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Multiple Measures of Content Competency

Established by Colorado House Bill 22-1220, Multiple Measures of Content Competency increase the ways by which candidates who apply on or after Aug. 1, 2023 may demonstrate depth of content knowledge to qualify for their first Colorado teacher license.

Multiple measures allow candidates completing Colorado traditional teacher preparation programs, first-time teacher applicants who completed teacher preparation outside Colorado and candidates entering or completing Colorado alternative teacher preparation programs to demonstrate content knowledge either (1) as allowed or required previously or (2) via any of the NEW! ways outlined below. Please remember candidates need to have an official, degree-conferred transcript from a regionally accredited college or university that demonstrates a bachelor's or higher degree is required for initial licensure.

To Whom Does It Apply?

Demonstration via multiple measures of content competency may be pursued only by:

  • first-time teacher licensure candidates from traditional Colorado teacher preparation programs
  • first-time Colorado teacher license applicants who completed a teacher preparation program outside Colorado
  • individuals participating in a Colorado alternative teacher preparation program for their first teacher license

Multiple measures do not apply to:

  • anyone who holds a Colorado initial or professional teacher license
  • anyone seeking to add an endorsement to a Colorado initial or professional teacher license
  • individuals seeking a special services, principal or administrator license

These individuals must meet endorsement requirements as outlined here

What Are the Multiple Measures?

Multiple measures options are specific to endorsement areas:

Early Childhood, Early Childhood Special Education, Elementary or Special Education Generalist

Applicants for their first Colorado teacher license with an Early Childhood, Early Childhood Special Education, Elementary or Special Education Generalist endorsement must demonstrate content knowledge via any of the following:

  • Passing the approved PRAXIS exam(s) -- as required previously
  • Having a B- or higher in coursework aligned to endorsement standards, as outlined on these worksheets -- NEW!
  • A portfolio review of evidence, as outlined on these worksheets -- NEW!
  • A combination of any of the above -- NEW!

K-12, Middle School Math or 6-12 endorsements

Applicants for their first Colorado teacher license with a K-12, Middle School Math or 6-12 endorsement must demonstrate content knowledge via any of the following:

  • Passing the approved PRAIXS exams -- as allowed previously
  • Having a B- or higher in 24 semester hours of coursework aligned to endorsement standards, as outlined on these endorsement worksheets -- as allowed previously, now with a grade requirement
  • A bachelor's or higher degree in the endorsement area, as identified on these endorsement worksheets -- as allowed previously
  • A portfolio review of evidence, as outlined on these worksheets -- NEW!
  • A combination of any of the above -- NEW!

How Does It Work?

  • Any applicant applying for any endorsement via one of the allowed or required previously measures simply will follow the corresponding application checklist, log in COOL and submit an application for licensure.
  • Any applicant wanting to demonstrate content knowledge via one of the NEW measures must select the appropriate button below and follow the steps outlined PRIOR to submitting an application for licensure:

Candidates may find these Frequently Asked Questions (and answers!) helpful.
Questions about Multiple Measures of Content Competency may be sent via email to CDE's Educator Preparation Office.