The Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) Education Certificate of Proficiency for Endorsement prepares educators to meet the needs of K-12 multilingual learners in today’s diverse classrooms, whether in monolingual or dual-language settings. This program equips teachers with the knowledge and skills to create inclusive environments, implement effective instructional strategies, and celebrate the cultural and linguistic assets of all students.
Teachers seeking this added endorsement from the Colorado Department of Education must hold a valid Colorado professional teacher license.
By completing this certificate, teachers become eligible to add the CLD Endorsement to their Colorado teaching license. This 24-credit (eight-course) program equips educators to work with students from diverse family and cultural backgrounds. Participants will develop the skills to support the linguistic repertoire, academic and social-emotional growth of emergent bilinguals using research-based professional practices and family-centered approaches to educational excellence. Each course includes required practicum hours in partnership with local school districts.
In order to add any endorsement to a Colorado teaching license, once students complete the required coursework at CMC, they must take all required assessments, obtain a program verification form from the Director of Education or fill out the Endorsement Worksheets on the CDE website, and apply directly through CDE to receive the endorsements. The state also has experience requirements on top of any required classes.
The curriculum in this certificate includes many of the courses in the Elementary Education Bachelor’s Degree and credits may be applied toward that degree.
Completers of this program will receive a Certificate of Occupational Proficiency from Colorado Mountain College in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) Education.
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