The NW BOCES Teacher Alternative Teacher Licensure Program is a state-approved, non-traditional licensure program. This program is designed for the individual who holds a bachelor degree in any field and who would like to become a licensed teacher in Colorado, but has not completed a traditional teacher licensure program through a college or university.  The program is a one-year on-the-job teacher preparation training experience.

The NW BOCES program provides an alternative pathway for general education as well as special education teachers. Current general education teachers can also add their special education endorsement through an abbreviated alternative pathway.

Once you've accepted a teaching position at a NW BOCES school, here are your next steps: 

1. Email the NW BOCES Professional Learning Director at darcy.harris@nwboces.org or click on this Calendly link to schedule an appointment.
2. Determine if you will need to apply for an Interim Authorization or an Alternative license through the Colorado Department of Education. Please review this CDE page for support in making that decision: Teacher License (and Interim Authorization) Requirements.  It is highly recommended that if you are hired before July 1 that you demonstrate content competency in order to apply for an alternative license.

If at any point, you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the NW BOCES Professional Learning Coordinator & Coach, who will be your Field Supervisor for this program: 

Darcy Harris
Professional Learning Director
darcy.harris@nwboces.org
970-896-6708