About Jill Haffley

My name is Jill Haffley, and I’m running to represent House District 16 in the Colorado State House because I believe Colorado needs leaders grounded in service, guided by common sense, and willing to take responsibility—not just make speeches.

For 30 years, I taught U.S. History and Government in Colorado Springs, helping students understand our Constitution, individual liberty, personal responsibility, and the role citizens play in preserving a free society. A lifetime in the classroom taught me what works—and what doesn’t. Good intentions are not enough. Outcomes and accountability matter.

I was honored to be recognized as a six-time award-winning educator, including being named Outstanding American History Teacher for the State of Colorado by the Daughters of the American Revolution, and receiving multiple citizenship and education awards from the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Jilly Haffley - an educator with 30 years of experience

I was also honored by the Colorado Springs Rotary with the Diamond Award for Teacher of the Year—an award that is especially meaningful because teachers are nominated by their students for making a lasting impact. Knowing my students had a voice in that recognition was deeply humbling and reinforced my belief that service is measured by impact, not recognition.

That commitment to service extended beyond the classroom through my work with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. For more than a decade, I led a multi-generational effort pairing high school students with American veterans—many from World War II—to preserve their stories through recorded interviews and multimedia presentations now housed in the Library of Congress’ permanent collection. Those experiences taught students—and me—the true cost of freedom and the power of listening.

Jill Haffley with her canine family

After retiring from teaching, I continued serving my community by running for the D11 School Board, where I currently serve as Vice President. In that role, I have hands-on experience overseeing multi-million-dollar public budgets, weighing priorities, demanding transparency, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Fiscal stewardship isn’t political—it’s a responsibility.

Today, families in our community are feeling squeezed by rising costs, concerned about public safety, and frustrated by a government that too often feels disconnected. That’s why I’m running for the Colorado State House.

My priorities are clear:

  • Making Colorado Springs more affordable for families and young professionals,
  • Strengthening parental rights and respecting family decision-making,
  • Restoring accountability in public safety

Outside of public service, I volunteer with local dog rescues, remain active in my church, and am proud to call Colorado Springs my lifelong home. This campaign isn’t about me—it’s about service, responsibility, and earning trust.

I believe Colorado’s best days are ahead of us—and I look forward to earning your support.