Chris Hinger has served as principal of Pagosa Springs Middle School since 2003. His experience in public education spans over 30 years; he began there as an 8^th grade Earth Science teacher and also was a football and wrestling coach.

Hinger is a strong advocate for public education and believes in the potential of every student to succeed. In 2009, the American Council on Rural Special Education recognized Pagosa Springs Middle School’s exemplary implementation of programming that provides greater time and academic support to students. In 2014, Hinger was awarded the Healthy School Champion Principal Award by the Colorado Health Foundation for his leadership in ensuring that students have access to daily physical education and health classes. In 2015, the middle school received the Governor's Award for being the top-rated Healthy School Champion in Colorado for its coordination of student wellness efforts and implementation of best practices in student health.  Hinger takes great pride in offering a dynamic, well-rounded educational experience for all students that is focused on continuous improvement.   

In addition to his career in education, Hinger assists in the operation of a family guest ranch during the summer months.  Families return year after year to the foot of Wolf Creek Pass to stay in the rustic log cabins and experience all that Colorado has to offer. 

A product of Pagosa Springs Schools, Hinger graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Biology. He earned his Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from New Mexico Highlands University in 2003.

Hinger loves his family, the mountains and strives to share his love of people and his passion for the outdoors with everyone.