Alexander Dawson School in Las Vegas

Posted: March 5, 2026

From our very first visit to The Alexander Dawson School, we sensed it was a place unlike any other. What we couldn't have predicted was the profound impact it would have, not just on our daughter, but on our entire family.

The faculty is where Dawson truly shines. Experienced and long-tenured, yes, but never static. These teachers bring curiosity and innovation into their classrooms every day, while taking the time to truly know and champion each student. In a city as fast-moving as Las Vegas, finding that kind of dedicated, personal attention felt like striking gold.

And the experience extends well beyond the classroom. The athletics and after-school programs gave our daughter space to explore her interests and build confidence, whether she was on the tennis court or in the art room, she always felt like she belonged.

But the thing we treasure most? The community. Dawson cultivates something genuinely rare - a place where families, teachers, and staff are all invested in each other. Our daughter didn't just like going to school. She loved it! And that, more than anything, tells you everything you need to know.

Posted: March 5, 2026

Posted: June 30, 2025

Our son recently completed his first year at Dawson, as a third grader. We were grateful to find such a wonderful fit for our son (and family). Danielle (admissions) kick started our warm and cozy feeling, she welcomed our whole family and answered ALL questions presented. We went on several tours, both with and without our son. During these tours we met faculty, staff, and support staff. Security was one of our main areas of concern, and we had fears quickly dismissed after meeting the impressive security team. Our son was also able to attend a day at school shadowing a student and the class. When we picked him up and he had a huge smile on his face we knew Dawson was for us. Dawson does an excellent job of building a community of acceptance with like minded families who align in wanting to have happy kids and overall just raise good people. Our son is no longer defeated when we pick him up, he's happy, engaging & excited to share stories about his love of learning with us. Dawson encourages the children's individual interests and helps the student pursue them. His 3rd grade teacher Ms. Sangikian was amazing... the school knew she would be the perfect fit to build our son's confidence as the new kid. We could go on and on about how the school has changed our son... we just hope everyone can find a perfect fit in Dawson like we have.

Posted: June 30, 2025

Posted: July 10, 2024

The Alexander Dawson school has been absolutely amazing for our daughter, who just finished her first year of Early Childhood. The entire faculty and staff have been absolutely amazing and engaging, and have developed strong personal relationships with every family who comes into the community.

The Early Childhood curriculum is age appropriate, and focuses on developing the confidence and exposure to new concepts, and not just rote memorization of reading or number concepts. Our daughter's social development has been absolutely outstanding to watch over the last year, and that has really been nurtured and cultivated by everyone at the school. Concepts that have been introduced in class are also reinforced at home, and our daughter is pacing very well relative to developmental milestones.

Beyond the learning curriculum, the strong sense of community between Dawson families is also fantastic to see; more than just dropping off a child at a school, Dawson does an excellent job fostering relationships that reinforce positive development between the kids and adults in the school. When selecting a school that sets the foundation for her future educational experience, our family had the choice of attending any school in Las Vegas, and we chose the Dawson school because it is the best for childhood development.

Posted: April 17, 2024

When selecting a preschool for our child and going on tours Dawson stood out due to its beautiful campus and the kindness of the staff (in the beginning). They really sell you. After having our child there we came to realize VERY quickly it is a quick sell and everything they sell you on is not what they practice. You will come home with little to no substance in work from your child. My friends in other schools are coming home with their preschoolers doing writing activities, math activities, worksheets, pre reading. Here there is NONE of that truly NONE. Your days will be filled with going to their garden, pancake day, pj day, hiphop day, dot day, and countless fundraising events. As great and fun as that is there is no structure and it leaves all the children in the preschool there behind. When bringing up any concerns to the E.C director Ms. Jacobson her once kind and nurturing demeanor quickly turns cold and you see a different side to her which in the end had our family come to the conclusion our child will be going elsewhere next year, along with many other families I know there. We have had to get private tutoring to come to our home to catch our child up to speed to be able to go to another private school in Las Vegas due to their lack of accountability, curriculum, and structure. There needs to be a restructuring of curriculum and a restructuring of who is running E.C to hopefully get it back on track because at this time it is a day care not an education.

