Teachers Can Apply for 2026-27 Career Development Plan | The Locally Times

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has opened applications for the 2026-27 Career Ladder Program.

Teachers across Missouri can now apply for the 2026-27 Missouri Career Development and Teacher Excellence Plan, also known as the Career Ladder Program. The application window opened on April 1, 2026, and will close on April 30, 2026. To be eligible for the program, each school district must submit a new or revised District Career Ladder Plan (DCLP). The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) oversees this initiative, which aims to provide professional development and career advancement opportunities for educators. ## Program Details The Career Ladder Program is designed to support teachers in their professional growth. While the specific details of the DCLP requirements are not fully outlined in the provided information, the application process is managed by DESE. The program's opening date of April 1, 2026, and the deadline of April 30, 2026, are critical for districts and individual educators to note. ## What to Watch Districts should ensure their DCLPs are submitted by the April 30 deadline. Teachers interested in participating should consult their district's administration for specific application procedures and requirements related to the 2026-27 school year.