Dawson School Photo #9 - A variety of sports are included at Dawson, including Canoe and Kayak, Cyclocross, and Yoga.

Dawson School

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Dawson School Photo #1 - Dawson School sits on a beautiful 107-acre campus, serving families from Boulder, Longmont, Broomfield, Erie, Lafayette, Louisville, and the surrounding area
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Dawson School Photo #1 - Dawson School sits on a beautiful 107-acre campus, serving families from Boulder, Longmont, Broomfield, Erie, Lafayette, Louisville, and the surrounding area
Dawson School Photo #2 - At Dawson, we believe in developing the creative side in all of our students. That is why the arts are a part of the curriculum at Dawson throughout the entire K-12 program.
Dawson School Photo #3 - Dawson students take an active role in their education. Experiential Education is emphasized across all grades and classes.
Dawson School Photo #4 - Each fall, the entire high school participates in class trips to a number of locations around the state. Students learn camping skills, canoeing, leadership, team building and participate in community service.
Dawson School Photo #5 - Dawson does national searches to make sure we have a top notch faculty to work with our students. The average class size is a very teachable 15 with an overall student to teacher ratio of 7:1. Dawson offers 16 AP and honors classes
Dawson School Photo #6 - College Counseling is provided for all students at Dawson. This includes having a panel of alumni come back each year to speak with Upper School students.
Dawson School Photo #7 - The annual Cultural Celebration gives an opportunity for all Dawson families to share their customs and traditions.
Dawson School Photo #8 - Physical education is a part of the school day for all students in grades K-8. Students in grades 6-8 compete in a variety of sports throughout the year.
Dawson School Photo #9 - High school students can choose between the 14 varsity sports offered at Dawson each year!
Dawson School Photo #10 - A variety of sports are included at Dawson, including Canoe and Kayak, Cyclocross, and Yoga.
Dawson School is a K-12 college-preparatory school located in Boulder County.
School mission: Dawson is dedicated to excellence of mind, body, and character.We prepare students, through challenging and relevant learning,to become creative, resilient problem-solvers who bring their best to the world.
Dawson graduates are young men and women who achieve their individual potential, savor life, and meet the challenges of the world.

Quick Stats (2024-25)

  • Top Ranked CO School
  • Grades: Kindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 515 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $32,130
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Dawson School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Colorado for:

Category
Attribute
Sports offered

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Mild Learning Differences
Year Founded
1970
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details

Student Body

Total Students
515 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
14%
State avg.: 25%
Students by Grade
Dawson School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
75 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
75%
Average Class Size
15 students
Number of AP Courses
16 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, AP Computer Science A, AP Computer Science Principles, AP English Language and Composition, AP English Literature & Composition, AP Environmental Science, AP French Language and Culture, AP Human Geography, AP Physics C: Mechanics, AP Spanish Language and Culture, AP U.S. Government & Politics, AP U.S. History
Average SAT score
1385
(Out of 1600)
Average ACT score
31
(Out of 36)
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
K-5 required to wear more formal attire

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tiered tuition: K-2, 3-5, 6-12
Summer Program Cost Notes
Summer camps - sports, arts, technology, academics. Costs vary.
% on Financial Aid
18%
Admissions Director
Scott Schneider
Admissions Associate
Chari Nickerson
Endowment Size
$4 million

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
7 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Robotics Teams, Rock Climbing, Speech and Debate Team, Student-led Clubs

