English Learner Requirements - Information for PD Programs and Providers

The page below contains information on how a PD provider can apply to become a pre-approved pathway for ELPD. If you are an educator interested in learning more about ELPD, please navigate to this page: ELPD Requirements

English learner professional development requirement

To help better support students in Colorado who are English language learners, the State Board of Education adopted new rules in June 2018 requiring educators with elementary, math, science, social studies and English language arts endorsements to complete a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) Education training -- commonly knows as "English learner professional development (PD)." These teachers must complete the new licensing requirement:

When renewing their license that expires on or after Sept. 1, 2025
Only once over the course of their professional during the term of their license

In order to meet the new English learner PD requirement, teachers must demonstrate completion of training or professional development activities equivalent to 45 clock/contact hours or three semester hours in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) Education. Teachers with previous CLD training, experience or professional development can count it towards meeting the new English Learner PD requirement.

The earliest licensed teachers will be required to add this new designation to their license is September 2025. Educators have the option to utilize a pre-approved ELPD pathway or to combine courses that align to the standards to create their own pathway.

Become a CDE-Approved English Learner Professional Development Program

Districts, BOCES, charter schools and PD providers can support teachers in meeting the new English Learner PD requirement by seeking approval from CDE to offer a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education training program. The steps below outline the process to gain approval as an English Learner Professional Development Program. A quick informational webinar regarding English Learner Professional Development Pathways recorded on July 31, 2018, is also available.

Not all PD offerings need to be pre-approved by CDE. CDE is only pre-approving programs that offer the requisite 45 contact hours and address all standards and associated elements. For more detailed information on how educators can obtain credit for PD that has not been pre-approved by CDE, click here to read about individual PD verification.

1. Complete the English Learner PD Standards Matrix

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Download the English Learner PD Standards Matrix (XLS)

2. Submit the CDE Approved English Learner PD Program Application

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Access the application.

3. Receive decision

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If you have questions while awaiting a decision, contact CDE.

4. Renew program approval with CDE every 3 years

Renewal application link will be sent directly to programs.

Waivers

Districts, BOCES and charter school authorized by the Charter School Institute (CSI) with an average English learner population of two percent or fewer over a three year period will have a waiver option available for educators. The waiver can be requested by the district superintendent or principal of a CSI authorized charter school. More detailed information will be made available regarding this waiver process at a later date.