Job Description

25-26 - Memorial - Forensics Coach (Extra Duty), 0.5 FTE

Memorial High

Memorial High

Employment Type: Exempt

Purpose of Position:

Memorial High School is seeking a passionate and dedicated Forensics Coach. The Forensics Coach will be responsible for developing a competitive and inclusive program that fosters critical thinking, public speaking skills, research abilities, and sportsmanship among students. This position involves guiding students through various speech and debate events, preparing them for competitions, and promoting a positive and supportive team environment.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

N/A

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Program Development:

+ Design and implement a comprehensive forensics program that aligns with school and district goals.
+ Develop curriculum and practice plans for various speech, including but not limited to: Original Oratory, Extemporaneous Speaking, Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation, and Duo Interpretation.
+ Identify and recruit students interested in forensics, ensuring an inclusive and diverse team.

Coaching and Mentoring:

+ Provide expert instruction and coaching to students in all aspects of speech and debate, including research, argumentation, persuasive speaking, performance, and ethical competition practices.
+ Conduct regular practices, workshops, and individualized coaching sessions.
+ Help students select appropriate events and topics, and guide them in developing their speeches and cases.
+ Foster a positive team culture that emphasizes collaboration, mutual respect, and personal growth.

Competition Management:

+ Organize and oversee participation in local, regional, and state forensics tournaments.
+ Manage logistics for competitions, including registration, travel arrangements, and supervision of students.
+ Serve as a judge at tournaments when required or arrange for qualified judges.
+ Track student progress and performance, providing constructive feedback and support.

Administrative Duties:

+ Manage the forensics budget, including purchasing supplies and resources.
+ Maintain accurate records of student participation, achievements, and attendance.
+ Communicate effectively with students, parents, school administration, and district personnel regarding team activities, schedules, and policies.
+ Adhere to all school, district, and state association rules and regulations regarding forensics competitions.

Community Engagement:

+ Promote the forensics program within the school and local community.
+ Organize fundraising activities to support team expenses.
+ Collaborate with other school departments and clubs to enhance student involvement and opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required to Perform Essential Job Functions:

Demonstrated ability to establish relationships at all levels of the organization Follow principles and practices that promote and advance anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion

Required Qualifications:

Previous experience coaching or participating in high school or collegiate speech and debate programs is highly desirable. Strong understanding of various forensics events, rules, and judging criteria. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to motivate and inspire high school students. Knowledge of current trends and best practices in speech and debate education. Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, for practices and competitions. CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

License Requirements:

N/A

Physical Requirements:

Ability to work under generally safe and comfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors is minimal and poses little to no risk of injury. This position requires the ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and may involve walking, sitting, stooping or reaching. Manual dexterity is necessary for completing general tasks while operating office equipment. This position may require being stationary for extended periods of time. Ability to perform work in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments throughout the year, including in inclement weather, spaces without air conditioning, and areas where temperatures may be uncomfortable or fluctuate rapidly.

Working Conditions:

Primarily indoors, with occasional travel for competitions. Requires standing, walking, and occasional lifting of materials. May involve working extended hours during competition season. Position requires working evenings, nights, and some weekends. Work requires travel to different locations within the district and to off-site meetings. School-based positions are required to be in-person unless otherwise directed by the building principal.
Disclaimer: This position description is subject to change at any time. The above job description does not limit the duties and responsibilities listed above as they are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. Employees in this position may be required to perform additional job-related tasks as directed by the supervisor.

The Madison Metropolitan School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We continue to seek a diverse and talented workforce. We encourage veterans, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities to apply. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the District will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.