How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in Colorado

Elementary school teachers play a vital role in shaping young minds during some of their most formative years. If you’re considering this rewarding career path in Colorado, you’ll find a state that values education, welcomes career changers, and offers multiple pathways to licensure.

This post will walk you through the steps you could take to become an elementary school teacher in Colorado. 

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become an Elementary Teacher in Colorado 

Elementary school teachers follow a few specific requirements for licensure. For example, elementary teachers typically focus on grades K-6 and need to demonstrate competency across multiple subject areas rather than one specific subject. But in general, elementary school teachers in Colorado will follow the same basic steps to licensure as teachers in other grades or subjects.

For a broad overview of teacher licensure in Colorado — including alternative routes, testing requirements, and license types — check out our How to Become a Licensed Teacher in Colorado guide. This resource provides detailed information about Colorado’s licensing system, the benefits of teaching in the Centennial State, and the various routes available to aspiring educators.

What Do You Need to Be an Elementary School Teacher in Colorado? 

Elementary school teachers in Colorado need to have at least a bachelor’s degree and complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP). They’ll also need to pass a series of licensure exams — or demonstrate competency another way — and clear fingerprint and background checks.

The timeline depends on your starting point. If you’re a high school graduate and you know you want to be a teacher, the most common route is a 4-year bachelor’s degree in education. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, however, you could complete a graduate-level EPP and become a fully licensed teacher much faster. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, for example, can be completed in as little as 9 months, 100% online.

It is important to note that TEACH-NOW is an out-of-state EPP in Colorado, so you would apply for your Colorado license through the out-of-state process. 

Steps to Becoming an Elementary School Teacher in Colorado 

In-State vs. Out-of-State Pathway 

Colorado offers flexibility when it comes to earning your teaching license. The state has a list of approved, in-state EPPs. If you prefer an online or out-of-state program, like Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program, you’ll simply follow Colorado’s process for out-of-state applicants.

Both pathways lead to the same credential, so your choice often comes down to personal preference, schedule, and program structure. In-state programs may offer more face-to-face interaction and local networking opportunities, while out-of-state programs (particularly online options) can provide greater flexibility for those balancing work or family commitments.

Steps to Licensure in Colorado 

Let’s say you choose Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program, an out-of-state EPP in Colorado. Here’s an example of the steps you could take to earn your elementary teaching license:  

1. Earn your bachelor’s degree. This degree does not need to be in education.
2. Complete your EPP. The TEACH-NOW program is 100% online and can be completed in as little as 9 months.  
3. Demonstrate content knowledge. Colorado teachers take Praxis exams, but the state also allows teachers to demonstrate content knowledge in other ways such as holding a bachelor’s degree in an endorsement area or going through a portfolio review. For an endorsement in elementary education (grades K-6), you would likely take the Praxis test for teaching elementary reading along with the test for elementary math.    
4. Get a completed verification form. You’ll get this from the registrar or certification officer of your EPP. 
5. Complete your background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. 
6. Submit your licensure application through the Colorado Department of Education’s online system. 

It’s important to note this is just one example of a potential path. For more detailed information, visit the Colorado Department of Education’s page on Educator Licensing. 

Can You Become an Elementary School Teacher in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree? 

Yes, and in fact, Colorado actively welcomes career changers. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can pursue your elementary teaching license through an alternative EPP. 

Holding a degree in something other than education and/or bringing career experience from another field can enhance your skills as a teacher. You’re preparing students for life outside the classroom — your own experiences from outside the classroom are more than relevant.

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Ready to take the next step? Earn your professional teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is fully accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.

Once you complete the TEACH-NOW program, you have the option to add on a master’s degree in just 3 additional months. Apply for free (the application only takes about 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.