacher shall not be required to hold a valid initial or professional teacher license pursuant to part 2 of this article. The state board of education shall establish by rule what constitutes occasional teaching for purposes of this section.
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-310 Principal and administrator professional standards board - creation - membership - repeal
22-60.5-310. Principal and administrator professional standards board - creation - membership - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-311 Powers and duties of the principal and administrator professional standards board - repeal
22-60.5-311. Powers and duties of the principal and administrator professional standards board - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-312 Principal and administrator professional standards board - annual joint meeting - repeal
22-60.5-312. Principal and administrator professional standards board - annual joint meeting - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-313 Principal and administrator professional standards board - examination for basic competencies
22-60.5-313. Principal and administrator professional standards board - examination for basic competencies. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-401 Educator professional standards board - creation - membership
22-60.5-401. Educator professional standards board - creation - membership. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-402 Powers and duties of the educator professional standards board
22-60.5-402. Powers and duties of the educator professional standards board. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-403 Use of term "certificated" - repeal
22-60.5-403. Use of term "certificated" - repeal. (Repealed)
C.R.S. § 22-60.5-404 Change of term - direction to revisor
22-60.5-404. Change of term - direction to revisor. (Repealed)
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-22.docxFetched: 10/6/2026