Debate Coach - Legacy High School / Bismarck High School

About the Role

The Debate Coach is responsible for developing and leading the school's debate program while promoting critical thinking, public speaking, leadership, and academic excellence. The coach provides instruction, supervises students, and ensures compliance with district and NDHSAA/North Dakota Speech and Debate Association policies.

Responsibilities

• Recruit and retain student participants.
• Plan and conduct practices and prepare students for competition.
• Teach debate skills, research techniques, and effective public speaking.
• Supervise students at practices, competitions, and team travel.
• Register teams for tournaments and coordinate schedules with the Activities Director.
• Manage program equipment, budget, and communication with students and parents.
• Promote good sportsmanship, academic achievement, and positive team culture.
• Comply with all district policies and coaching certification requirements.

Requirements

• Knowledge of debate, speech, or forensics preferred.
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and occasional travel.
• Meet all district coaching and background check requirements.

Benefits

Coaches who hold a ND teaching license will have wages reportable to the North Dakota Teacher's Fund for Retirement (TFFR). The employee (coach) will contribute 11.75% of their salary, and the District will contribute 12.75%.

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated annually by the Building Activities Director based on program organization, student development, professionalism, and compliance with district and association expectations.