Maybe you have always wanted to be a teacher, or perhaps you have recently unearthed a passion for teaching and learning. Friends Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) draws a variety of candidates, including (but not limited to): career-changers, those who have pursued other degree paths, and others who may have been teaching for some time, whether in a lead or supporting role, and are now seeking professional training, licensure, and perhaps pursuing the optional Master’s degree while they are at it! Combining a full year of mentor-guided teaching experience (More than 1,000 hours!) with relevant, rigorous, and directly-applicable coursework and instruction (over 225 hours!), the Friends TPP prepares aspiring candidates for a sustainable teaching career. Graduates earn a Colorado Elementary or Early Childhood Initial Teacher license, as well as an optional Master’s degree through the University of Colorado Denver. Teacher Candidates (TCs) are placed in one of our 12-plus regional partner schools where they work Monday through Thursday in partnership with a mentor teacher. On Fridays, TCs come together for “Seminar”. We bring in a variety of instructors to teach required coursework for teacher licensure. This instruction is directly applicable, so candidates can immediately try out new methods and strategies in their classrooms all year long. Our goal is to give aspiring teachers the tools, teachings, and support systems to be successful, impactful educators and life-long, life-wide, and life-deep learners.