Posted: April 17, 2024

Posted: March 17, 2024

Sent our child here for two years in preschool before quickly realizing they have little to no curriculum or structure in comparison to other private schools in Las Vegas. They are not teaching the preschoolers to read They lack in problem solving when it comes to bullying. We are currently having to rebuild our childs confidence back up after a teacher who belittled them daily.

Posted: January 5, 2023

We have had over 12 amazing years at Dawson with our two children. Drawn to their individualized approach to learning and their focus on the social and emotional components of education, we couldn't be happier with our decision. We have two very different children with different learning styles and interests and both have developed into passionate learners with diverse problem solving skills. They have learned to lead and work as part of a team and speak with confidence in front of peers and educators, and have grown into engaged members of their respective classes. Watching them develop over the years through that Dawson difference- and especially witnessing the personal and scholastic growth during middle school has been a validating experience. I'm thrilled with the ease in which our eldest has transitioned to the honors program at Gorman and the base of educational confidence he has carried with him.

Posted: January 5, 2023

Posted: May 27, 2022

If I could give no stars I would. I was there from the beginning with my family and the school has turned an absolute abomination. The head of school has no idea how to run an organization let alone a classroom. Complete waste of money and I would say your kids would get a better education at the worst public school in Vegas than here. If looking for a private school the Meadows and Day School are far superior options. They treat their teachers like absolute garbage and the education they give to your kids is below par at best. There is no discipline, responsibility, or accountability. Overall DO NOT RECOMMEND AT ALL. Really consider your options before going there.

Posted: May 27, 2022

Posted: March 29, 2022

Stop looking Dawson is definitely a second home. The entire approach at Dawson is like none other. There is tremors pride in staff & students alike. The moment you drive onto the campus & are greeted each & everyday by security, teachers, staff sets the tone for above average caring environment for your child/children that I doubt you can find anywhere else. This is our first year at Dawson & can hope we're there through the 8th grade. It's a place where they not only help your child grow there are also parent opportunities through their Parent University. The teachers are like none other. They are truly vested in each child & create a fun, respectful learning environment but, not just academics it's a "whole person" approach. They help guide your child to reach their own individual potential. This is not cookie cutter. I can not stress enough how engaged the entire staff is with every child. You have to see it to believe and when you do you'll feel this amazing warm environment. Look no further invest in an education at Dawson.

Posted: March 29, 2022

Posted: February 15, 2022

We were introduced to The Alexander Dawson School through friends' recommendations, and quickly realized that the Early Education program would be a great fit for our energetic, curious and strong-willed 3 year old. We felt our son would be safe and in good hands from the very first day.

In the several months he's been there, we've found his teachers & extracurricular instructors to engage with him in such a respectful, loving and nurturing manner. It is very apparent that they take joy in the kids!

The school is a great start to my toddler's education. Building foundational values (such as empathy, global citizenship, respect) is just as important as creative learning and activities. We've found the school to be communicative and responsive.

We see how much he loves going to school and being with his teachers & friends. Knowing that he's in such good hands is amazing!

Posted: February 15, 2022

Posted: November 4, 2021

My husband and I were considering a move to Nevada and went on a tour of Dawson as an option for our two kids. After we toured the campus we decided to make the move to Las Vegas, mainly because of Dawson. We fell in love with the campus and the school philosophy as well as their core beliefs aligned with what we want for our children. Because of COVID and a mid-school year move, our children had never stepped foot on the campus until their first day. By day two they felt part of the Dawson community as if they'd been there for many years. This is a testament to the teachers they hire and the caring community of children they foster. We have been beyond impressed with their communication and transparency (especially all things COVID related). The teachers are always available for the students and the parents and they truly care about the kids they are teaching. My kids come home with excitement about what they are learning and feel challenged and engaged in their school work. Another added bonus of Dawson is their fun and welcoming parent body. With our middle schooler involved in the amazing Dawson athletics programs we love cheering on Dawson teams with other parents. We wanted our kids to have a love for learning and we have found this at Dawson.

Posted: November 4, 2021

Posted: July 21, 2021

The school has a foundation that has helped my son excel in so many ways. He is socially stronger with encouragement by the faculty. His academics progress is been beyond my expectations for the time he has attended. I cannot wait to see how he develops over the years.

