Traditions, Co-Curriculars,
and Clubs
Traditions
One of the greatest joys of being part of a community with a rich history spanning over 50 years is celebrating the cherished traditions that define our school. These traditions connect us to generations of students—past, present, and future. They strengthen our sense of community, add meaning to the year, and create unforgettable memories.
Explore the heart of Dawson’s traditions here!
Class Trips
Class trips are a highlight for middle and upper school students! Upper schoolers start the year off-campus with team-building and adventure, while middle schoolers wrap up their year with a weeklong trip to explore, have fun, and bond with classmates. These trips allow students to build friendships, learn teamwork, and create memories that make each school year unique and meaningful. It’s all about new experiences and having a blast together.
Dawson Fest and Pony Puff
Dawson Fest is our annual fall festival, bringing the entire school together for games, activities, and tons of fun! A favorite event of the day is Pony Puff, a spirited flag football game where everyone comes together to cheer and compete. This lively celebration fosters school pride, community, and friendship, making Dawson Fest and Pony Puff highlights of the year that everyone looks forward to enjoying together.
Halloween
Halloween at Dawson is a fun, spirited event that the whole school enjoys! Lower school students trick-or-treat around campus, middle school students create a haunted house, and upper school students have their own Halloween activities. Costumes, decorations, and spooky vibes fill the campus, making Halloween a fun, creative day for all grades to celebrate together. It’s a festive tradition that brings smiles and a little bit of spookiness to everyone.
Dad's Dish
Dad’s Dish is a beloved tradition where dads come to campus to serve a special Thanksgiving meal to students, faculty, and staff. For over a decade, this heartwarming event has celebrated gratitude and brought families into the Dawson community. With delicious food prepared by our dining team, it’s a chance to connect, give back, and enjoy a shared meal with everyone. Dad’s Thanksgiving is all about thankfulness and family spirit!
College Care Packages
College Care Packages show Dawson alumni that we still care! Midway through their first semester, alumni receive surprise packages packed with snacks, notes, and reminders of Dawson. This small but thoughtful gesture provides a touch of home and reminds graduates that their Dawson family is cheering them on. It’s a fun way to show our continued support and stay connected, even as they begin their college journeys.
Homecoming and Prom
Homecoming and Prom are unforgettable high school events celebrating Dawson spirit. Homecoming is held on campus in the fall with music, dancing, and tons of energy, following Dawson Fest. Prom, held off-campus each spring, is a formal event with elegant attire, dancing, and photos to capture the night. Both events give upper school students time to celebrate, bond with friends, and create memories that last beyond the school year.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Assembly
The MLK Assembly honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with an all-school gathering each January. The program features speeches, performances, and reflections on Dr. King’s legacy, focusing on civil rights, equality, and social justice. This special assembly promotes unity and understanding, encouraging students and staff to reflect on how they can contribute to a fairer, more compassionate world. It’s an inspiring tradition that strengthens Dawson’s commitment to positive change.
Founder's Day
Founder’s Day honors G.B. "Jerry" Henderson, who started Colorado Junior Republic in 1970, which later became Alexander Dawson School. This day celebrates Dawson’s history and values with school wide activities that bring the community together. Founder’s Day is a reminder of Dawson’s roots and growth, offering students the chance to reflect on the past and build pride in their school’s journey. It’s a day filled with unity, gratitude, and Dawson spirit.
Moving Up Day
Moving Up Day celebrates students in grades 5 and 8 as they transition to the next school division. This tradition includes speeches, awards, and reflections, recognizing the hard work and growth of each student. It’s an exciting event for students and families alike, marking achievements and building excitement for the next chapter. Moving Up Day is all about celebrating progress, building confidence, and preparing for the future.
Senior Activites
Senior Activities bring Dawson’s seniors together for memorable moments throughout their final year. Events like painting senior parking spots, the Senior Retreat, Senior Projects, and the Senior Dinner create bonding experiences and lasting memories. These special activities honor the seniors’ time at Dawson, celebrating their journey and achievements while giving them time to connect with each other. It’s a year of friendships, reflection, and excitement for the next chapter.
Senior Honoring
Senior Honoring is a Dawson tradition that takes place the day before graduation. Each senior is honored by a teacher, coach, or advisor who shares a personal tribute, celebrating the student’s contributions and achievements. The speaker is a surprise, adding to the day’s excitement. This heartfelt ceremony shows appreciation for each senior, leaving them with a meaningful farewell as they prepare to graduate. It’s a special, unforgettable part of their Dawson journey.
Commencement
Commencement celebrates our seniors’ achievements with a memorable ceremony attended by family, friends, and teachers. Graduates cross the stage to receive their diplomas, marking the completion of high school and the start of new adventures. With speeches from students and faculty, the event reflects on memories and encourages the graduates for the future. Commencement is a special farewell, a time to celebrate accomplishments, and a launch into exciting possibilities.
