District Speech & Debate Program Director

Newark Public Schools; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 74,063 - 129,952; Full time

Job summary

Newark Board of Education seeks a Speech and Debate Coordinator to lead district-wide programs for grades 5–12. You will partner with the Newark Debate Academy and coaches to expand participation, ensure compliance, and drive excellence across local, state, and national tournaments.

The role requires program leadership, data-driven improvement, and collaboration across schools. Strong communication and travel between sites are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent in education or related field.
• New Jersey Department of Education Standard Certificate, CE, CEAS, or Substitute Certificate.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in competitive speech and debate at state/national level.
• Experience leading large-scale academic programs across multiple sites.
• Familiarity with local, state, and national speech/debate organizations.
• Proficiency with tournament management software (Tabroom, Speechwire, Joy of Tournaments).
• Proven ability to manage budgets and communicate with central offices.

Responsibilities

• Provide district-wide leadership for speech and debate programs for grades 5–12.
• Coordinate with schools, NDA, and district offices to improve participation and outcomes.
• Recruit, train, and mentor coaches; organize district-wide PD.
• Develop tournament calendar; manage registration, travel, and lodging for events.
• Manage budgets, track expenditures, and report on participation and outcomes.
• Serve as liaison among schools, NDA, and community partners.

Skills

Strong communication in English

Leadership and program management

Budget management

Collaboration across sites

Data analysis and reporting

Education

Master's degree or equivalent in related field

NJ DOE certificate / CE / CEAS / Substitute Certificate

Tools

Tabroom

Speechwire

Joy of Tournaments

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Data-tracking platforms

Job description

Newark Board of Education seeks a Speech and Debate Coordinator to lead district-wide programs for grades 5–12. You will partner with the Newark Debate Academy and coaches to expand participation, ensure compliance, and drive excellence across local, state, and national tournaments.

The role requires program leadership, data-driven improvement, and collaboration across schools. Strong communication and travel between sites are essential for success.