Duties
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
It is expected that the candidate will present a record of successful experiences that indicate a record of outstanding leadership and performance in the following responsibilities:
Program Leadership and Administration
- Provide strategic leadership for all athletic programs, ensuring alignment with district policies, school goals, and the mission of educational athletics.
- Recruit, hire, supervise, and evaluate all coaching staff, ensuring they demonstrate professionalism, sportsmanship, and instructional competence.
- Promote and support the academic success, health, and safety of student-athletes.
- Maintain oversight of all sports offerings and coordinate with district administration to ensure equity of access, participation, and resources across programs.
- Lead the annual review of athletic programs, including participation data, financials, and competitive outcomes.
Operations and Compliance
- Oversee compliance with Illinois High School Association (IHSA) rules, conference bylaws, and district policies.
- Develop, monitor, and manage the athletic budget, ensuring responsible use of resources, equitable allocation, and accurate financial reporting.
- Coordinate athletic facility scheduling, usage, and maintenance in collaboration with the Director of Buildings & Grounds and Operations staff.
- Supervise game-day operations, including crowd management, security, supervision assignments, and emergency procedures.
- Ensure proper certification, background checks, and professional development for all coaches and athletic staff.
- Oversee transportation arrangements, equipment procurement, and uniform inventory.
- Maintain accurate records related to athlete eligibility, physicals, insurance, and compliance documentation.
Scheduling and Event Management
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Develop and manage game and practice schedules for all athletic teams in coordination with coaches and conference representatives.
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Serve as the school’s representative to athletic conferences and IHSA meetings.
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Coordinate the use of district and community facilities for athletic and special events.
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Plan and oversee major athletic events, including tournaments, playoff games, and award ceremonies.
Student and Community Engagement
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Foster a positive and inclusive climate that supports the physical, emotional, and social development of all student-athletes.
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Collaborate with the Assistant Principal for Student Supports on behavior, attendance, and eligibility matters related to athletics.
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Communicate effectively with students, parents, and the community regarding athletic opportunities, expectations, and achievements.
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Promote good sportsmanship and uphold ethical standards among players, coaches, and spectators.
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Lead or assist with athletic orientation sessions, parent meetings, and community outreach events.
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Manage public relations for athletics, including media releases, website updates, and recognition of student accomplishments.
Equity, Safety, and Student Well-Being
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Ensure equal opportunity and nondiscrimination in athletic participation consistent with Title IX and district policy.
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Collaborate with nurses, trainers, and the student services team to ensure safety protocols for injuries, concussions, and medical emergencies.
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Implement and monitor emergency procedures for athletic events.
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Conduct investigations and follow-up related to sportsmanship, coach conduct, or parent concerns, in collaboration with the Principal and Human Resources as appropriate.
SKILLS TO SUPPORT THESE RESPONSIBILITIES, including but not limited to
- Exceptional Interpersonal & Communication Skills – Strong verbal and written communication abilities to effectively engage with employees, administrators, and stakeholders.
- Reliability & Professionalism – Demonstrates punctuality, regular attendance, and a commitment to professional excellence.
- Technical Proficiency – Intermediate proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office Suite, and familiarity with social media platforms for communication and recruitment purposes.
- Integrity & Confidentiality – Maintains a high level of trustworthiness, ensuring strict confidentiality when handling sensitive employee and district information.
- Strong Work Ethic & Attention to Detail – Delivers high-quality, accurate work efficiently while meeting deadlines and organizational goals.
- Organization & Multitasking – Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Adaptability & Continuous Improvement – Open to learning new systems and approaches to enhance HR processes and district initiatives.
- Additional Qualifications – Other skills and qualifications as determined by the Board and Administration.
Qualifications
CERTIFICATION & QUALIFICATIONS
- Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a General Administrative or Principal Endorsement preferred.
- Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Sports Management, or related field required.
- Minimum of five (5) years of successful teaching and/or coaching experience, preferably at the secondary level.
- Demonstrated experience in athletic administration, budgeting, and event management preferred.
- Completion of IHSA and NIAAA (National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association) professional development courses preferred.
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills required.