Collegiate seeks a dedicated, dynamic, and experienced Director of Speech and Debate for the 2022-23 academic year. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in coaching and/or competitive experience in speech and debate with a strong knowledge of current events, politics, economics, history, and moral philosophy. Additionally, the Director of Speech and Debate must possess an enthusiastic commitment to the importance of building and sustaining a diverse, just, inclusive, and equitable academic environment.

General Summary: 

Under the general direction of the Head of Upper School, the Director of Speech and Debate is responsible for coaching and administrative oversight of the Speech and Debate Program at Collegiate. This position instructs students, facilitates practices, reads and edits cases, manages funds and organizes travel logistics. Working during the week and on weekends, the Director of Speech and Debate is responsible for taking students to roughly two tournaments per month. This is a benefits-eligible position. Additional duties to be assigned dependent upon individual candidate interest, skills, and aptitudes. 

Essential Duties:

• Oversees the speech and debate program;
• Organizes and plans trips to Speech and Debate competitions - approximately two tournaments per month;
• Chaperones competitors on Speech and Debate trips;
• Coaches, teaches, and advises student participants; Manages weekly student practices;
• Manages team registration and other related administrative duties;
• Plans travel logistics;
• Operates and manages Speech and Debate expenditures and budget;
• Judges trainings;
• Adheres to field trip/student travel protocols;
• Facilitate research and construction of cases and speeches;
• Attends faculty meetings, trainings, and professional development as required;
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in education or related field required. Master’s degree or higher preferred. Must possess a minimum of five years of coaching/debate experience, preferably in an independent school environment.

Special Requirements:

• Must be able to complete a background check
• Must possess a valid NYS drivers license

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability and willingness to participate fully in a dynamic day school located in New York City;
• Knowledge of and experience coaching traditional style debate and public speaking;
• Knowledge of current events, politics, economics, history, and moral philosophy;
• Strong research skills;
• Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing;
• Ability to multitask, keep calm under pressure and treat everyone with respect;
• Displays curiosity, a positive attitude, flexibility and a good sense of humor;
• Ability to follow all policies and procedures of the School as written in the employee and parent handbooks.