Posted: July 21, 2021

Posted: March 3, 2021

We are grateful to be a part of the Alexander Dawson community, especially over this past year when Dawson took a lead in ensuring students education continued while fostering as much of a sense of normalcy as possible. Our 4th grader has been at the school since Pre-K and continues to grow socially, emotionally, and academically with each passing year.

Dawson, with its inviting campus and creative environment, encourages celebration of the individual student while being committed to a strong core education. Above all else, it's the care and commitment of the teachers and administration that sets Dawson apart. Truly, the Alexander Dawson school is about students and families working together for the best outcomes for our kids. We are thankful and proud that Dawson is an important part of our family!

Posted: March 3, 2021

Posted: December 7, 2020

As soon as we visited the Dawson Campus, we knew it was the right school for both of our children (they are complete opposites). The campus is beautiful, yes, but every single person who works there - teachers, administration, security - they all make it feel like home. The standard of education is fantastic and subjects are super varied - each child is treated like the individual they are. The learning here isn't just academic - it's social-emotional too. The after-school enrichment program has something for everyone. Teachers at Dawson do a wonderful job tailoring the learning to suit each child's needs, encouraging them to do what they love, and they communicate really well with parents. There is a definite emphasis on thinking "outside of the box" and they are incredibly creative whilst helping the kids learn. The atmosphere at the school is super, the staff and children are all so relaxed and happy, it is a truly fun, safe place to learn and approaching our third year, I cannot imagine our children being anywhere else. There are also fantastic education pieces for parents, with some great guest speakers. I even attended a free parenting course last year. At Dawson, it feels like teaching and helping children to grow is truly a vocation, not "just a job". It's like every teacher and member of staff is exactly where they should be, everyone seems to fit and work together in the most fantastic way. We feel extremely supported as a family there and hope our children will remain Dawson students until they both graduate 8th Grade, they are so happy every day. There is a real sense of community at this school. #DawsonDifference

Posted: December 7, 2020

My daughter has been at Dawson since age 3 / pre-school and is now in kindergarten. We are extremely pleased with the school and our daughter has thrived. The school's approach to academics is modern and focuses on learning not just rote memorization but engages children to figure things out and inquire about how things work. And while the school encourages every child to do their best, it does not do so in an overly competitive atmosphere that can be judgmental or stressful. And the school's electives are impressive. They offer a vast array of technology, various art programs, and foreign language, including Mandarin, which I don't think can be found at any other Las Vegas school. Additionally, the school places a high value of developing the entire child, not just academics, but fostering confidence, leadership, conflict resolution and empathy - all necessary for any individual, young or old, to succeed. I couldn't recommend the school more to any family looking to provide a comprehensive academic and character building environment for their child.

Posted: December 7, 2020

Posted: November 9, 2020

Excellent. My children have attended for six and ten years. I wouldn't have them go anywhere else in Las Vegas. We stay in this town so that they can attend Dawson.

Posted: October 29, 2020

When we made the decision to move cross country to Las Vegas, we took the time to visit many of the private schools in the area. As parents, we put a lot of emphasis on a high quality well rounded education that will benefit our kids now and in years to come, so it was important to us to really do our homework on this. It became very clear that Dawson was the right choice, providing the best of everything. The transition for our kids to this new environment was seamless, inviting and they could not be happier. The school does an excellent job combining advanced academics, competitive athletics and the numerous arts programs. The faculty help mold the kids in to the best possible learners, with the ability to differentiate instruction and really foster each kids strengths. Dawson is providing the opportunity for our kids to become even more empathetic people while pushing them to learn and try new things. It is an environment that we believe will best prepare our kids for high school and beyond, pushing them academically, socially and personally. We highly recommend Dawson, as it was one of the best decisions weve made!

Posted: October 29, 2020

Posted: October 26, 2020

My daughter is in her 4th year at Alexander Dawson, and my husband and I are so grateful for the opportunities she's had in both Early Childhood and Lower School. Not only is my daughter a full grade-level above where she should be in core subjects like Literacy, Writing, and Math, she is also several grade levels above her non-Dawson peers when it comes to her social-emotional intelligence, her character, her problem solving and STEAM skills, and her awareness of the core issues of our time. When my daughter started at Dawson, she was a shy introvert. While she's still an introvert, now she loves speaking up in her classes, flourishes as a public speaker and performer, and easily makes friends. Alexander Dawson deeply cares about its students and their families, goes above and beyond providing support (academically and socially-emotionally), and we've made amazing, lifelong friends with families who share or educational and social values. I highly recommend the school.

