The Colorado Department of Education is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Educator Recruitment and Retention Program, which offers up to $10,000 in financial aid for aspiring teachers.

Established through a 2021 law, the grant program provides financial assistance to students pursuing careers in education, specifically in “statewide shortage areas,” such as language arts, social studies, and special education. To be eligible for the grant, students must be enrolled in a state-approved educator preparation program and commit to working in the position for at least three years. 

Dr. Margarita Tovar, the Department of Education’s chief talent officer, Colorado is one of many states facing teacher shortages, especially in rural communities. 

“Programs like ERR show what’s possible when we invest in people and their potential,” she said. “Every student deserves a great teacher and every aspiring educator deserves a pathway that supports their journey. These kinds of efforts don’t just fill classrooms. They help strengthen the future of our communities.”

According to the education department, nearly 90% of grant recipients remained in Colorado public school classrooms a year or more after receiving assistance, and nearly half said they would not have become teachers without it. An estimated 94% of recipients said the grant positively affected their careers. 

“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. “More than 2,000 future teachers have already benefited from this support, and we look forward to reaching even more in the year ahead.”

Applications are open from July 1 through Sept. 30. The program is in high demand, with officials warning applicants to apply quickly.