Spirit Weeks and Tailgating
Spirit Weeks and Tailgating bring school pride to life! Spirit Weeks feature themed dress-up days that get everyone excited, while Tailgating adds food, music, and fun before big games. These traditions bring together students, families, and friends, creating energy and excitement for Dawson’s teams. Spirit Weeks and Tailgating are all about fun, unity, and cheering on our school together. They make game days a memorable part of the Dawson experience.
Winter Carnival
Winter Carnival is Dawson’s way to celebrate the season and have fun! Students from all grades compete in winter-themed activities, earning points for their teams. Since the early 2000s, this tradition has brought everyone together to break up the winter months with games, laughter, and friendly competition. The winning team’s color is painted on a special ski, adding a touch of history and pride. Winter Carnival brings smiles, energy, and school spirit to everyone.
Winterim
Winterim is a week of hands-on learning and adventure for all Dawson students. Each grade explores new experiences, from Lower School field trips to local and travel options for Middle and Upper Schools. Winterim encourages students to try new things, apply their skills outside the classroom, and bond with friends. It’s an exciting break from routine, filled with unique activities that inspire curiosity, friendship, and growth through experiential learning.
Battle of the Books
Battle of the Books is a competitive reading club for grades 3-5! Teams read selected books and compete in trivia-style battles that test their knowledge. Winning teams from each grade advance to compete with other schools, making each round even more exciting. It’s a great way to dive into stories, work with friends, and show off your book knowledge. Battle of the Books is perfect for readers who love a fun challenge!
Co-Curriculars
Upper School
High school is a time for growth, discovery, and building friendships. At our Upper School, students participate in athletics or co-curricular activities daily for two of three seasons.
Competitive sports like soccer, tennis, and canoe and kayak foster teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Students can also thrive in theater, speech and debate, or robotics. Theater builds confidence on stage and behind the scenes, speech and debate sharpens communication skills, and robotics inspires innovation and problem-solving.
With expert guidance, these activities help students grow, excel, and find their passions.
Middle School
Middle school is a time to explore interests and develop skills. With co-curriculars built into the school day and divided into quarters, students can try something new each term, keeping their experience fresh and exciting.
From basketball and soccer to theater, debate, and art, students build teamwork, creativity, and resilience. Problem solvers thrive in robotics and stock market activities, sparking curiosity and innovation.
With diverse options, students discover talents, connect with peers, and grow in confidence—all in a fun, supportive environment that builds a foundation for success.
Clubs
Clubs at Dawson are student-driven, offering a unique chance for students to lead, innovate, and pursue their passions. With a wide variety of options, each club is created and managed by students who bring their interests and ideas to life. Get involved, connect with peers, and make your mark by joining a club or starting your own!
Upper School
Clubs
| Bakers Club |
| Combine your love for baking with helping others! Organize bake sales to support local charities while sharing delicious treats with classmates and faculty. It’s sweet fun with a purpose. |
| Chess Club |
| Join Chess Club to sharpen your strategy skills! Play casually with friends, compete in regional tournaments, or test your skills in our own championship. Everyone is welcome—beginners to grandmasters! |
| Climbing Club |
| Discover Colorado’s favorite sport—rock climbing! Build strength, master techniques, and learn safety skills for outdoor adventures. No experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm and enjoy climbing with new friends. |
| Eclipse |
| Be part of the team behind Dawson’s school publication! Write, edit, and create content that showcases the stories and events shaping our community. A creative hub for aspiring writers and editors. |
| Film Club |
| Relax and connect through movies! Watch and discuss films while unwinding from a busy day. It’s a club for movie lovers and anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling. |
| Gender and Sexualities Alliance |
| Build an inclusive community in GSA! Discuss LGBTQ+ issues, support meaningful causes, and create safe spaces for all students. Be part of making Dawson a welcoming place for everyone. |
| Jewish Student Union |
| Celebrate culture and faith in the JSU! Plan events around holidays, discuss meaningful topics, and promote awareness of Jewish traditions in a friendly, open environment. |
| Joy for Juniors |
| Engage with lower and middle schoolers with STEM, art and game like activities. It is an opportunity to teach, mentor, and be a friend to a younger student. |
| Lost Keys |
| Sing your heart out with Lost Keys! Perform show tunes, pop hits, and even sea shanties at school events and sports games. A fun vocal group for music enthusiasts. |
| MOSS: Make our Schools Safe |
| Take action to prevent school violence. Join MOSS to raise awareness, fundraise, and lobby lawmakers to improve safety. Be part of a national effort for meaningful change |
| NHS/Leadership Club |
| NHS/Leadership ClubGrow as a leader in NHS! Focus on scholarship, service, and character through community projects and leadership activities. A perfect way to give back while building lifelong skills. |
| No Place for Hate |
