Exploring the Alternative Teacher Licensure Program at Eagle Rock School

At Eagle Rock School, we are dedicated to reimagining education and cultivating the next generation of transformative educators. One of the key initiatives driving this mission forward is our Alternative Licensure Program (ALP), which stands out as a beacon of innovation, inclusivity, and commitment to educational excellence. 

Recently, we received reauthorization from the Colorado Department of Education for the next five years, affirming our program's quality and impact.

What is the Alternative Licensure Program at Eagle Rock?

The Alternative Licensure Program at Eagle Rock School is designed to provide an alternative pathway into the field of education for individuals who might not follow the traditional licensure route. Launched in 2004 as part of a broader fellowship program, it has grown from its roots in social justice and social change, influenced by partnerships with organizations like Public Allies. Today, the ALP is integral to the Eagle Rock Fellowship, offering six spots for licensure candidates who are also instructional fellows.

Our program is unique in its residential setting, which fosters a deep sense of community and belonging. Fellows live on campus, engaging with students and faculty in a holistic educational environment. This immersive experience, combined with interdisciplinary classes and collaborative teaching opportunities, equips our candidates with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in diverse educational settings.

The Importance of the Program

The success of the ALP is reflected in the high retention rates of our alumni, many of whom continue to make significant contributions to the field of education. Research supports the effectiveness of residency models like ours in increasing teacher retention, and our experience aligns with these findings. The support embedded in our program, from the gradual learning model over three trimesters to the comprehensive mentorship and feedback mechanisms, ensures that our candidates are well-prepared and confident in their teaching abilities.

In the first trimester, fellows primarily observe and learn from their mentors. The second trimester involves co-teaching, allowing for collaborative planning and shared instructional responsibilities. By the third trimester, fellows take on independent teaching roles, supported by ongoing feedback and guidance from their mentors and the licensure support staff. This structured progression allows for a smooth transition from novice to independent educator, embedding practical skills and pedagogical knowledge along the way.

Feedback is a cornerstone of the Eagle Rock culture. It is deeply embedded in our practices, ensuring continuous growth and improvement for both students and educators. Through observation feedback sessions, peer observation cycles, and formal feedback mechanisms, we create a dynamic and responsive learning environment. This culture of feedback extends to our licensure candidates, who are encouraged to both give and receive constructive input, fostering a community of mutual respect and continuous learning.

Why We Have the Alternative Licensure Program

At Eagle Rock, we are committed to addressing the barriers that prevent talented individuals from entering the field of education. Our ALP is designed to be accessible and supportive, offering a paid, free-of-charge pathway that includes a stipend, room and board, professional development funds, a $5000 grant at the end of the program, and support with test preparation. By reducing financial and logistical barriers, we aim to diversify the pool of educators and create more inclusive and representative educational spaces.

Belonging, diversity, and inclusion are woven throughout the ALP. We strive to create an environment where all participants feel valued and empowered to bring their full selves into their teaching practice. This commitment to inclusivity not only enriches the educational experience for our fellows but also models the kind of equitable and just classrooms we want to see across the educational landscape.

A Look Towards the Future

Our recent reauthorization from the Colorado Department of Education underscores the credibility and quality of the ALP. This process, akin to accreditation, involves demonstrating that we meet rigorous standards and benchmarks, ensuring that our licensure candidates are well-prepared to enter the field of education. With this reauthorization, we can continue to offer a robust and impactful program for the next five years, maintaining our partnership with the state and expanding our reach and influence in the world of teacher preparation.

The Alternative Licensure Program at Eagle Rock School is a testament to our commitment to innovative, inclusive, and high-quality teacher preparation. By providing a supportive and immersive learning environment, reducing barriers to entry, and embedding core values of belonging, equity, and inclusion, we are equipping the next generation of educators to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. We are excited to continue this journey and look forward to the many ways our fellows will contribute to the future of education.

If the Alternative Licensure Program sounds like a good fit for your educational journey, we invite you to learn more about our Eagle Rock Fellowship and reach out if you have questions.