Colorado is one of the states seeing a steady rise in preschool enrollment. With the state’s universal preschool expansion and stronger early childhood funding, the demand for qualified preschool teachers has never been higher.
Preschool teaching isn’t just another job. It’s one of the most rewarding careers for those who love working with children and helping them grow. Early childhood education plays a critical role in shaping a child’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. A well-trained teacher can spark curiosity, build self-confidence, and create positive learning habits that last a lifetime.
This guide explains every step needed how to become a preschool teacher in Colorado. This includes preschool teacher requirements in Colorado, certification, licensing, and career growth.
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Why Choose Preschool Teaching in Colorado?
Colorado isn’t just hiring preschool teachers. It’s investing in them. The launch of Universal Preschool Colorado in 2023 opened the door for thousands of families to access free early education. And by 2026, the demand for Colorado preschool teachers is expected to continue expanding. This means more classrooms, more programs, and more teaching positions statewide.
Here’s why preschool teaching is such a promising career path in Colorado:
- High Demand and Job Stability: The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) projects that preschool teacher positions will keep growing steadily through the decade. This is particularly true in areas with new UPK-funded programs.
- Competitive Salaries: According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), early childhood jobs in Colorado pay between $42,000 and $50,000 annually. Teachers in urban regions like Denver and Boulder often make more than those in rural counties.
- Diverse Job Settings: Opportunities range from public school preschools and Head Start programs to private childcare centers and faith-based schools. Teachers can also specialize in areas like bilingual education or special needs instruction.
Education Requirements
To become a preschool teacher in Colorado, obtaining a degree is the first big step. Preschool teacher education requirements vary by job type. However, most employers and state licensing rules emphasize early childhood education (ECE) training and degrees.
Here are different paths how to become a preschool teacher in Colorado:
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE)
- The minimum requirement for many childcare centers is an early childhood education degree in Colorado at the associate’s level.
- Typically earned through community colleges like Front Range, Red Rocks, or Pikes Peak.
- Takes about two years and includes courses in the following:
- child growth
- classroom management
- curriculum design
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education
- Required for public preschool teaching positions and roles with the Colorado Department of Education (CDE).
- Includes advanced coursework in:
- literacy instructionfamily engagement
- developmental psychology
- Opens doors to better pay and more leadership opportunities.
Alternative Pathways and 4+1 Programs
- Colorado universities such as CU Denver and the University of Northern Colorado offer 4+1 programs where students earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years.
- Professionals from other fields can transition through post-baccalaureate ECE certification programs.
Colorado Teacher Licensing and Certification
Once the degree is complete, the next step is obtaining the proper Colorado teacher license for early childhood. In Colorado, licensing is handled through the:
- Colorado Department of Education (CDE)
- Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC)
Licensing Through CDE
If teaching in a public preschool setting, educators need to earn a Colorado teaching license with an Early Childhood endorsement.
Here’s how that works:
- Initial Teacher License
- Granted to new teachers who have completed an approved teacher preparation program.
- Valid for three years.
- Professional Teacher License
- Earned after completing three years of teaching experience and ongoing professional development.
- Valid for seven years.
- Endorsement in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 3)
- Requires passing the Praxis Early Childhood Education (5025) exam.
- Covers child development, literacy, math, and instructional strategies.
Teachers must renew their license periodically by completing professional development hours or additional coursework.
Colorado Early Childhood Professional Credential (ECPC)
For educators working in childcare centers or community-based preschools, the ECPC serves as the primary qualification system. It’s managed through the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC).
- This Colorado preschool teacher certification has levels 1 through 12, based on education, experience, and training.
- Applicants can apply through the Professional Development Information System (PDIS).
- As of 2024, the CDEC confirmed that ECPC applications are now processed within two weeks, which is much faster than before.
- Teachers use the ECPC to qualify for roles such as:
- Assistant Early Childhood TeacherEarly Childhood Teacher
- Center Director
Additional Requirements for Preschool Teachers
Beyond the degree and license, there are a few extra steps needed to work legally in Colorado’s preschools:
Preschool Teacher Background Check Colorado
All preschool teachers must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting before working with children. It protects student safety and is required by both state and federal law.
