Upper School Debate Coach

THE SPENCE SCHOOL

UPPER SCHOOL DEBATE COACH

Part-time, to begin Fall 2026

Overview:

The Spence School seeks a Debate Coach for the Upper School Debate Team, which includes students who participate in Novice, JV, and Varsity Public Forum debate.

Responsibilities:

• Judge PF on the weekends of major tournaments (usually two per semester, and includes overnight travel outside of the NYC area to Boston, New Haven, Philadelphia, or Princeton)
• Hold weekly one-hour sessions either in person or on Zoom to prepare student participants for debate competitions by assisting with debate strategy and coaching progressive argumentation at a basic level
• Hours should be flexible; this may take place after school or on the weekends
• Facilitate research and construction of cases and speeches
• Communicate regularly with the faculty advisor of the Debate Team and the Upper School Dean of Students

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Is ready to joyfully engage high school students
• Has experience with curriculum and competition in Public Forum debate at the Varsity level
• Experience with Speech is beneficial but not required
• Experience working with high-school students in a mentoring, coaching, or teaching capacity
• Demonstrates cultural competency and skills engaging with and learning from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences
• Demonstrates flexibility, patience, maturity, and good judgment
• Demonstrates professional boundaries when working with students
• Is responsible and punctual
• Possess strong writing, verbal, and organizational skills

Spence is committed to an equitable program and a diverse faculty and student body. We therefore actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Salary range: $5,000-$12,000 based on weekly time commitment