Overview
St. Vrain Valley School District’s Alternative Licensure Pathway to Special Education Program (ALPSE) is a two-year program designed for individuals who are seeking their initial licensure as a Special Education Generalist (5-21).
During year one, alternative licensure educators will participate in 175 hours of dedicated professional learning that is provided through a cohort model. Educators participate in a class taught by two program consultants where participants develop an in-depth understanding of IDEA regulations, special education processes and best instructional practices. Special education alternative licensure educators also receive intensive and individualized coaching support that is highly responsive to their needs as novice teachers.
During year two, special education alternative licensure educators receive 93 hours of dedicated professional development and continued support from a coach on an as-needed basis. The educators participate in an evening class taught by program consultants. The content of this course is focused more on the development of a teacher in year two of their career, focusing on topics such as continued instruction on IDEA regulations, special education processes and other topics, such as classroom management, a deeper dive into curriculum and pedagogy of literacy, math and social/emotional learning.
Requirements
Potential candidates require the completion of a four-year Bachelor’s Degree at an accredited university or college. A special education teaching position in St. Vrain Valley Schools must be secured in order to participate in this program.
The St. Vrain Advantage
- Dedicated instructional coaching to support learning
- Practical application of classroom learning
- Support with instructional strategies and procedural guidance
- Cohort model encourages shared learning amongst educators
- Access to St. Vrain’s instructional resources, curricula, programs and technology
FAQ
Q: Can I participate in the alternative licensure program if I do not have a special education teaching position in St. Vrain Valley Schools?
A: No. Alternative licensure programs require the candidate to be working in a special education position as a teacher of record. Paraprofessionals or other classified jobs within the district do not comply with program and state requirements.
Q: How long is the program?
A: Two years.
Q: What are the commitments?
During the first year, the cohort meets in-person 3-4 times monthly. The cohort also meets the June before the start of year one to review course expectations, support with licensing requirements, and develop the foundation for the beginning of the school year. Attending New Teacher Orientation is also required. During year two, the cohort meets in-person once monthly. Requirements of the in-person meetings for both year one and year two include participation, book studies, and independent work.
Participants will receive dedicated instructional coaching throughout the two-year program in order to support learning.
Q: What are Praxis exams and when do I take them?
A: The Praxis exam is a content area exam accepted for meeting content competency requirements for certain Colorado endorsements. The Praxis exam is a requirement for licensure in the state of Colorado. It is recommended that you take the 5901 Praxis series before you apply for your alternative license.
Q: Can this program be used to add an endorsement in special education?
A: At this time, the alternative licensure program is not the pathway to add an endorsement. Please refer to CDE’s guidance to add an endorsement to your license.
Q: How do I get started?
A: If interested, reach out to an Instructional Program Consultant listed below. Our team is happy to speak with interested candidates and provide additional information. Program consultants will support interested candidates through each step of the process.
Contact information
Nathalie Tuhari-Katz, Assistant Director of Special Education – [email protected]
Erin Quakenbush, Instructional Program Consultant – [email protected]
Jasmine McGarr, Instructional Program Consultant – [email protected]