| As part of the AntiDefamation League, We work in partnership with schools, organizations and communities to design and deliver anti-bias education. When we learn, as individuals, how to challenge bias, discrimination and hate – together, we have the capacity to foster equity and inclusion. |
| PeaceJam Club |
| Connect with young leaders and Nobel Laureates in PeaceJam! Tackle local and global service projects, inspired by those making the world better. Make a difference while learning about global leadership. |
| Stang Gang |
| Bring the energy to Dawson sports events! Join Stang Gang to cheer, organize spirit activities, and make every game unforgettable. It’s all about school spirit and fun with friends. |
| Students for Bipartisanship |
| Bridge political divides with Citizens for Bipartisanship! Discuss ideas, encourage respectful dialogue, and tackle civic issues. It’s a space for future leaders passionate about collaboration and understanding. |
| Town Council |
| Lead, plan, and make a difference in Town Council! Represent your peers, organize events, and bring fresh ideas to improve student life. It’s leadership in action. |
| Women in Science Club |
| Explore science and innovation with Women in Science! Dive into passion projects, connect with industry experts, and raise awareness for women’s health and STEM opportunities in a supportive environment. |
| Women’s Self Defense Club |
| Empower yourself with self-defense skills! Learn practical techniques from a black-belt instructor to protect yourself while building confidence in a supportive and engaging environment. |
Middle School Clubs
| A Cappella |
| Love to sing? In A Cappella, you’ll learn popular songs, practice vocal skills, and harmonize with others. Singers of all levels are welcome to make music and have fun together in this awesome, all-vocal group. |
| Botany and Gardening |
| Grow your green thumb! In Botany and Gardening, you’ll learn to plant, prune, and care for plants around campus. Explore different gardening techniques and make our school more beautiful. |
| CEO Skills |
| Want to be your own boss? CEO Skills teaches goal-setting, organization, and time management to help you lead with confidence. You’ll learn valuable skills that are useful in school and beyond – great for future entrepreneurs! |
| Chinese Calligraphy |
| Learn the art of Chinese writing! In Chinese Calligraphy, you’ll use brush techniques to write traditional characters. It’s a calming way to improve focus and learn about a beautiful cultural tradition. |
| Classic Movies Club |
| Discover iconic movies! In Classic Movies Club, you’ll watch classic PG-rated films, learn about movie history, and discuss what makes them special. It’s a fun way to explore film and enjoy timeless stories. |
| Dawson Doers (Community Service) |
| Make a difference on campus! Help teachers, tidy up, or read to younger students. Dawson Doers is all about giving back, building friendships, and making school a better place for everyone. |
| Dungeons and Dragons |
| Join the adventure! In DnD Club, you’ll create characters, go on quests, and solve puzzles with friends. It’s a place for imaginative minds who love storytelling and teamwork. |
| GSA (Gender and Sexuality Alliance) |
| Create an inclusive community! In GSA, you’ll learn about LGBTQ+ topics, discuss current events, and plan activities to promote understanding and respect. It’s a welcoming club for building awareness and supporting everyone at school. |
| Jewelry Making |
| Design your own style! In Jewelry Making, you’ll create bracelets, earrings, and more through beading and other techniques. It’s all about creativity and making cool accessories you can wear or share. |
| Middle School Newspaper |
| Become a reporter! In Middle School Newspaper, you’ll create news stories, video clips, and announcements. From writing to filming, this club is all about sharing what’s happening at school with everyone. |
| Music Production |
| Get into the beat! In Music Production, you’ll create your own mixes, experiment with sounds, and record tracks using cool music technology. Perfect for aspiring music lovers who want to bring their ideas to life. |
| National Junior Honor Society |
| Join NJHS to make a difference! Work on projects that benefit your school and community, all while building leadership and teamwork skills. It’s a club for student leaders who want to take action and represent Dawson’s values with pride. |
| No Place For Hate |
| No Place For Hate is a student-led, community-based program aimed at combating bias, bullying, and racism by fostering inclusive and respectful environments in schools and communities. It encourages participants to engage in activities and initiatives that promote understanding and empathy. |
| Reading |
| Love books? Reading Club is all about spending time with your favorite stories in the Learning Commons. Share what you’re reading, discover new books, and enjoy a relaxing time with friends who love reading too. |
| Remote Control Car Club |
| Ready, set, race! Build, customize, and race remote-controlled cars on special tracks. Compete in head-to-head matches and see if you can cross the finish line first. It’s the perfect club for anyone who loves tinkering and thrilling races. |
| Rock Painting |
| Get creative with Rock Painting! You’ll learn painting basics and design colorful, fun rocks to share or keep. Try out dotting, stenciling, and more advanced techniques to make each rock unique. |
| Sports Skills Development |
| Improve your game! In this club, you’ll practice drills and build skills for middle school sports. It’s a great way to boost your confidence, gain an edge, and prepare for competitions in a friendly environment. |
| Town Council |
| Be a leader on campus! A student led organization who are elected by their peers. They plan, organize, and execute activities and events on campus. They are the student advocates and bridge the gap between the students and the administration. |