CPR and First Aid
Most childcare centers and preschools require teachers to maintain current CPR and First Aid certifications for infants and children. These must be renewed regularly.
Student Teaching or Practicum
Every early childhood education program includes hands-on experience in a real preschool or childcare setting. These early childhood teaching requirements help future teachers build confidence and apply what they’ve learned in class.
Preschool Teacher Career Pathways in Colorado
Becoming a preschool teacher doesn’t have to be the endpoint. Colorado offers several career pathways and specialization options once an educator gains experience.
Preschool Teacher Jobs Colorado
- Public Preschool Programs: Typically require full teacher licensure and pay slightly higher wages with benefits.
- Private or Nonprofit Centers: May have more flexible hiring requirements and smaller class sizes.
- Head Start Programs: Focus on supporting children from low-income families and require specific federal qualifications.
Specialized Areas
- Special Education: Teachers can pursue an endorsement in early childhood special education to support children with disabilities.
- Bilingual Education: For those fluent in English and Spanish, bilingual preschool teaching is an in-demand specialty.
- Montessori and Reggio Emilia Program: These models require additional specialized training and certification.
Advancement Opportunities
Over time, preschool teachers can move into the following early childhood career paths in Colorado:
- Lead Teacher
- Education Coordinator
- Center Director or Program Administrator
- Early Childhood Specialist or Consultant
- Instructor in teacher training programs
Salary and Job Outlook
Colorado continues to rank among the top states for early childhood education pay and job growth.
- Average Preschool Teacher Salary Colorado (2026 projection): Preschool teachers in Colorado earn between $42,000 and $50,000 per year. Teachers in the Denver metro area often reach $55,000+ with experience and higher education.
- Job Growth: The Colorado preschool teacher job outlook is projected to grow 10–15% by 2030, faster than the national average. The Universal Preschool Program is a major driver, with thousands of new positions expected each year.
- Rural vs. Urban Opportunities: Rural districts may offer sign-on bonuses or relocation incentives, while urban areas provide higher salaries and more advancement potential.
Resources and Support Networks
Starting in early childhood education is easier when future teachers know which Colorado early childhood teacher resources to tap into.
Colorado Association for the Education of Young Children (COAEYC)
The COAEYC is the state affiliate of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). It provides professional development, networking opportunities, and conferences for Colorado’s preschool teachers.
Colorado Department of Education (CDE)
The CDE website is the central hub for all licensing and credential information, from exam requirements to application forms and renewal instructions.
Financial Assistance and Scholarships
Many teachers qualify for preschool teacher scholarships in Colorado or loan forgiveness programs, such as the following:
- Colorado’s Early Childhood Teacher Scholarships are available through community colleges and universities.
- Federal TEACH Grant or Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) programs are for those working in public or nonprofit preschools.
- The employer-sponsored tuition assistance is a program for teachers who are still completing their degrees.
Professional Growth Networks
Joining teacher groups, attending workshops, and using Colorado Shines or PDIS helps teachers track credentials, meet peers, and build new skills.
Steps to Becoming a Preschool Teacher in Colorado
Here’s a quick recap of the steps to become a preschool teacher in Colorado:
- Earn your degree. Complete an associate or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education with courses in child development, literacy, and classroom management.
- Get classroom experience. Finish a practicum or student teaching placement.
- Pass the exams. Take the Praxis Early Childhood (5025) for public schools or apply for the ECPC credential for childcare settings.
- Apply for a license. Submit your application through the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) or CDEC.
- Complete your requirements. Undergo fingerprinting, background checks, and get CPR/First Aid certified.
- Keep growing. Renew credentials as needed and join professional development programs to advance your career.
Conclusion
Becoming a preschool teacher in Colorado in 2026 offers a fulfilling career with purpose, stability, and growth. With the Universal Preschool initiative expanding, qualified educators are more valuable than ever. Plus, the early childhood system provides multiple entry points and plenty of support to become a preschool teacher in Colorado in 2026.
By finishing the proper education, getting certified, and gaining real classroom experience, future teachers can help give every child a strong start in life.
That’s it on how to become a preschool teacher in Colorado.
