Speech and Debate Coach (Part-Time)

About BASIS Independent Silicon Valley:
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is a distinguished educational institution known for its rigorous academic programs and dedication to fostering excellence. Our speech and debate program is integral to developing our students’ critical thinking, analytical, and public speaking skills. Each year, we have successfully qualified students for prestigious tournaments such as the Tournament of Champions (TOC), the National Individual Events Tournament of Champions (NIETOC), and the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) Nationals, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to excellence in speech and debate.

Position: Speech and Debate Coach (Part-Time)

Location: San Jose, CA

Overview:
In anticipation of the upcoming academic year, BASIS Independent Silicon Valley seeks passionate and skilled individuals to join our team as part-time Speech and Debate Coaches. Our aim is to expand our coaching staff to include experts not only in Lincoln-Douglas and Public Forum debate but also specialists in various speech disciplines such as Interpretation Events, Platform Events, and Limited Preparation Events. This expansion is key to providing comprehensive support and enhancing our students’ ability to excel in both local and national competitions. Additionally, there is the opportunity for coaching roles to expand as the team grows under the guidance of a passionate and engaging coaching staff. Priority will be given to applicants who can coach in person, as classes take place from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM, though options for online coaching will be considered. We offer flexibility regarding the days of the week for coaching, based on the coach’s availability.

Responsibilities:

• Craft and execute a specialized training program tailored to the needs of students in Lincoln-Douglas, Public Forum debate, Interpretation Events, Platform Events, or Limited Preparation Events.
• Guide students in honing skills pertinent to their event, focusing on areas like argumentation, research, performance, and strategic preparation.
• Provide constructive feedback and personal development strategies to foster student growth and competitive success.
• Promote a team culture of support, ambition, and collective achievement, ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all participants.
• Keep abreast of current trends and standards within the speech and debate community to maintain the program’s competitive edge.
• Manage effective communication with faculty, staff, and parents regarding program goals, student achievements, and progress.
• Oversee logistical preparations for tournament participation, facilitating a smooth and organized experience for students and staff alike.
• Attend and judge at local tournaments, contributing to the broader speech and debate community.
• Chaperone students at local and overnight tournaments, ensuring their safety and fostering a positive team environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication, English, Education, or related field, with advanced degrees preferred.
• Demonstrable success in coaching students in Lincoln-Douglas, Public Forum debate, Interpretation Events, Platform Events, or Limited Preparation Events, with a track record of guiding students to high-level competitions.
• Strong mentoring and communication abilities, underpinned by a passion for nurturing emerging talent.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the capacity to manage a dynamic and demanding speech and debate program.
• Alignment with BASIS Independent Silicon Valley’s educational philosophy and eagerness to contribute to our academic community.
• Availability for flexible working hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate training schedules and competitions. Flexibility regarding the days of the week for coaching is provided to accommodate the coach’s availability.

Benefits:

• An intellectually stimulating work environment.
• The opportunity to significantly influence students’ development and enhance the reputation of our speech and debate team.
• Professional development opportunities within a leading educational institution.

Application Process:
We welcome interested candidates to submit a resume and a comprehensive cover letter. Your cover letter should detail your coaching expertise in Lincoln-Douglas, Public Forum debate, Interpretation Events, Platform Events, or Limited Preparation Events, including your coaching philosophy, relevant experiences, and illustrative examples of leading students to success in these formats.

Applications should be sent to bisvspeech@gmail.com with the subject line “Speech and Debate Coach Application – BASIS Independent Silicon Valley.”

Deadline for Application: May 10th

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.