Careers

Inspire. Innovate. Belong.

At Dawson, we believe that exceptional education is built on the strength, expertise, and dedication of our faculty and staff. We seek committed, creative, and engaged educators who embrace collaboration, maintain high expectations for themselves and their students, and foster meaningful relationships with colleagues and families.

Our Mission
Dawson School 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.

My eleven years as a Dawson student shaped who I am today. Formative interactions with Dawson faculty members shaped many of the qualities that drive my work as a teacher: an enduring love for learning; a community-oriented ethics of equity, justice, and environmental resilience; and a commitment to interdisciplinary interests. When the opportunity arose to rejoin the Dawson community - I jumped at the chance. It an immense to exercise my love of teaching and hopefully pass this value on to my remarkable students
Ben Hockenbarron '09, Upper School Social Studies Teacher, with Dawson since 2023

The moment I stepped onto Dawson’s campus for my interview, I knew it was a special place—beautiful, welcoming, and full of opportunity. I originally came for a four-week role, but the students’ energy and creativity made it impossible to leave. Five years later, I’m still here, now serving as Middle School Dean, invigorated by our school’s commitment to restorative discipline and meaningful student growth. As a parent, I’m thrilled that my own daughter will be continuing her own Dawson journey as middle schooler. Dawson is exactly where I want to be—both professionally and personally.
Josh Gaffga, Middle School Dean and Theater Teacher, with Dawson since 2020

I truly enjoy welcoming families to the Lower School, and I'm often the first teacher they have the chance to work with. I'm grateful for the small class sizes and the opportunity to collaborate with such a dedicated team of faculty. Dawson has a supportive, engaged community that genuinely cares about the success of both the students and the school.
Linda Parker, Kindergarten Teacher, with Dawson since 2020

I work at Dawson because I have the freedom to meet students where they are and design projects and lessons that reflect their interests and passions. I appreciate the supportive community of faculty and staff, and I truly value the meaningful relationships I build with students—both in the classroom and on Winterim and Class Trips. I feel empowered to be creative, knowing the community supports and appreciates it.
Sarena Hebebrand '05, Art Department Chair, Art and Innovation and Technology teacher, with Dawson since 2012

I choose to work at Dawson for its exceptional community of faculty and staff. Everyone is welcoming, kind, positive, and professional, all working together with a shared commitment to supporting students' best interests in a collaborative and purposeful environment. The school values each teacher’s expertise in both their teaching ability and subject areas, fostering a culture of respect and support. It’s an inspiring place where I feel motivated to contribute and grow every day.
Elizabeth Perez, Middle School Science Teacher, with Dawson since 2022

I continue to work at Dawson because of the amazing growth opportunities that it has provided me throughout my career. I have been encouraged and supported in my ongoing professional journey to take on new challenges, try new things, and constantly find new ways to improve how we support our students and faculty in their learning. I feel valued by my colleagues and students, and I know that my work has a meaningful impact on their lives.
Jeff Ellenbogen, Director of Innovation and Technology, with Dawson since 2001

I chose to work at Dawson because I wanted to be part of an organization making a positive impact on the local community. I’m so grateful to have landed here. Every day, I get to work alongside an incredible group of professionals—smart, kind, and wholeheartedly dedicated to the success of every child who walks through our doors. It feels pretty magical. Seeing the difference Dawson makes in kids' lives inspires me to do my best work, give back, and support my amazing peers.
CHRIS INGWALSON, Director of Marketing and Communication, with Dawson since 2023

I chose to work at Dawson because there's no school quite like it in the area - the people, the campus, the professional opportunities cannot be beat.
Sarah Morissette, Director of College Counseling, with Dawson since 2023

I chose to work at Dawson because I wanted to work with like-minded educators who believe children learn best through experiences. I craved to be in a community that was more than just a school, and Dawson has delivered. Our teachers have authentic relationships with each other and their students, and it makes an indelible difference. My daughter has also attended Dawson since Kindergarten, which has been an amazing experience for her. My wife and I are so happy that she has had the opportunity to learn and grow in this fantastic place.
Dr. David D'Ercole, Lower School Director, with Dawson since 2020

For the past 24 years, I’ve had the privilege of growing and evolving at Dawson, serving as a teacher, department chair, and managing the school’s web properties and data systems. The flexibility within the classroom allowed me to tailor instruction to students’ needs. Beyond the work, the relationships with dedicated colleagues and supportive families have made this school feel like home. My own children received an excellent education here, further deepening my appreciation. The opportunities for growth and the sense of belonging have kept me inspired and committed to this incredible journey.
Kris Deardorff, Data Systems and Web Administrator, with Dawson since 2001

Life at Dawson

As a student-centered, college-preparatory school for grades K-12, Dawson provides a dynamic environment where faculty are empowered to innovate, personalize learning, and inspire students to reach their full potential.

Innovative Teaching Environment
The flexibility and tools to create student-centered learning, introduce modern skills, and build adaptable spaces that spark collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.
Professional Growth
We invest in our faculty and staff through workshops, conferences, and collaborative learning opportunities.
An Engaged Community
Be part of a supportive, relationship-driven environment where you feel valued and connected.
A True Sense of Belonging
Join a culture where diversity is celebrated, collaboration is the norm, and every individual contributes to our shared success.
Work-Life Balance
We prioritize well-being with reasonable class sizes and a collaborative culture.

Benefits

401(k) Retirement Plan with employer contribution.
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with HSA/FSA options, plus free telehealth services.
Wellness Benefits including an employee assistance program, on-site gym, outdoor pool, certified athletic trainer, and free chef-prepared lunches on a walkable, secure campus.
Life Insurance with additional voluntary coverage options.
Generous Time-off including flexible sick time and paid vacation days.
Continuous Learning with professional development support to keep you growing.
Sustainability Perks like free parking with EV charging stations and ECO Pass for RTD.