PEBC offers two Special Education pathways. For folks who do not have teaching experience or a teaching license, the 2 Year SpEd pathway allows them to spend year 1 as a Traditional Resident to receive a GenEd license. In year 2, these candidates fill an open SpEd teaching position as a Teacher of Record and conclude their two year program dually licensed in a General Education content area with a Special Education endorsement.
For educators who already have a teaching license, the 1 Year SpEd pathway is designed for these individuals to accept a Teacher of Record position in a Special Education classroom and complete seminar and coursework toward SpEd licensure. At the end of the program these candidates add a Special Education endorsement onto their existing teacher license.
Please note: In order to fill an open Special Education teaching position through an alternative teacher preparation program, candidates must have an existing teaching license.
Program Highlights
- No prior teaching experience necessary
- Work alongside a mentor teacher in the classroom Year 1,
fully salaried Teacher of Record Year 2 - Eligible for scholarship which includes cash payout
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree
- Available statewide
- Consistent feedback through field coaching
- Two years to program completion
- Option to pursue master’s degree
- Earn teacher license and SPED endorsement
- Access to 5 years of professional development from PEBC
Want to learn more? Register for a free info session »
Or you can give us a call at 303-861-8661 or email [email protected]
PEBC has helped me to reach my goal of becoming a special education teacher by providing me with relevant content and instruction that fits perfectly into what I am currently doing at my school. The flexible schedule, realistic workload, collaborative learning process, and experienced faculty make working and doing PEBC programming possible. I am learning so much and applying it in real time to my students!
Gina Incorvia, SpEd TOR 1 Year Pathway, 24-25
Special Education Program timeline
Meet eligibility requirements
Have an undergraduate degree or international equivalent
Be able to live and work in Colorado
Have some experience leading or teaching groups of students (paraprofessional, substitute teacher, highly experienced camp counselor, etc.)
Submit a free application
Apply online here »
If you need help with your application, please email our admissions office at [email protected]
Meet with the PEBC Admissions team
Initial Meeting
A team member will clarify finances and next steps in a personalized one-on-one meeting.
Individual video interview
You'll prepare and answer questions about your experiences and desire to teach.
Final group interview
You'll connect with other candidates along with PEBC staff.
Accept offer and enroll in program
You'll sign a 3-year commitment to your school / district and pay the $500 program deposit (payment plans available)
Complete Praxis Exam or CDE endorsement worksheet
Elementary and ECE teachers need to pass a Praxis exam to show content proficiency.
Secondary teachers may be able to complete the CDE endorsement worksheet if your degree is in the subject you'll be teaching.
Collaborate to finalize school placement and mentor.
PEBC cannot guarantee placement in a certain school, but does use feedback from accepted residents to find a placement in their geographic region and content area dependent on available mentors.
Apply for Alternative License and ERR grant through CDE
You must apply for the ERR grant during the application window and after applying for your alternative or interim license.
Attend Summer Institute
Summer Institute takes place during July before the program.
First school year
In your first school year, you'll be trained as a general education teacher, while receiving support from PEBC and your mentor in the classroom.
Prepare for your second year
After your first year, you'll apply for your initial license and secure a position as a SPED Generalist. You'll also complete your Praxis exams if needed.
Candidates who already have an initial or professional license will began the program here.
Second school year
During this year, you'll teach Special Education students, while receiving support from a mentor in the building, and PEBC.
Special Education Praxis
You'll complete the Special Education Praxis exam to complete the program.