Dr. Haptonstall is a seasoned educational leader with over 30 years of experience in K-12 education. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Colorado River BOCES, where he leads initiatives focused on improving student outcomes, such as alternative licensure and career and technical education (CTE) programs. Additionally, he serves as an Education Consultant for Performance Services, offering expertise in strategic planning and educational innovation for Colorado schools.
Dr. Haptonstall’s career includes prominent roles as Superintendent of Schools for both Mesa County School District No. 51 (2017–2018) and Garfield County School District No. 16 (2008–2017). Before these superintendent roles, he served as an Assistant Superintendent and Principal in Garfield and Mesa County schools, with his early career beginning as a Computer Science Teacher at East Middle School.
In addition to his work in K-12 education, Dr. Haptonstall has contributed to higher education as an adjunct professor at Colorado Mesa University, Western State Colorado University, and Adams State University, focusing on school improvement, change processes, and 21st-century learning.
Dr. Haptonstall is actively involved in state education leadership, currently serving on multiple boards and commissions, including the Colorado Association of School Executives (CASSA), the Colorado School Finance Project, and the Governor’s Business Experiential Learning Commission. His professional affiliations and committee work demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing educational practices and policies.
Education
- Capella University – Ph.D, Educational Leadership
- University of Colorado Denver – MA, Administration, Supervision and Curriculum Development
- Mesa State College – BA, History
