Speech and Debate Coach - Part-Time

Position Overview

Menlo School seeks a passionate and skilled Speech and Debate Coach to support our Middle and High School debate program. Level assignment (Varsity, Junior Varsity, or Novice) will be determined based on candidate expertise and program needs.

Reporting to the Assistant Director of the Middle School, this role blends formal instruction, practical strategy, and informal mentorship. Aligning with Menlo’s core values, the coach will guide student debaters through the intricacies of parliamentary debate—fostering both competitive excellence and personal growth—while preparing them for competition and traveling to tournaments throughout the season.

This is a part-time, variable-hour, non-exempt, on-site position. Position is available now.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma required. College level preferred.

• Debate Experience: Successful competitive experience as a high school and/or collegiate debater (college debate experience strongly preferred for advanced levels). Background in Parliamentary debate or related formats (Lincoln-Douglas, Policy, or Public Forum) is ideal.

• Coaching Experience: Prior experience coaching or mentoring high school and/or middle school students is strongly desired.

• Skills: Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal abilities with a reliable, flexible, patient, and detail-oriented approach.

• Availability: Must be available for weekly evening practice and occasional weekend tournament travel/chaperoning.

Key Responsibilities

• Instruction & Coaching:

• Lead and coach weekly team practices (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM, plus additional time post-practice for questions and enrichment). Team practices one day a week.

• Prepare and execute lectures on key topics, including basic economics, foreign policy, philosophy/logic, and technical debate strategies (kritiks, theory, trix).

• Coach students individually and in teams, offering actionable feedback on live or recorded rounds to drive continuous improvement.

• Competition & Judging:

• Judge practice rounds and provide detailed, constructive critiques.

• Chaperone and judge at weekend tournaments regularly each semester (typically 2–3 weekends per month during the active season, with occasional Friday evening events).

• Mentorship & Team Culture:

• Ensure debaters remain engaged and current on relevant political, social, and philosophical issues.

• Cultivate a positive, inclusive team culture grounded in respect, sportsmanship, academic integrity, and collaborative development.

• Administrative & Compliance Duties:

• Communicate regularly with relevant administrators to ensure the club follows all school policies, travel protocols, chaperone guidelines, and safety standards.

• Oversee student permission slips, travel rosters, and tournament logistics in full compliance with Menlo protocols.

We offer:

• Competitive pay

• An exceptional work environment and caring community

• A beautiful campus with exceptional facilities

To be considered for this position, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience through our application portal.

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest and will reach out only to those most closely aligned with the position's needs.

We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this position.

We look forward to hearing from you!

About us:

Menlo School is an independent, coeducational, college-preparatory school for students in grades six through twelve. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley and founded in 1915, the School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is a member of the National and California Associations of Independent Schools.

Menlo is dedicated to providing a joyful, transformative education that empowers students to explore broadly, think critic