Academic Decathlon Advisor – High School

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Academic Decathlon Advisor - High School

Academic Decathlon Advisor – High School

Under the direction of the High School Principal, the responsibility of the Academic Decathlon Advisor is to oversee, guide, and direct the Academic Decathlon members in the activities they participate in and the meetings that are held in conjunction with the U.S. Academic Decathlon Competition in collaboration with the R.I. Academic Decathlon.  To organize and supervise all aspects of administration, operations and coaching of the competitive Academic Decathlon.

Overall Responsibilities

There are a wide variety of responsibilities which come with being the Academic Decathlon 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

·         Foster scholastic growth, a spirit of academic competition and a sense of worth and confidence with Academic Decathlon members.

·         Supervise competitions.  This might include additional weeks if the team competes on a National level.

·         Research the Academic Decathlon season theme.

·         Design and conduct recruitment to attract new Academic Decathlon team members.

·         Hold appropriate meetings with students to prepare them for competition.

·         Select, organize, and publish a schedule of competition.

·         Provide individual and group instruction in preparation for competitions.

·         Maintain performance requirements, enforce academic requirements, and verify each student’s eligibility to participate in Academic Decathlon.

·         Know and ensure the implementation of established rules and procedures of Academic Decathlon.

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

·         Assist Administration in the operation of Middletown High School tournament (if one is scheduled).

·         Travel as needed to supervise and judge at tournaments.

·         Organize and implement Academic Decathlon 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 tryouts for the Academic Decathlon competitions when appropriate; inform 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.

·         Ability to 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.

·         Assist 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.

·         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.

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

·         Promotes a harassment-free environment.

·         Establishes and maintains 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 - November 17, 2011

Second Reading and Approval – December 15, 2011