The Mancos School District Board of Education has announced that it has selected Audrey Hazleton as its next superintendent after a search guided by McPherson & Jacobson and Christy Sinner.
Hazleton, the middle school deputy principal at Singapore American School, will start Tuesday, July 1.
“Mancos’ close-knit community, cultural and historical richness and natural environment provides a foundation for connection and exploration, something we all need whether we're in kindergarten or full-grown adults,” Hazleton told The Journal. “Professionally, I jumped at the unique opportunity to be a superintendent in a small district as it allows me to be closely connected to daily learning, culture and operations while concurrently leading strategically for the long-term success of the district.”
Hazleton, who grew up on the Front Range, served as an elementary school principal in the Roaring Fork School District from 2013 to 2022. Prior to that, she was a teacher at Olander School for Project Based Learning in Fort Collins and worked as a classroom teacher and environmental educator in Minnesota.
Her background in project-based learning, curriculum development and instructional coaching stood out during the selection process, according to a news release from the district.
The board interviewed two finalists the week of May 5.
“Mrs. Hazleton brought forth a fair kindness, and demonstrated the leadership acumen that the district was seeking,” said board President Emily Hutcheson-Brown. “We are looking forward to the benefit of her passion for education. The future is bright with Mrs. Hazleton's influence in the Mancos community.”
Hazleton said she will strive to cultivate a culture of trust and open communication in the school district and emphasize Mancos’ Portrait of a Graduate.
“Every student should be engaged in daily learning experiences that are student-centered, project-based, rigorous and grounded in the Mancos Portrait of a Graduate competencies,” Hazleton said. “I will listen deeply to ensure we build on the great things that are already happening for students in Mancos schools and identify our areas for improvement. It's critical that I ensure that resources and systems provide the district with stability and support our educators as they serve our students.”
Hazleton and her husband, Chris, have three sons in college, one in Minnesota and two in Colorado.
“We're excited to return to Colorado after being abroad for the last three years on a work and family adventure in Singapore and Southeast Asia,” Hazleton said. “On a typical weekend you might find me tackling a house project or out on a trail run with friends and our dog, Monty. ... If you see me out and about, please introduce yourself.”