Posted: October 26, 2020

Posted: October 16, 2020

My son went to another private school for PreK, when it was time to go to Kindergarten, I visited and researched every private and charter school in the Las Vegas area. After our visit to Dawson, I knew it was THE best school and right for my son. The campus which is just the icing on the cake is the most beautiful campus I have ever seen for an EC-8th grade school.

My son must have "overheard" some conversations with my husband over the summer because when I picked him up the 2nd day of school, he said, "mama I LOVE school, you picked good." That made my heart full and happy. We absolutely love everything about Dawson. My son is now in 1st grade and he loves going to school every single day.

Dawson has researched every single aspect of everything you can and cannot imagine for the school. My son is thriving academically, socially, and emotionally. Both sides of our family are in awe of the education that our son is receiving at Dawson and what a great young boy he is!

Even with everything that is going on in the World, my son continues to excel at Dawson, they have thought of everything to take care of their students safety, health, wellbeing and the students continue to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Dawson cares about their students, parents, teachers and faculty. In addition, Dawson offers so many opportunities for parents to learn and grow through events like Parent University, Parent Association, monthly Morning Coffee Chats and community building events for the Dawson families.

I highly recommend Dawson! One of the best decisions I have made in my life for my son who is my World!

Posted: October 16, 2020

Posted: October 15, 2020

When we moved to Las Vegas 3 1/2 years ago, we looked at several of the private schools in the area. After our visit to Dawson, we knew it was the right school for our daughter and our family. We absolutely loved the feeling of Dawson - from the kids in the hallways to the teachers to the administrators. It felt right - it felt like home. Our daughter is in her fourth year at Dawson and she loves school and her teachers. The experience has been even better than we'd hoped for. Through a focus on social, emotional, and academic learning, Dawson nurtures each student's strengths and builds on individual learning styles. Dawson offers multiple opportunities for parents to learn and grow as well, through events like Parent University and monthly Morning Coffee Chats. Dawson students and their families also look forward to the fun community building events held throughout the year. We are happy we chose Dawson and we are proud members of the Dawson Community.

Posted: October 15, 2020

Personally, I feel that generally homework is not particularly useful for academic success. At this point for my daughter, in second grade, homework is manageable.

Posted: October 15, 2020

In our experience, teachers have been engaged, caring, and supportive.

Posted: October 15, 2020

Last year's theme for the year was "courage over comfort" and this year's is "finding your voice". So far this year, my daughter has had multiple exercises, journal assignments, and discussions at school about empathy, understanding and accepting differences, and standing up for yourself and others.

Posted: October 15, 2020

My understanding is there were issues with administration and management of the school in the past. In my experience, over the last few years, administration has worked hard to identify and solve the issues and is committed to making improvements.

Posted: October 15, 2020

Again, in my experience, Dawson seems cognizant that students have different learning styles. They also employ various dynamic learning strategies - kids are not stuck in a desk all day rotely memorizing material.

Posted: October 15, 2020

I think the school's approach to bullying is improving. Again, the current administration seems to be working toward a better environment for everyone. Progress.

Posted: September 18, 2020

This school has a healthy culture of encouragement and growth. It's academically challenging, but teachers have freedom to find ways to make learning fun, and students aren't afraid to make mistakes. The administration stays current on education research and continually makes improvements.

Posted: September 18, 2020

Posted: October 25, 2019

kids are being taught skills designed to succeed for the 21st century and beyond. love this school and its philosophies.

Posted: October 25, 2019

Posted: August 1, 2019

As a graduate of Dawson, I had only the best educational experience. Our teachers cared greatly about our moral development and academic achievement, attending to each of us individually. This is certainly the best elementary school in Las Vegas. Without hesitation I recommend Dawson to any parent who desires a top educational experience for their children.

Posted: August 1, 2019

The teachers are superb when it comes to addressing the special needs of individual students.

Posted: August 1, 2019

The teachers don't just educate, they help build character through moral lessons and counseling.

Posted: August 1, 2019

Teachers work with all students one on one, helping them to overcome their personal problems and excel as academic achievers.

