Strategies for GYO

Host Becoming a Licensed Teacher sessions

Hire community members with bachelor's degrees who want to earn alternative licenses

Hire individuals who do not have a bachelor’s degree or an educator preparation program but have a strong background to support the learning and content.

Help existing teachers gain dual certification to teach additional content areas (Rural Inservice Educator Stipend)

Encourage student teachers to choose your district (Colorado Rural Student Teacher Stipend)

Hire substitute teachers to fill short term needs.

Reach out to TEACH Colorado to help inspire and support future teachers, promote Licensing 101 sessions, or use their community surveys to recruit future teachers.

Hire paraprofessionals who would like to become teachers.

Encourage talented individuals interested in Special Services Provider employment in rural or small rural schools in Colorado.

Grow your own teachers by developing a teacher degree apprenticeship program, starting a Teacher Cadet program, or creating a para-to-teacher pathway.

Speak to current high school students about the benefits of becoming a teacher and the programs available to help pay for their educator preparation program costs.