SB23-087 Summary

• Creates a new teacher degree apprenticeship program as an alternative pathway to teacher licensure that allows individuals without a bachelor's degree to earn while learning through a paid, registered apprenticeship model.

• Establishes a "teacher apprentice" role that allows registered apprentices to work with increasing responsibilities (substitute teacher, student teacher, teacher of record) while enrolled in an affiliated bachelor's degree program from an accredited institution.

• Requires apprenticeship programs to be registered with the U.S. Department of Labor or state apprenticeship agency, include mentor teacher training, align competencies to Colorado teacher quality standards, and incorporate on-the-job training meaningfully into the degree program.

• Authorizes the State Board of Education to approve qualified entities as teacher apprenticeship program sponsors and establishes a 90-day review timeline for program applications; includes 5-year program audits to ensure continued compliance.

• Appropriates $116,134 to the Colorado Department of Education for 2023-24 ($89,699 for program implementation and $26,435 for legal services) to support program development and administration.