Head Coach – \"Forensics\" / Speech - ATHLETICS

Richmond High School for the Arts; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 3,000 - 7,000; Full time

Job summary

Richmond High School for the Arts is seeking a passionate Head Coach for Forensics/Speech to lead and mentor students for VHSL competitions this school year. The role requires preparing teams across Public Speaking, Prose/Poetry, Dramatic/Humorous Interpretation, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Original Oratory.

Responsibilities include directing practice sessions, selection and preparation of literature, event coordination, travel planning, and maintaining student records.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in high school/collegiate Forensics, Speech, Debate, Theatre, or Public Speaking preferred.
• Knowledge of VHSL Forensics rules, categories, and competition guidelines.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including afternoon practices and Saturday competitions.
• Must complete all required Richmond Public Schools (RPS) hiring paperwork, background checks, and annual VHSL coaching credentials/clinics.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular practice sessions to train students in vocal delivery, physical poise, speech writing, dramatic interpretation, and critical thinking skills.
• Help students select, edit, and memorize appropriate literary selections or write original speeches in compliance with VHSL rules and regulations.
• Manage team registration, logistics, and supervision for all interscholastic tournaments and VHSL sanctioned meets.
• Maintain accurate student records, track VHSL eligibility, manage equipment/materials, and communicate regularly with student-athletes, families, and the Student Athletic/Activities Director.
• Recruit judges for competitions as required by tournament regulations.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-expectation environment that reflects the artistic and academic standards of Richmond High School for the Arts.

Skills

Forensics experience

VHSL rules

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Flexible hours

Job description

Richmond City Public Schools Richmond High School for the Arts - Richmond, Virginia Open in Google Maps

Head Coach – "Forensics" / Speech - ATHLETICS

Richmond City Public Schools Richmond High School for the Arts - Richmond, Virginia Open in Google Maps

Job Details

Job ID: 5893233

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: Aug 19, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

Job Title: Head Coach - "Forensics" / Speech

Terms of Employment: Temporary

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Work Location: Richmond High School for the Arts

Immediate Supervisor: School Principal and Student Activities Director

Position Overview: Richmond High School for the Arts is seeking a passionate, dedicated, and organized (Forensics) / Speech Head Coach to lead, instruct, and mentor our student competitors for the upcoming school year. The Speech Coach will oversee all aspects of the Speech program, preparing students for local, regional, and VHSL (Virginia High School League) competitions across various categories, including Public Speaking, Prose/Poetry Interpretation, Dramatic/Humorous Interpretation, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Original Oratory.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prior experience in high school/collegiate Forensics, Speech, Debate, Theatre, or Public Speaking preferred.
• Knowledge of VHSL Forensics rules, categories, and competition guidelines.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including afternoon practices and Saturday competitions.
• Must complete all required Richmond Public Schools (RPS) hiring paperwork, background checks, and annual VHSL coaching credentials/clinics.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:

• Student Instruction & Mentorship: Conduct regular practice sessions to train students in vocal delivery, physical poise, speech writing, dramatic interpretation, and critical thinking skills.
• Competition Preparation: Help students select, edit, and memorize appropriate literary selections or write original speeches in compliance with VHSL rules and regulations.
• Event Coordination & Travel: Manage team registration, logistics, and supervision for all interscholastic tournaments and VHSL sanctioned meets. Get this information to the Athletic/Activities Director to schedule travel to these competitions for the team.
• Program Management: Maintain accurate student records, track VHSL eligibility, manage equipment/materials, and communicate regularly with student-athletes, families, and the Student Athletic/Activities Director.
• Judges & Support: Recruit judges for competitions as required by tournament regulations.
• Culture & Integrity: Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-expectation environment that reflects the artistic and academic standards of Richmond High School for the Arts.

JOB STATUS: OPEN

REPORTS TO: Principal and RPS Athletics Coordinator

EOE.

LENGTH OF CONTRACT: Non-term contract, serves from year to year based on the performance assessment and the recommendation of the Principal.

SALARY: Stipend

Position Type: Full-Time