Assistant Speech & Debate Coach and Teaching Faculty

SUMMARY

Marist School, a co-educational, college-preparatory, Catholic school, seeks an Assistant Speech & Debate Coach for the 2026–27 school year. This position is primarily hired to support the Speech & Debate program; however, the role also includes service as a teaching faculty member in an academic area aligned with the candidate’s degree and professional expertise. This faculty member is hired by the Principal and reports to the Director of Debate, the appropriate Department Chair, and the Assistant Principal/Dean of Academics.

SCOPE OR RESPONSIBILITY

The Assistant Speech & Debate Coach will serve as part of a coaching team to help coordinate a competitive travel program.  This role is specifically responsible for leading the middle school and/or speech programs. Additionally, the Assistant Speech and Debate Coach will be expected to fulfill additional teaching duties that align with their academic background and professional expertise.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS    

• Serve as a coach for speech and debate programs, with a focus on leading the middle school program.
• Collaborate closely with the Director of Debate and coaching staff to plan instruction, tournament preparation, and competitive strategy.
• Assist in coordinating and executing a robust travel schedule, including weekend tournaments and additional opportunities.
• Support curriculum development, practice planning, and evidence preparation.
• Fulfill additional teaching duties within the school that align with academic background and professional experience.
• Instruct students in a manner that is faithful to the Catholic Church and its teachings.
• Foster an inclusive, challenging, and supportive team culture aligned with Marist School’s mission and values.
• Deliver essential content as outlined in the course description and required by the Department Chair.
• Evaluate students frequently using best practices of authentic assessments, both formative and summative.
• Give frequent feedback to students regarding their progress in the course.
• Keep grades up-to-date in the online grading software.
• Differentiate instruction based on student learning styles and needs.
• Provide assistance and intervention for students who would benefit from it.
• Attend to parent concerns and communicate with parents when their child is struggling in a manner that is professional and compassionate.
• Maintain positive rapport with students
• Keep current in areas of pedagogy, skills, and content.
• Set annual professional development goals aimed at advancing the quality of teaching and learning.
• Embrace a spirit of collaboration with colleagues.
• Serve as a student Advisor (grades 9-12) or a Foundations House Leader (grades 7-8).
• Interact professionally with adults and students within the guidelines of the Boundaries Policy.
• Maintain professional standards of dress and grooming.
• Be present in a classroom or designated area during the assigned times from 8:00am-3:30pm as well as at other times outside of the school day as required by the Principal.
• Maintain a safe and orderly environment.
• Record daily student attendance.
• Attend regular meetings, departmental, faculty, etc.
• Be present at school masses and assemblies and supervise students.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college in education or in the primary teaching area is required. A Master’s degree is preferred. Transcripts must be submitted.
• Recommended Experience:
  • Competitive experience in policy debate, public forum, and/or speech (coaching and/or competitive background).
  • Experience working with middle school students is strongly preferred.
  • Willingness to travel and work evenings and weekends during the competitive season.
• A minimum of two (2) references.
• A completed background check.
• A completed drug and illegal substances screen.