Educators are one of the nation’s most valuable resources. The following information is to help all aspiring educators to get on the path to becoming licensed and toward a rewarding, challenging and interesting career in teaching. Colorado Learning finds licensed teachers jobs, when you are ready, we are here to help!
Test Types:
In Colorado there are two types of tests used for licensing teachers: the PLACE and Praxis. Prospective teachers do not have to take both. If you can pass one or the other then you will be qualified to teach.
PLACE test:
The PLACE test is administered in Colorado only. PLACE stands for Program for Licensing Assessments for Colorado Educators.
Who is required to take the PLACE test? Candidates for initial educator licensure in Colorado who have completed an approved educator preparation program in Colorado are required to take and pass the applicable content-area tests. This includes candidates for teaching, special services, principal, and administrative licensure. Also, candidates who are entering a one- or two-year Alternative Licensure Preparation Program may take and pass the applicable PLACE test.
PLACE program overview: http://www.place.nesinc.com/CO19_overview.asp
PLACE registration checklist: http://www.place.nesinc.com/CO19_regchecklist.asp
Praxis tests:
The other series of tests are known as the Praxis. The Praxis test is administered nationawide by ETS (Educational Testing Service). If you are trying to enter the teaching profession you will want to sign up for the Praxis II test. If you are out of state and want to teach here in Colorado, this could be the better test for you to take because (unlike the PLACE test) this test is offered in all 50 states. ETS also offers the Praxis II and the Praxis Core tests. The Praxis I is designed for college students and used to qualify candidates for entry into a teacher education program. The Praxis Core is for candidates entering teacher preparation programs.
About the Praxis tests: https://www.ets.org/praxis/about/
Study:
Historically, there has been no limit to the number of times you can take these tests. If you don’t pass the first time, try to register again, study harder and pass the second time. Resources are available on the internet for studying for these tests. ETS also offers comprehensive study modules and material. ETS also offers live webinars that deliver in-depth information concerning the tests they offer.
Praxis study plan: https://www.ets.org/praxis/prepare/study/
Praxis preparation materials: https://www.ets.org/praxis/prepare/materials
PLACE test study guide: http://www.place.nesinc.com/CO_viewSG_opener.asp
Which test should I take?
There is no particular advantage to taking one test over the other, both are accepted by CDE (Colorado Dept. of Education). In relation to licensure in Colorado, both types of tests are accepted as a key component of attaining Highly Qualified Status in relation to the No Child Left Behind Federal Legislation. If you pass one of these tests then you are considered to be Highly Qualified in that content area provided you have a 4 year degree (the 4 year degree could be in subject and it does not have to be in that subject matter). Example: You graduate from a 4 year school with your Bachelors degree in Political Science, then you decide to take the PLACE test in math and pass. You are now considered to be Highly Qualified to teach math according to the federal NCLB (No Child Left Behind) laws.
Register for the Praxis: https://www.ets.org/praxis/register/
Register for the PLACE test: http://www.place.nesinc.com/
Does being Highly Qualified mean you will get hired?
Becoming Highly Qualified does not mean you will necessarily get hired by a school and does not imply you are are ready to apply for your teacher’s license. If you can achieve Highly Qualified status in a high need endorsement area (like math) this is a very significant achievement, but it is only a milestone in the process of establishing yourself as a successful licensed and experienced educator. When you become a licensed teacher Colorado Learning can assist you in jump starting your career by finding a great position you will be satisfied with.
Research the rewarding career of Teaching:
Becoming a Teacher is a wonderful career choice with many rewards.
http://www2.ed.gov/teachers/become/programs/edpicks.jhtml
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