Alternative Principal Preparation Program
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I qualify for an Alternative Principal Preparation Program?
- What is the salary for Alternative Principals?
- What is the typical fee for these programs?
- What is a Designated Agency?
- What if a school district wants to hire me, but does not have the funding for a full-time person? Can I participate in a program if I am only teaching part-time?
- When should I apply to the school districts?
- When I submit my application, may I include supplemental materials to verify competencies?
- Do these programs include placement?
- Is a Statement of Eligibility a license?
- Do I need to send or include transcripts from each college or university attended?
(Click Here for General Information)
1. How do I qualify for an Alternative Principal Preparation Program?
To participate in the program, you must meet one of the following categories:
Category 1.
Applicant has:
Completed a teacher or special services provider preparation program;
Is eligible for or holds a valid Initial or Professional Colorado Teacher or Special Services Provider license; and
Has provided evidence of three or more years of full-time successful educator experience.
Category 2.
Applicant has:
Provided documented evidence of three or more years of full-time successful experience as an unlicensed teacher or special service provider in a non-public or public K-12 school in Colorado or another state.
Category 3.
Applicant has:
Provided documented evidence of three or more years of full-time successful management experience, e.g., in business, industry, government, the military, or non-public education.
Successfully completed an Alternative Teacher Licensing Program prior to participation in the Alternative Principal Preparation Program.
2. What is the salary for Alternative Principals?
If you are employed as an Alternative Principal or Vice Principal, you will be paid by the employing district. Some of the programs allow the expenses of being trained and mentored to be deducted monthly. Salaries vary among school districts. Contact the schools or districts that you are interested in for this information.
3. What is the typical fee for these Programs?
The fee charged to the Alternative Candidate will vary depending on the Designated Agency. CDE does not set or keep program fee information. Information about program costs may be obtained from the Designated Agency.
4. What is a Designated Agency?
Designated Agencies include school districts, charter or private schools, Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), institutions of higher education, non-profit organizations, or a combination of these groups. For list of Designated Agencies that operate a state-approved program follow the links below.
5. What if a school district wants to hire me, but does not have the funding for a full-time person? Can I participate in a program if I am only teaching part-time?
No. These programs require full-time employment.
6. When should I apply to the school districts?
This will depend on the district. The Statement of Eligibility (SOE) is required for employment and may be required for application to various districts. The SOE is valid for three years and can be renewed once. Applicants must meet current standards at the time of renewal.
7. When I submit my application, may I include supplemental materials to verify competencies?
Yes. You may submit a copy of your resume, course descriptions, life experiences or provide information that directly pertains to your content area. These materials will not be returned. Please do not include the entire course catalog to document your course descriptions, letters of recommendation or teacher evaluations with your packet.
8. Do these programs include placement?
No. Alternative candidates are required to seek their own employment, similar to those who have completed regular preparation for licensure. CDE has a job website at www.teachincolorado.org. You may also want to check with individual districts for their job openings.
9. Is a Statement of Eligibility a license?
No. The Statement of Eligibility (SOE) is used to indicate to a Designated Agency that you meet the State’s requirements to enter the program. It is not a license.
10. Do I need to send or include transcripts from each college or university attended?
Yes. Transfer credits are often listed in bulk, without details for the courses included. The evaluators match your educational background to State requirements for the endorsement area. If you do not include all transcripts, your evaluation could be delayed.
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