Director of Experiential Education

The Alexander Dawson School LLC; Lafayette (CO); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Dawson School in Lafayette, CO, seeks a passionate Director of Experiential Education to lead K-12 programs, the Challenge Course, and ExEd curriculum, joining a collaborative Leadership Team. This exempt, 12-month role focuses on shaping experiential learning across divisions within a supportive, growth‑oriented culture.

You will design competency‑based learning, coordinate Winterim and outdoor education, mentor faculty, manage safety and logistics, and advance a culture of inquiry, belonging,

Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate the K-12 Winterim program.
• Direct all K-12 Outdoor Education programs, including class trips and overnight excursions.
• Oversee the operation, safety, and programming of the school’s Challenge Course.
• In collaboration with CTL, Division Directors, and the Head of School, design and coordinate the annual beginning-of-year Faculty Retreat.
• Design and lead an annual overnight Student Council leadership trip during the summer.
• Design, build out, and implement a comprehensive, vertically-aligned K-12 scope and sequence for Experiential Education.
• Develop a robust, K-12 Competency-Based Learning (CBL) curriculum and assessment model for all ExEd programs.
• Coordinate and design a school-wide "Presentation of Learning" event to showcase Winterim student work and competencies.
• Manage logistics such as equipment packing and repair, food planning and packing, trip administration, medical and emotional oversight, and parent communication.
• Design and implement annual, grade-level class retreats.
• Actively seek and build out new Experiential Education opportunities, both within the classroom and across grade levels.

Job description

At Dawson, we believe that exceptional education is built on the strength, expertise, and dedication of our faculty. 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.

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. Our faculty are not just teachers but mentors and lifelong learners who bring curiosity, empathy, and professionalism to every interaction. They engage in ongoing professional development, apply best practices in education, and contribute to a school culture that values belonging, inquiry, and growth.

Dawson Mission Statement

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.

Why Join Dawson?

• Innovative Teaching Environment : We foster creativity through hands‑on learning and encourage the integration of technology to enhance student experiences.
• Professional Growth : We invest in our educators through workshops, conferences, and collaborative learning opportunities.
• Community Engagement : Become part of a supportive, relationship‑driven environment.
• Work-Life Balance : We prioritize well-being with reasonable class sizes and a collaborative culture.

At Dawson, you will:

• Shape the region’s strongest college-preparatory program through academic excellence and experiential learning.
• Collaborate with talented colleagues in a supportive and respectful environment.
• Engage in meaningful professional development to refine your craft and advance your career.
• Challenge and support students in a learning community that values curiosity, resilience, and purpose.
• Be part of a school that recognizes and invests in the well‑being of its educators through competitive compensation and benefits, along with a culture that nurtures both personal and professional fulfillment.

What You’ll Love About Us

• Retirement: 401(k) plan with employer contribution.
• Healthcare: medical, dental, and vision plans with HSA/FSA options, plus free telehealth services.
• Wellness: access to an employee assistance program, on‑site gym, outdoor swimming pool, and certified athletic trainer. Enjoy free, chef‑prepared lunches and a walkable, secure campus.
• Life Insurance and Voluntary Benefits: group life insurance with additional voluntary coverage options.
• Time‑off: flexible sick time and paid time off.
• Career and Personal Development: support and encouragement for continuous learning and growth, ensuring faculty and staff remain knowledgeable, skilled, and effective in their roles.
• Sustainability: free parking with access to EV charging stations and ECO Pass for RTD.
• Strong Faculty/Staff Culture and Sense of Belonging: welcoming, positive, supportive, and engaged colleagues.

Position Overview

Dawson School is seeking a passionate and experienced Director of Experiential Education to join our dynamic team. This is an exempt, 12‑month, year‑round position.

The Director of Experiential Education (ExEd) provides strategic leadership and K-12 coordination for all experiential education initiatives, the school’s Challenge Course, and other school programs. The Director is responsible for developing a comprehensive, competency‑based K‑12 curriculum for ExEd programming. This individual is instrumental in fostering faculty growth, designing professional development, and integrating experiential learning opportunities across all grade levels and divisions to enhance student learning and engagement. The Director is a member of the school’s Leadership Team and the Committee for Teaching and Learning (CTL).

Duties and Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate the K‑12 Winterim Program, managing all logistical and curricular aspects.
• Direct and coordinate all K‑12 Outdoor Education programs, including class trips and overnight excursions.
• Oversee the operation, safety, and programming of the school’s Challenge Course.
• In collaboration with the Committee for Teaching and Learning (CTL), Division Directors, and the Head of School, design and coordinate the annual beginning‑of‑year Faculty Retreat.
• Design and lead an annual overnight Student Council leader ship trip during the summer.
• Design, build out, and implement a comprehensive, vertically‑aligned K‑12 scope and sequence for Experiential Education.
• Develop a robust, K‑12 Competency‑Based Learning (CBL) curriculum and assessment model for all ExEd programs.
• Coordinate and design a school‑wide "Presentation of Learning" event to showcase Winterim student work and competencies (April 2027).
• Manage logistics such as equipment packing and repair, food planning and packing, trip administration, medical and emotional oversight, and parent communication.
• Design and implement annual, grade‑level class retreats.
• Activ ely seek and build out new Experiential Education opportunities, both within the classroom and across grade levels.

Faculty Development & Collaboration

• Develop faculty skills within the context of experiential education by providing clear feedback, one‑on‑one coaching, and mentorship.
• Design and deliver professional development opportunities for faculty with an ExEd focus.
• Foster and facilitate department team collaboration for interdisciplinary and interdivisional curriculum development.
• Collaborate one‑on‑one with classroom teachers to co‑design and integrate experiential learning methodologies into their existing curriculum.

Administrative, Budget, and Staff Management

• Oversee and approve risk management policies and procedures.
• Participate in regular scenarios to test and improve reactions in emergencies.
• Work productively with parents, administrators, and colleagues when student academic or behavioral concerns arise.
• Lead full‑faculty, divisional, and departmental meetings, as well as other meetings as needed.
• Arrange permits for class trips.
• Make recommendations regarding equipment needs, staff training, and purchase equipment as authorized.
• Manage data reporting for the trip database, leader progress, and certification status.
• Stay abreast of current