Posted: August 1, 2019

Posted: May 6, 2019

I am very happy with my son's overall education and our family experience. Vegas is tough when it comes to giving your kids a good-to-great education, but with the alternatives, I cannot imagine being anywhere else. I am grateful that the school exists. It is imperfect for sure, but it has heart and soul. Compared with places like Meadows or Day School, that means a lot.

Posted: May 6, 2019

Dawson is a Challenge Success school and while there have been some hiccups in rolling out a reduced homework load (some teachers are still lagging in this department) and better schedule for students (in the middle school), this year I have seen far more consistency in my son's grade. I love the Challenge Success program and hope Dawson continues implementing more aspects of it, like a late start day once a week and other schedule-friendly options.

Posted: May 6, 2019

This is tough. Dawson has loads of great teachers. They also have a few that are not great at all. I wish the school had the courage to stand by the student and family experience and expect excellence from their teaching staff across the board.

Posted: May 6, 2019

This is where the school still needs help. The dean is so-so and there doesn't seem to be any actual "character" program. Or if there is, it's not communicated to parents, which is important.

Posted: May 6, 2019

Lots of change over for a few years but things seem to be settling. I wish the Head of School was more of presence. Right now it seems the Assistant Head of School is the only one who is visible. She is really good, but it all starts with the Head, so it's frustrating sometimes that she's not around.

Posted: May 6, 2019

This goes back to character. My son is convinced that students of donors are treated differently than others (there is one kid who is almost always at the heart of issues in my son's class), and my son would call him a bully. Goes back to the question of a character program at Dawson.

Posted: March 18, 2019

Bullying can be subjective depending on the age and situation. However do the adults in charge know how to instill deep character values that they can then rely on to negotiate subjective situations? The definitive answer is NO.

Posted: March 18, 2019

Dawson is not a bad school when looked at in light of our local options, however it is a serious disappointment for a private school (at any price point). We expected much better from an accredited private school.

Posted: March 18, 2019

They promote good ideas in "age appropriate" amounts of homework, but it is not well implemented. Most things at the school are inconsistent and depend on what teacher you get.

Posted: March 18, 2019

Again it depends on what teacher you get. A few are amazing, but many of the teachers are average. It is hard to tell how interested they are in the kids or the school.

Posted: March 18, 2019

Secular should not mean valueless. Dawson has no authentic character or value based focus coming from the top down, which ultimately impacts the the kids. If you want this as part of your child's education, look at one of the local religious schools.

Posted: March 18, 2019

This is one place where the school really fails. There are no consistent policies or direction. No one seems to be in charge. It is not so much bullying as a failure to understand and care for all children regardless of race, socio-economic status or cultural background. Ten year-old kids decide how to treat each other, which you can imagine doesn't usually end well. Differences are seen as specimens, not as celebrations. Basically the board and leadership is checked out, super homogenous and does not live by the stated vision of the school.

Posted: March 18, 2019

Dawson does take the time to make assignments more manageable for different types of learners.

Posted: March 14, 2019

Dawson is an outstanding academic environment! The curriculum focuses on project based learning is adaptable to all kinds of learners.

Posted: March 14, 2019

The homework reinforced what is learned in class and provides structure and responsibility. Homework is not punitive and is age appropriate.

Posted: March 14, 2019

The teachers at Dawson offer individualized aupport for all kinds of learners

Posted: March 14, 2019

Social Emotional learning at the school is a focus and allows students to develop a sense of self and also an awareness of those around them

Posted: March 14, 2019

The new head of school Carola Wittman arrived at Dawson with extensive leadership experience and has put together a remarkable, mission-centered team

Posted: March 14, 2019

My child was fully supported with her learning difference - so much so that she does not even realize the help she received was because of any deficit. In fact she is now above grade level in her schoolwork thanks to the additional resources Dawson was able to provide.

Posted: March 14, 2019

Social emotional learning helps with this, and kids learn to address issues with the help of teachers. There are also counselors available to help as well

Posted: March 14, 2019

I rate our experience with this school as top notch. We have been extremely satisfied with the level of education and the supportive, caring community in which our daughter has been able to grow and thrive.

