Debate Team Advisor – High School

Policies

Debate Team Advisor - High School

Debate Team Advisor – High School

Under the direction of the High School Principal, the responsibility of the High School Debate Team Advisor is to oversee, guide, and direct the Debate Team members in the activities they participate in and the meetings that are held in conjunction with the R.I. Forensics League.  To organize and supervise all aspects of administration, operations and coaching of the competitive debate team.

Overall Responsibilities

There are a wide variety of responsibilities which come with being the Debate Team Advisor. The list below is not inclusive of all responsibilities, but is a general overview of expectations for the position. The majority of student activities require planning time and/or supervision beyond the school day, the stipend for the Advisor is in place for this reason. No additional pay and/or compensations days will be granted for work done in the capacity of the Advisor. The Advisor must follow all school district policies and regulations and must enforce the rules of Middletown Policies and Procedures, as well as, Rhode Island General Law.

Duties and Responsibilities

·         Supervise the four to six Saturday competitions throughout the year.

·         Provide leadership in basic parliamentary procedures.

·         Design and conduct recruitment to attract new speech and debate team members.

·         Sponsor an active chapter in the R.I. Forensic League.

·         Selecting, organizing, and publishing a schedule of competition.  This involves responding to or soliciting invitations to tournaments, designation of a competition calendar, and completion of appropriate documentation.

·         Provide individual and group instruction in preparation for tournament competitions.  (Novice and varsity level).

·         Maintain performance requirements, enforces academic requirements, and verified each student’s eligibility to participate in debate activities.

·         Maintain the integrity and reputation of Middletown High School in the forensic community by teaching and modeling integrity, commitment, and diligence.

·         Administer and operate the Middletown High School invitational tournament (if one is scheduled).

·         Travel as needed to supervise and judge at tournaments.

·         Organize and implement debate trips in accordance with district policy and regulations as well as student interest and ability.

·         Arrange transportation, lodging, and meals for tournaments (if needed).

·         Organize and conduct auditions for the debate tournaments when appropriate; informs administration and participants of final selections.

·         Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for individual student differences.

·         Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.

·         Schedule, coordinate, and supervise all fundraising projects and follow School Committee Fundraising Policies.

·         Maintain accurate financial records regarding fundraising activities, and deposit fundraising monies and receipts with Student Activities Coordinator and Business Manager.

·         Supervise and assist students effectively.

·         Promote good public relations by personal appearance, attitude, and conversation.

·         Interact with Superintendent and/or School Committee and present information as requested.

·         Interact in a positive manner with staff, students, and parents.

·         Serve as a role model for students.

·         Counsel students on matters concerning school procedures, rules, and regulations.

·         Respond to routine questions and requests in an appropriate manner.

·         Make contacts with the public with tact and diplomacy.

·         Maintain respect at all times for confidential information, e.g., student records, etc.

·         Ensure safety of students.

·         Comply with Federal and State laws, R.I. Department of Education rules, and School Committee policies.

·         Guide officers and members with planning the year’s meetings and activities.

·         Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.

·         Provide good organizational/leadership skills.

·         Work with other school clubs and organizations in calendar scheduling.

·         Meet established deadlines.

·         Communicate with parents about events.

·         Perform other duties as assigned by the High School Principal or designee.

Qualifications

·         Valid R.I. Teaching Certification (Preferred).

·         Documentation of a clear BCI/FBI report.

·         Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate school events.

·         Work effectively with large and small groups.

·         Basic first aid/CPR (Preferred).

·         Effective, active listening skills.

·         Organizational and problem solving skills.

·         Ability to communicate ideas and directions clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.

·         Effective, active listening skills.

·         Organizational and problem-solving skills.

·         Strong communication, public relations, and interpersonal skills.

·         Ability to write reports and correspondence consistent with the duties of this position.

·         Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback.

·         Ability to read, analyze, and interpret information.

·         Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions, inquiries, and and/or complaints.

·         Display courtesy, tact, and respect when dealing with others.

·         Promote a harassment-free environment.

·         Establish and maintain effective working relationships; demonstrates a commitment to teamwork.

·         Ability to react well under pressure, handle and balance multiple demands at one time, work with frequent interruptions, and perform duties and tasks at expected levels of professionalism.

·         Such alternatives to the above qualifications as Superintendent and/or School Committee may find appropriate.

First Reading - October 20, 2011

Second Reading and Approval - November 17, 2011