New Roads School provides an inspired college preparatory program from which an authentically diverse student population, mirroring the rich diversity of Los Angeles, develops a personal dedication to learning, a respect for independent thinking, an expanding curiosity about the world and its people, and a commitment to the common good. We are a co-educational, non-denominational K-12 school of approximately 550 students. We pride ourselves on our small class sizes, passionate educators, and dedication to relational, embodied learning.   

The Speech and Debate teacher is charged with leading, managing, and coordinating the Speech and Debate program in alignment with the school's Mission, Statement of Philosophy, and Commitments. Foundational to the Statement of Philosophy, the Speech and Debate Program provides tools to participate intellectually, socially, politically, and morally, “to read well and write clearly,” “to reason and to question thoughtfully, soundly, critically, and ethically,” “to invite and seek to understand contradictory and complementary perspectives,” and “to listen and and understand empathically.” The Speech and Debate program offers a diverse group of young people an intellectually rigorous space where they can explore social and political issues through the refinement of their rhetorical, speaking, thinking, research, and listening skills. Through the incorporation and employment of these tools in the US program and by students, the Speech and Debate Program drives the generative intellectual culture of New Roads inside and outside of the classroom and prepares our young people to be powerfully compassionate advocates.

The Speech and Debate Teacher will lead and manage Speech and Debate practices, teachers, assistant coaches, and community volunteers so that students will be best prepared to compete at the local, state, and national levels. The Speech and Debate Teacher will cultivate the program’s commitment to building on its state and national reputation, competitive excellence, authentic collaboration, public speaking, research skills, student leadership and choice, and diversifying the activity.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• An understanding of, and commitment to, New Roads’ philosophy and approach to education.
• A firm commitment to access, equity, and inclusion and working with a diverse community.
• Ability to teach a diverse range of learners Speech & Debate classes, that cover a variety of techniques including Lincoln-Douglas, Congress Legislation, Extemp, Big Questions, Policy and Public Forum. 
• Thorough knowledge of subject matter, including use of correct vocabulary, effectiveness in teaching, and how students develop critical thinking and speaking skills.
• Build on the Competitiveness of High School Speech & Debate Program, with the aim of continuing to establish its reputation for excellence on local, state, and national level.
• Integrate Speech & Debate into Town Halls and Student Life.
• US Speech & Debate Program Administration (with US Admin support) including, but not limited to, manage program budget, coordinate and manage competition registration and travel, host tournaments, sponsor an active chapter of the NSDA, build relationships with peer schools, recruit and train tournament judges, participate in fundraising for the program.   
• Experience and interest in differentiated instruction, project-based, constructivist approach to teaching and learning, as well as portfolio, authentic, and performance assessment.
• Excellent organization, communication and writing skills.
• Excellent classroom management skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Provide students with opportunities and support in the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills, the exploration of ideas, and the development of leadership qualities.
• Maintain and communicate high expectations and boundaries in a consistently kind, clear and respectful manner.
• Maintain a climate of trust and mutual respect, which encourages students to risk asking questions, expressing their opinions, and making mistakes necessary to the learning process.
• Ensure students are engaged through activities and technology that accommodate various learning styles, personality styles, behavioral styles, and the need for physical movement.
• Provide ongoing and timely feedback to students on their progress towards meeting big goals by frequently checking for understanding and formative assessment.
• Communicate respectfully and thoughtfully with parents/ guardians, remaining sensitive to different families’ cultures, values and needs.
• Show a commitment to supporting the holistic development of the student, both inside and outside of the class.
• Ideal candidates will be excited by becoming part of our vibrant school community, broadly engaging with students and colleagues, and attending events outside their particular field of study.

• Bachelor Degree
• 3-5 years of teaching and coaching experience desirable
• Experience working with high school students
• Experience as a competitor or coach in speech and/or debate events

 Compensation

• Part Time/ hourly - $30-$40/ hour, 16-20 hours per week

How to apply: Interested candidates should submit their application by clicking here.

• Along with submitting your application, please attach your cover letter, resume, and statement of educational philosophy.