Posted: March 14, 2019

As a Challenge Success school, a balance between homework, extra activities and family life is encouraged. Students are given an appropriate level of homework that will allow them to remain well balanced outside of school.

Posted: March 14, 2019

This is our daughter's 7th year at Alexander Dawson. Each year she's been fortunate to have intelligent and caring teachers who seem excited to be there and eager to teach.

Posted: March 14, 2019

In our experience, respect and compassion have always been encouraged. There are school counselors in each school level. Student-led initiatives such as the buddy bench program or affinity groups have also been established. Diversity is supported and encouraged through CAFE Night (cultural awareness), country studies and community share programs.

Posted: March 14, 2019

This school has learning specialists and teacher support staff that are there to assist with learning differences, challenge students who excel in certain subjects or need some extra help during the day.

Posted: March 14, 2019

In our experience, the school effectively confronts and deals with bullying by engaging the students first and then the parents when appropriate.

Posted: March 13, 2018

We are a Dawson family and I read the negative reviews and I don't recognize a majority of the complaints. We love this school. And given our experience at two other schools in Las Vegas, we can attest to the fact that NO SCHOOL is anywhere close to perfect in this city. This is a tough place for even semi-decent education. However, since finding and enrolling our children at The Alexander Dawson School almost four years ago, I can tell you that we are relieved to have found a school that really seems focused on what works best for kids. Dawson recently became a Challenge Success school (read about it! This is an incredible designation challengesuccess.org), which is based on some of the best research out there from Stanford University's School of Education. Homework loads have decreased in the years we've been there, which in today's overscheduled world is a great thing, and the experience from grade to grade is much smoother. I will acknowledge the challenges: leadership remains an issue. The current head seems a bit unapproachable and not too engaged, and they've had way too much turnover at the top. Other leaders are very visible and approachable though and make up for what the head lacks. Citizenship seems to be evolving. Dawson's biggest issue here is lack of consistent discipline policy and procedures (we've had issues in the past with other boys), but I do appreciate that they work with kids rather than go right to punishment. I get that that outlook doesn't work well with a lot of parents. But in every situation there's always much more complexity and Dawson tries to work through issues which, as parents of a boy who tends to be very sensitive, we like because social interactions as adults are never cut and dry. And big newsflash: there are very rich kids at all the private schools in town. Dawson is no different in that way. We are not rich, yet at Dawson we have never felt that we needed to have lots of money to do what's best for our kids or for them to get the attention they need and deserve from their teachers. It has never been an issue, whereas this was at the other school where we had our kids. Do we hang out with the wealthy families? Not really, but social climbing is not our goal. Our goal is to give our kids the best education possible and at Dawson, we know we're doing the best we can for our kids. That's what is important to us.

Posted: November 19, 2017

Bullying is tolerated. Micro-aggression is tolerated. Disrespectful behavior is tolerated. My child became aggressive after having to defend himself on a daily basis.

Posted: November 19, 2017

Leadership is the source of their problem. They cater to the wealthy. Discipline is non-existent. The pretty facade is deceiving.

Posted: November 19, 2017

The school philosophy is weak. The expectation is low. The academic standard is low. My child walked away at a lower level than he had upon entering the school. I brought it up to his teacher, and she was satisfied that he was on grade level. He'd entered 2 grade levels above.

Posted: November 19, 2017

We had a terrible experience at this school. We expected so much more. I can't believe how poorly they handle issues such as discipline and bullying. I hope that they get a serious program in place before they end up with a huge problem on their hands. My child was bullied. They took it lightly. We spent the whole summer trying to overcome the damage received on their watch. I would not recommend this school.

Posted: November 17, 2017

During our parent interview, we were told that "we leave the children to handle social matters" and that it was not uncommon as children progress through the school, those who are socially immature often find themselves "distanced" because they do not offer "an emotionally rewarding experience" to more mature peers and that unfortunately, that natural isolation is incorrectly reported as bullying. Ummm...I was shocked to hear this, and I can plainly see why bullying was noted in several recent reviews as a problem (I was not aware of this prior to the tour).

Posted: July 26, 2017

This school is absolutely terrible. Until they get their act together, please avoid.

Posted: July 26, 2017

Posted: January 9, 2017

Children of the wealthiest parents are never disciplined, adminstration says you are not even allowed to use the word "bully."

