The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) is now accepting applications for the 2025-26 Educator Recruitment and Retention Program, which offers up to $10,000 in financial aid to future teachers and paraprofessionals.
This funding helps cover the cost of educator preparation programs and is aimed at individuals pursuing careers in high-need subject areas across the state. In exchange, recipients commit to working in one of these shortage areas for at least three years. A full list of eligible areas is available on the CDE website.
Key Dates and Details:
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Application window: July 1 – September 30
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Eligibility: Must be enrolled in or applying to an approved educator preparation program
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Requirement: Three-year commitment in a shortage area
“This program helps ease the financial burden for aspiring educators and opens the door for more people to bring their talent into Colorado classrooms,” said Education Commissioner Susana Córdova.
Launched in 2021 through Senate Bill 21-185, the initiative addresses Colorado’s ongoing teacher shortage. Since its inception, more than 2,000 aspiring educators have received support.
CDE reports that:
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88% of recipients remain in Colorado public schools after one year
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Nearly 50% say they wouldn’t have pursued teaching without this help
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94% believe the assistance had a positive impact on their careers
With high demand expected, the CDE encourages applicants to apply early and coordinate closely with their preparation programs.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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