Speech & Debate Coach

Overview

TITLE: Speech and Debate Coach

REPORTS TO: Principal/Activities Director

SUPERVISES (if applicable): No Supervision

JOB DEFINITION OR GOAL: The high school speech & debate head coach will be responsible for leading and guiding students in developing their public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking skills through participation in speech and debate competitions. This position offers an exciting opportunity to mentor and inspire students to excel both academically and personally.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive speech & debate program that aligns with the goals and objectives of Providence Hall High School.
• Plan and facilitate regular team meetings, practices, and workshops to support students in honing their public speaking, debate, and research skills for the purpose of coaching students to their full potential.
• Provide constructive feedback and guidance to students on their speeches, arguments, and performances.
• Foster a supportive and inclusive team environment where all students feel valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.
• Uphold high standards of sportsmanship, ethics, and conduct among team members and follow UHSAA guidelines.
• Work collaboratively, effectively, and positively with administration, employees, students, parents/guardians, and the community to promote the speech and debate program and facilitate opportunities for student involvement and growth.
• Manage the team materials for the purpose of making sure all items required for events are accounted for properly within due dates.
• Adhere to all purchasing protocols and guidelines.
• Select appropriate speech & debate events for participation and assist students in preparing for competitions.
• Attend and supervise students at assigned school-sponsored events, to include during travel, ensuring proper student behavior in accordance with school policies and UHSAA rules and guidelines.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions for the purpose of protecting and safeguarding students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (communication, English, education, etc.) preferred.
• Prior experience in competitive speech & debate as a coach, competitor, or judge strongly preferred.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Knowledge of various speech & debate events, formats, and rules (e.g., Lincoln-Douglas debate, public forum debate, original oratory, etc.).
• Understanding of the USHAA Handbook and Rules & Guidelines, and willingness to uphold and enforce them along with the Providence Hall Athletic Department Student/Parent Handbook.
• Strong interpersonal skills for working with students, parents, and school staff.
• Enthusiasm for mentoring and supporting the personal growth of students.
• Ability to manage time effectively and plan organized practices.
• Commitment to upholding the values of sportsmanship, integrity, and academic achievement.
• Excellent levels of creativity and flexibility.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills for coordinating meetings, practices, and competitions.
• Ability to develop and implement comprehensive training programs for athletes.
• Creative analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Professional communication skills including but not limited to: excellent written and verbal communication skills; confident, articulate and professional speaking abilities; empathetic listening; and persuasive speaking.
• Commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for students of all skill levels.
• Strong motivational skills.
• Capacity to perform all the responsibilities listed in this posting.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; occasionally walk and stand; travel from building to other sites. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close…