Posted: January 9, 2017

If your child is different in any way, look elsewhere.

Posted: January 9, 2017

The teachers and administration pander to the richest children in the school (or those whose parents appear the richest / donate the most money). Other parents can be downright rude. If you can't afford to vacation in the Hamptons (as one little girl announced she liked to do during a class performance), you and your child won't fit in. The teachers will blame you if your child is picked on (since they aren't allowed to discipline children for bullying). Some of the teachers really do try, but the overall approach, teacher and administrator turnover, and all around disorganization make it impossible. It's all about "show" - no real heart, substance, or caring about the kids. It's too bad, we pulled our kids out, and know many others who have, too. We had family members who attended in the 90's and it was a completely different place back then. Just too bad what a lack of good administration (especially in Early Childhood and Middle School) can do.

Posted: June 10, 2016

Teachers do their best, but the lack of support and inconsistent approach from the administration renders much of their efforts useless. When no discipline is permitted, students quickly learn they don;'t have to respect their teachers and that limits how effective teachers can be.

Posted: June 10, 2016

There are much bigger issues at this school. It certainly isn't academically rigorous in most ways.

Posted: June 10, 2016

There is no discipline at this school. They are too concerned about losing kids to other area schools. Therefore, no way students can develop these traits here.

Posted: June 10, 2016

This school is poorly run and the administration is so incompetent it overshadows any positives that exist. The school is so afraid of losing students that it won't allow any discipline. Academics, discipline and consistency are sacrificed for revenue. The fact that this is the most expensive school in Vegas makes it even more of a joke. The only reason this place stays in business is because parents want to keep their kids out of the public schools, or they have more money than sense....

Posted: August 19, 2015

We love this school we have two children here and could not be happier. I think that the teachers really care about the students and they know how to make learning fun! It's been an awesome experience my kids are actually excited to go to school. Thanks for all your great work!

Posted: August 19, 2015

Posted: June 3, 2015

Echoing the perspectives expressed in previous reviews, our experience has also been that this school's culture is distinctively not inclusive, and that culture also pervades student relations in the classroom. This school is heavily branded in the Vegas area as "the best", and it has some fine attributes: great security and facilities, some outstanding teachers, and a breadth of enrichment programs. But we didn't feel like we were experiencing "the best" of educational offerings in the area when we saw bullying in the classrooms, and a high staff and faculty turnover rate.

Posted: May 21, 2015

Our family has had a great experience with the talented, intelligent teachers who go above and beyond every day. They are truly what make the school so wonderful. Their creative curriculum and engaging class activities make our children excited to go to school. However, it seems the current administration is driving down morale, and many of our children's favorite teachers are leaving or seem stressed. To their credit, these teachers don't ever quit on the kids, despite frustrations with ever-changing mandates. The Dawson faculty is simply the best.

Posted: May 20, 2015

Posted: November 16, 2014

We are new to Dawson this year and I am troubled by the previous review. Contrary to their experience, we have two middle school students and we have never been part of a school that is as accepting and supportive of them. From the caring and talented teachers to leaders that articulate the 'how and what' sets Dawson apart, it has been a great transition to a great community for our family. I feel the school cares about the overall development of my children, beyond their academic achievement. They are able to tap into their interests and passions and my children can't wait to get to Dawson, every morning. We couldn't ask for more!

Posted: October 12, 2014

We came to Dawson thinking it was an open and welcoming environment for our child. Instead, we found a school that heavily favors some families above others and disregards the I put of their capable teachers. What the teachers try to build here is destroyed by the administration's obsession with the next big donor, and the children suffer as a result.

Posted: July 2, 2014

My son was accepted into the summer college-bound program here, based on exceptional grades, counselor recommendation, and outstanding citizenship. After three days he was informed that he was being dropped due to them not being willing to work with his Dyspraxia (a primarily handwriting disability which they knew he had before accepting him). They didn't even allow him back to say good-bye to the friends he had met, and they were demeaning and humiliating when they informed me he was being 'released'. Students who don't fit into the Dawson mold are not welcome here.

