Debate Coach Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Description

The Overlake School is seeking qualified applicants for the position of US Assistant Speech and Debate Coach for the 2026-2027 school year. 

Picture yourself working on 75 acres of nature, just minutes from Downtown Redmond. Our community is united by a shared sense of purpose, a love of learning, and an unwavering belief in the power of people. 

We value tradition and forward-thinking in equal measure. We laugh together, learn together, and lead with compassion.

The Details:

Compensation: Total wage of $20,000, distributed in equal monthly payments across 10 months (September 2026 through June 2027).

Work Hours and Location: Part-time role providing individual and group instruction in preparation for tournament competition between 3:30pm and 5:30 pm two to three days a week at The Overlake School. Tuesday and Thursday practice is in person and online Saturday until the first competition. There are 14 weekend competitions locally and potentially out of state if competitions advance to the national level.

The Process: Please include a cover letter, this position will remain open until filled. 

Duties of the Assistant Coach: 

• Support the Head Coach in scheduling, organizing, and publishing a schedule of competitions
• Work collaboratively with MS Debate to develop universal philosophy for the program
• Support the Head Coach in organizing and implementing debate trips in accordance with school policies and regulations as well as student interest and ability
• Support the Head Coach with administrative duties related to attending tournaments (e.g. entries, school required permission forms, arranging transportation, ensuring adequate parent volunteer judges)
• Support the Head Coach in working with the Business Office 
• Communicate effectively with parents to convey philosophy of program to manage the following logistics: practice and tournament schedule, transportation, bill backs, etc.
• Provide individual and group instruction in preparation for tournament competition between 3:30 and 5:30 pm two to three days a week at The Overlake School or other time that works for the coach / student
• T/Th practice is in person and online on Sat until the first competition
• Establish performance requirements, enforce academic requirements, and verify each student's eligibility to participate in forensic/debate activities
• Maintain the integrity and reputation of The Overlake School by complying with the school's mission statement and employee handbook 
• Work with the coach and team captain(s) to set individual and team goals and ensure goals are being met by the team
• Ensure the safety of students by adhering to both team and general school rules and policies while on Overlake premises and while traveling

 Responsibilities Include:

• Managing competition sign-up
• Complete one-day preseason coaches training on campus
• Plan and deliver all team practices and competitions in collaboration w/ Student Leaders 
• Provide basic medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries (Training provided by The Overlake School)
• Ability to execute emergency plan for campus facilities
• Meet department coaching standards and season planning expectations
• Driving small bus to transport students to competitions

Requirements

• Be positive, caring, and supportive of the school's mission statement and be dedicated to the overall development of students
• Work collaboratively with club leaders and members
• Brings perspectives, identities and skills that reflect, affirm and enrich the diversity of the Overlake community
• Be able to pass a criminal background check and have an acceptable driving record

Physical and Special Requirements

• Ability to attend evening practices and up to 14 weekends for competitions are required
• Ability to view and operate a computer frequently and consistently
• Ability to move physically throughout campus, and at external locations where competitions are held

Equal Employment Opportunity

At The Overlake School, we strive to ensure that every employee feels welcomed and valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. From our hiring practices, performance reviews, raise decisions, and opportunities for promotions, The Overlake School follows consistent and fair practices to ensure all employees and potential employees have an equal opportunity for employment and advancement based on merit, and are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or on any other legally protected basis in the administration of its educational policies, financial aid, employment, and other school-administered programs. Our Human Resources department works with employees to make reasonable accommodations for those that require assistance in being able to participate in the interview process or meet the requirements of their position.

Background Check Policy

The Overlake School conducts background checks for employees after the conditional offer of employment is accepted, in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Candidates will be asked to authorize these screenings and results will be reviewed by a designated HR representative. The Overlake School reserves the right to modify this policy at any time without notice.

Work Authorization Policy

This role is contingent upon the Employee's ability to lawfully work in the United States in a manner compatible with the structure, schedule, and duration of the position. Any employment authorization that requires institutional agreements, academic-credit participation, or third-party oversight is subject to the School's review and written approval.