HB25-1307: Supporting Paraprofessionals on the Path to Becoming Teachers
This bill strengthens support for paraprofessionals (trained teaching assistants) in Colorado who are working toward becoming licensed teachers.
What the Bill Does:
Defines "Paraprofessional"
Officially adds a definition: A paraprofessional is a person trained to assist a licensed teacher.
Updates Statutes to Use the New Definition
Updates cross-references in education and retirement statutes to refer to the newly defined term.
Supports Paraprofessional-to-Teacher Programs
Emphasizes the state’s support for paraprofessionals who are pursuing bachelor’s degrees to qualify for professional teaching licenses.
Ensures these programs are highlighted by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE).
Improves Retirement Rehire Provisions
Allows retired paraprofessionals (and other key school staff like teachers and nurses) to return to work without a reduction in retirement benefits if:
There is a critical shortage.
They are hired for specific roles that benefit students or schools.
Bottom Line:
HB25-1307 promotes career advancement for paraprofessionals and helps address school staffing shortages—especially by allowing retired paraprofessionals to return to work without penalty and supporting their transition to full teaching roles.
Summary
Statutory Revision Committee. The bill repeals obsolete
references to the teacher residency expansion program (program), which was repealed in 2023.
Current law continues to reference the definition for
paraprofessional as it appeared in the program. The bill recreates the definition of paraprofessional for the current statutory uses of the term.