Posted: September 16, 2013

I attended the Alexander Dawson School for three years and I can honestly say it was one of the greatest decisions my parents and I ever made. Since 'graduating', I now attend one of the top 5 boarding schools in the country. If it hadn't been for Dawson, I would not be where I am today--applying to the Ivy Leagues and preparing for the real world. The teachers at Dawson have a genuine interest in the students and the curriculum is far more advanced. I recall getting A++ at my public school and feeling bored with the material, but Dawson challenged me. It helped me grow as a writer, athlete, and thespian. Besides juggling college visits and APs, I am a cross country runner, a writer in the school paper, a member of the student council, and an actress. Dawson challenging me has helped me succeed; it helped me receive scholarships to 8 of the best schools in America and it has helped me become the person I am today. True, I am still growing, but Dawson has been the foundation for all that I've done and for that I am thankful. If you can afford it (or manage to receive a scholarship), consider sending your child here. I can assure you you and your son/daughter will not regret it.

Posted: February 16, 2013

We had great expectations of Dawson, and were excited when my son started to attend the lower school. We could not have been more disappointed. It is not concerned with the "whole student" as they claim; nor is it a more progressive school than their peers in Las Vegas. Ask parents in the ecec and lower school and you'll hear a chorus of complaints about the school - focus on 'checking boxes' in the curiculum vs. actually helping kids to learn, rush to judgements about young children, tolerance of behavior such as bullying as long as they like the parents, teachers with no prior lower school or early childhood experience. Every parent I know there wishes they could leave, but unfortunately most of them are at Dawson because they also didn't like the alternatives. But, at least the alternatives tell you clearly what they believe in, vs. Dawson which pretends it is something it is not - a more open minded school focused on the whole student.

Posted: April 23, 2012

I am a grateful grandparent of a Dawson middle schooler. Coming from a failing public school after fourth grade, I have seen my granddaughter blossom in confidence, character and academic mastery. The transformative approach and nurturing atmosphere, combined with high expectations have produced more than her parents and I could have imagined. Next year she will graduate, prepared to take on our wonderful and complex world.

Posted: April 11, 2012

It has been interesting, to say the least to read some of these comments. I wonder sometimes what the motivation might be. My experiences have been enormously positive. My daughter came from the CCSD 4 years ago to Dawson. She came in to Dawson as a timid student and will graduate this year as a confident, kind and caring girl. She wants to continue learning and has a clear-cut vision for her future that has been fostered by caring, challenging teachers! The students at Dawson RISE to the challenge as opposed to "dumbing down" for students who need much more help. The students who need extra help at Dawson, get the help they need from wonderful teachers and support staff. I will be FOREVER GRATEFUL to the Alexander Dawson School!

Posted: March 20, 2012

I taught at AD several years ago. The admin. that I worked with were concerned for the students best interests, but seemed to be pawns for the wealthiest of parents. The school encouraged teachers to deliver a unique education, and when I was there, there were some really great instructors delivering great content. I do feel that a few parents with money and clout had undue influence ... If your child attends AD, just be aware pared to deal with your child's classmate's parents! If you are middle class or old money, it would be better to stay away from the nouveau riche class.

Posted: March 9, 2012

There have been many administration changes(Headmaster, Head of Middle School) which have affected staff morale. We spent 12 years there and experienced these changes. Lower School is still doing an exeptional job. Middle school needs a strong leader who knows about middle school curriculum. Hopefully the new 2011-12 Head of Middle School Head can provide leadership and curriculum knowledge. Sadly, many excellent Middle School teachers left due to fustration w/ the administration; some current Middle School teachers are arrogant and will cater to "parents who donate money to the school". Science and Math program are strong, but Middle School English teachers need to cooperate w/ one another. Pricey tuition; older students & parents can be "snobs" to those who receive financial need scholarship.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Palms at Silverstone Ranch	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Las Vegas	NV	13.4 mi
2	Aliante	Neighborhood/Subdivision	North Las Vegas	NV	14 mi
3	Sunrise Manor	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Las Vegas	NV	16.6 mi

#	Name	City	State	Overall Rating	Distance
1	Jones & Lake Mead	Las Vegas	NV		7.6 mi
2	Hollywood Rec Center	Sunrise Manor	NV		17.3 mi

Base	Distance
Nellis AFB	17.9 mi.
Creech AFB	36.9 mi.

Alexander Dawson School

Las Vegas, NV 89135

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Alexander Dawson School

Las Vegas, NV 89135

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