Arts and Music Programs:
Theatrical Productions

Recreational Athletic Programs:
Canoe & Kayak Team, Yoga

School Notes

  • For over 50 years, Dawson School has been offering students a remarkable educational program combining challenging college-preparatory academics, robust athletics and arts programs, and renowned experiential and outdoor education, along with leadership and character development. It is a unique combination.
  • Dawson`s 500+ students are organized into a Lower (K-5), Middle (6-8), and Upper School (9-12). From the 10+ hours per week of technology, art, music, PE, library/media study, and Spanish in the Lower School through the 47 sports teams and 20 arts programs in Middle and Upper school, the depth and breadth of Dawson`s program has led to it regularly being voted best in the region. Dawson has a student:faculty ratio of 7:1, average class sizes of 15, and an athletics program voted 12th in the state across all divisions.
  • The 107-acre Dawson campus includes many features: two full gyms, tennis courts, soccer, lacrosse, and baseball fields, a cyclocross course, and a large-scale challenge course; an Arts Center with theater, dance studio, music, and fine arts rooms; a new Dining Commons that is also used for meetings and events; a new Learning Commons a combined modern library and student center that is a popular hub on campus.
  • The Dawson Center for Innovation opened in November 2020. This remarkable 25,000 square foot, LEED-certified building is designed as a multi-purpose space to foster leading-edge learning and creating. The space includes science classrooms and labs with special features such as multiple stoves/ovens for food chemistry and special beams designed to hold extra weight for physics experiments. There are maker spaces, design and creation areas equipped with laser and plasma cutters, woodworking and metal working equipment, and 3D and large-scale printers, and flexible space for group learning and events.
  • Dawson is also committed to the development of character and to the social-emotional wellbeing of its community. The school actively promotes the exchange of diverse perspectives, and integrates four key virtues respect, compassion, courage, and integrity into every aspect of community life. Leadership opportunities are wide ranging, and students are encouraged to explore new passions, and to find and use their voice.
  • Dawson`s college counseling program stresses fit, emphasizing that "college is a match to be made, not a prize to be won." There is a 1:30 ratio of college counselor to students, so each student can receive detailed, individualized guidance. Students go on to a wide ranging selection of schools, including Ivy League, public university, research institutions, private colleges. In addition, each fall, over 150 different colleges and universities travel to Dawson`s campus to meet its upperclassmen, providing students extended, face-to-face time with the people who will ultimately be reading their college application. Dawson has a 100% graduation rate, 100% of its students are accepted to four-year accredited institutions, and over $5 million in scholarships are offered annually to its 60 graduates.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Dawson School cost?
Dawson School's tuition is approximately $32,130 for private students.
Does Dawson School offer a summer program?
Yes, Dawson School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Dawson School offer?
Dawson School offers 11 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Cycling, Golf, Kayaking, Lacrosse, Mountain Biking, Soccer, Tennis and Volleyball. Dawson School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Colorado for most sports offered.
What is Dawson School's ranking?
Dawson School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Colorado for: Highest average SAT score, Highest average ACT score, Largest student body and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Dawson School?
The application deadline for Dawson School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (13 reviews)
5  
I could not be more grateful for my last three years at Dawson! As someone who started at Dawson as a new freshman, within the first couple days, I felt like I had found my home. One of my favorite things about Dawson is that each and every teacher/staff member cares about me not only academically, but also as a human being. I feel like I have built strong connections with the teachers/staff and I know I can go to them whenever I need them for any type of support! I also believe that Dawson is full of some of the best and most opportunities in the area! As someone who started Dawson just as a volleyball player, I am going into senior year being involved in theatre, tennis, and a huge variety of clubs! I see it as a place that you make it to be, and you truly see the uniqueness of Dawson's resources when you put the time into using them! It is also a very welcoming environment where students are not afraid to jump outside their comfort zone/try a new activity! Dawson is incredible!
- Posted by
5  
I have gone to Dawson for 10 fantastic years. The teachers are absolutely incredible. Every teacher I have had has truly cared for me and my classmates in a way you don't see in public school. They are highly educated and interested in their respective subjects making the rest of us similarly enthused. Over the years, this place has truly become a second home to me. I could never overstate my gratefulness for this school. It is where I have learned all I know and grown into entering my senior year. I hope that as many kids as possible get to share this experience.
- Posted by
5  
