Speech and Debate; Forensics - Head Coach

Speech and Debate (Forensics) – Head Coach

Job Summary: Speech and debate is an all‑school‑year commitment. Practices begin in August and end in early June. The team meets Monday‑Thursday for practice and competes on Fridays and Saturdays from October through February, with district competition in March. The state tournament is in April and national tournaments in May and June. In addition to after‑school coaching, coaches must review debate cases, edit speeches, and read performance pieces outside practice times and provide feedback to students.

• Provide instructional and strategic leadership to the team.
• Teach students theories, skills, and techniques related to speech and debate events.
• Develop and implement practice plans to improve speaking, argumentation, and research skills.
• Recruit and retain students for the team.
• Develop the program’s identity and foster a positive team environment.
• Create the team’s competition schedule in collaboration with the Athletic Director or Activities Coordinator.
• Manage the program’s budget and fundraising efforts.
• Handle administrative tasks such as permission slips, insurance forms, and tournament entries.
• Coordinate student and judge entries for tournaments.
• Make travel arrangements (transportation and lodging).
• Supervise and possibly judge at weekend and evening tournaments.
• Host invitational tournaments.
• Mentor and guide students in academic and personal growth.
• Monitor students’ academic and mental well‑being.
• Maintain effective communication with students, parents, school administration, and community.
• Work with assistant coaches.
• Collaborate with other departments and coaches.
• Ensure adherence to school policies and governing body rules (e.g., MSHSAA).
• Stay informed about rule changes and judging standards.

• Eligibility for Missouri Substitute Certification is required.
• Completion of MSHSAA coach training required.
• Experience as a competitor or coach in speech and debate is preferred.

This stipend position is for the 2026‑27 school year. Compensation ranges from $6,372 to $7,960 based on prior experience. The range will be updated when the 2026‑27 stipend ranges are established.

The Ladue School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, socioeconomic status, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age or any other characteristic protected by law in its programs or activities. Inquiries can be directed to the Title IX coordinator at 9703 Conway Road, St. Louis, MO 63124 (314‑994‑7080).