You will begin your program taking coursework (usually six credits) in Foundations and Curriculum Development. You may progress at your own pace, working through coursework that focuses on: 

• Classroom management
• Literacy and the science of reading
• Classroom preparation and planning

You must successfully complete all regular coursework (18 credit hours) before beginning your supervised field experience in your final semester.

During your supervised field experience, you’ll have the opportunity for hands-on practice in a local classroom. You’ll show you know your stuff well enough to teach it! You’ll be evaluated using the New Mexico Public Education Department teacher evaluation standards. 

You have three options for completing your supervised field experience: 
1. Residency: You can become a paid teacher resident in one of Central New Mexico Community College’s residency pathways. As a resident, you'll spend a full (paid) school year co-teaching in a classroom alongside an experienced teacher. 
2. Student Teaching: You can student teach in a classroom with an experienced teacher over an entire semester. Student teaching is usually not paid. 
3. Teacher of Record: As a student in the Alternative Teacher Licensure Program, you are eligible to apply for an Alternative Level I New Mexico teaching license and work as a full-time, paid teacher as you complete your coursework. This option is best if you already have experience in the classroom. 

The Alternative Teacher Licensure Program provides flexible fieldwork pathways for hands-on experience in the classroom. Many students also gain experience as assistants or substitutes. Fieldwork is integrated into your coursework to help you practice teaching, classroom management, and student engagement, ensuring you're prepared for your own classroom.

This program prepares you to support all students, including multilingual learners and those with disabilities.

• Coursework covers culturally responsive teaching, special education and inclusive practices.
• Fieldwork provides hands-on experience with students who have different learning needs. 
• You will be equipped to create a supportive learning environment for all students. 

A collaborative support system will help you develop strong teaching practices.

• You’ll get support from experienced CNM faculty, many of whom are current educators.
• Faculty conduct regular classroom visits to provide personalized coaching and feedback.
• You will work closely with school-based cooperating teachers for hands-on guidance and mentorship.

The Alternative Teacher Licensure Program evolves by integrating research, student feedback and input from school districts. Collaborating with local districts, CNM aligns coursework and field experiences with real-world expectations. Regular feedback from candidates, alumni and teachers helps ensure that the program remains relevant, effective and supportive of future teachers.