I never intended for my kids to attend a private school but when it came time for our daughter to start Kindergarten, our local schools were busting at the seams. So we decided to take a tour of Dawson! I was sold the minute I stepped onto the campus. The grounds were beautiful, the classrooms were inviting, the opportunities were endless, the lunch options were incredible, and more importantly, the staff and students were so warm and visibly happy to be there.This is will be our 8th year at Dawson and my kids have never been happier! They STILL love going to school and as a parent that is all I've ever wanted for them. For their school to foster a love of learning in a nurturing environment where they felt at home. They continue to have kind and compassionate classmates and teachers that they can trust and rely on, which is everything! Dawson has provided that year after year for our kids and for that, I will forever be grateful! If you're thinking about Dawson, just take the tour!
- Posted by
5  
I just completed my first year at Dawson as part of the faculty and I love it here. The faculty and staff are incredible people. Warm, intelligent, and utterly dedicated to the health and success of every student. The campus is also incredible and I feel so lucky to work on such a beautiful campus each day. As a parent whose own daughter went to and graduated from neighboring public schools, I can testify that there is a Dawson difference. The caliber of teaching and college counseling is unmatched, and the individualized attention students receive and the relationships they build here are incredible.
- Posted by
5  
I've been at this school for 9 years. Great classes, campus, food, teachers—I could go on. It's a great school that feels like a small, supportive community. You will gain so many wonderful memories and experiences with the people at Dawson.
- Posted by
5  
I have a daughter in 8th grade and a son in 7th grade who started at Dawson in March 2023. While middle school can be challenging they have really enjoyed the small class sizes and experiences that Dawson has to offer.
- Posted by
5  
I have been at Dawson for two years beginning last year in 7th grade. I felt that coming in as a new student and finding new friends was very easy since everyone respects anyone here.The envirnoment is very inclusive and everyone hangs out with everyone. Along with this, the small class sizes are great and allow for one on one time with teacher. This has really helped me understand material that I would otherwise struggle with. Dawson provides a variety of arts, sports and languages which make up a very well rounded education. I'm very glad that I came to Dawson.
- Posted by
5  
After 11 years as a Dawson parent of 3 children, I am more pleased than ever with the high quality education provided by supportive teachers. Through Experiential Education my kids gained invaluable cultural exposure with travel to China and Turkey. The College Counselors provided invaluable guidance through the stressful college application process. The rigorous curriculum enabled my kids to transition smoothly to college. I am very grateful to Dawson and so are my kids!
- Posted by
5  
This is our sixth year at Dawson and we have kids in the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools. Our four kids are all very different in both personality and academic ability. The teachers at Dawson have been extremely willing to help tailor their program to help my quick learner stay focused and also tutor my slow reader. All academic, creative and athletic talents my kids are passionate about have been supported, fostered and celebrated at Dawson. My kids have all gained confidance in themselves because of the amazing teachers at Dawson.
- Posted by
5  
I am a Dawson alum. Great school, great faculty that care about the students. You will be supported here and you will gain experiences that carry with you long after you graduate.
- Posted by
5  
Our daughter is extremely happy at Dawson. She loves the teachers, and all of the projects/activities keep her engaged and excited. The teachers are wonderful and the class sizes are very small. The "specials" are as important to the education as are the core classes. Dawson provides a great, well-rounded education, while ensuring emotional health and growth. And the campus is fabulous! It is nice for the kids to have so much space and access to the outdoors. The Lower School kids have recess three times a day...a perfect way to keep them active and engaged--both inside and outside of the classroom. Our experience at Dawson has been great!
- Posted by
5  
We are very happy with our kids at Dawson. Both the Middle and Upper Schools have small class sizes and very enthusiastic teachers. My kids have developed close relationships both with the teachers and other kids. Great arts program and the sports program is getting better. A lot of parent involvement, it is a great community and we are happy to be a part of it.
- Posted by
5  
Love it here! Teachers and administrators are experienced, forward thinking and enthusiastic. Graduates are equipped to succeed not only in college, but in life! Great arts & sports programs, plus awesome experiential learning opportunities. Facilities are unparalleled.
- Posted by

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Quick Stats (2024-25)

  • Top Ranked CO School
  • Grades: Kindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 515 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $32,130
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Boulder County, CO is $17,682 for elementary schools and $20,145 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Boulder County, CO is 93% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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