Junior High Coach

Reports To: Activities Director 

Purpose of the Position

The Junior High Coach is responsible for developing foundational skills, positive habits, and a love for participation in athletics. This position focuses on growth, effort, and preparing student-athletes for success at the high school level while promoting Lennox School District values.

Supervision & Guidance

The Junior High Coach operates under the supervision and guidance of:

• High School Head Coach

• Activities Director 

• Junior High Principal

• Junior High Assistant Principal

• Superintendent

• Director of Student Services

Evaluation:

The Junior High Coach will be evaluated by the Activities Director, with input from building and district administration as appropriate, based on:

• Program culture and athlete experience

• Student-athlete development (behavioral, academic, and athletic)

• Communication with athletes, parents/guardians, and staff

• Compliance with district and SDHSAA expectations

• Professionalism and representation of Lennox School District

Education/Qualifications:

• High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree preferred

• Previous coaching and/or working with youth preferred

• Participation in athletics preferred

• Building assignment preferred to support student relationships and daily engagement

Certifications & Requirements

• Fundamentals of Coaching (one-time requirement)

• Sports First Aid or Prevention and Car of Athletic Injuries (renewed every two years)

• Concussion in Sports - What You Need to Know (renewed annually)

• The Collapsed Athlete (renewed every two years)

• Heat Illness Prevention (renewed yearly, fall sports only)

• CHEER ONLY Safety Certification (every four years)

Program Leadership

• Assist in supporting the overall program (grades 7–12 alignment)

• Reinforce program culture, expectations, and standards

• Focus on participation, development, and positive experiences

• Align with high school program philosophy

Coaching and Player Development

• Plan and conduct structured, age-appropriate practices

• Teach fundamental skills, techniques, and basic strategies

• Emphasize effort, improvement, and confidence-building

• Encourage multi-sport participation

Student-Athlete Development

• Promote positive behavior, accountability, and sportsmanship

• Support academic success and school expectations

• Create a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment

• Build confidence and enjoyment in participation

Staff Management

• Collaborate with other junior high and high school coaches

• Support program consistency across levels

• Communicate effectively with program leadership

Compliance and Expectations

• Follow all SDHSAA rules and Lennox School District policies

• Maintain required certifications and eligibility standards

• Adhere to offseason contact and participation regulations

• Ensure proper supervision at all practices, contests, and team activities

Communication

• Maintain clear, consistent communication with:

• Student-athletes

• Parents/guardians

• Coaching staff

• Activities Director

• Junior High Office

• Other district employees

• Follow the Parent–Coach–Activities Director communication protocol

• Provide timely and appropriate program updates

Game and Event Management

• Prepare athletes for competition with a development-first mindset

• Ensure appropriate participation opportunities when possible

• Promote sportsmanship among players and spectators

• Represent Lennox School District with professionalism

Equipment and Budget

• Assist with equipment distribution, care, and storage

• Communicate equipment needs to program leadership

• Support responsible use of program resources

Program Promotion and Community Engagement

• Encourage participation and enthusiasm for Lennox activities

• Support youth program connections and development

• Promote school pride and positive behavior

Essential Functions and Duties

• Assist in the direction of junior high athletic programs

• Promote a positive and inclusive environment

• Maintain cooperative relationships with staff and students

• Assist with program needs as directed by the Activities Director or administration

Working Conditions

• Climatic Environment (Indoor and Outdoor)

• Exposure to varying temperatures and weather conditions

• Exposure to noise, dust, and other environmental factors

• Hazards

• Potential exposure to body fluids or communicable diseases

• Travel-related risks associated with practices and competitions

Work Year and Compensation

• This is an extra-duty, extra-pay position (seasonal)

• Duties may occur throughout the calendar year based on program needs and sport season

Lennox Coaching Identity and Standard

Junior High Coaches in the Lennox School District are expected to build programs that prioritize:

• Development of fundamentals and confidence

• Positive first experiences in athletics

• Multi-sport participation and exploration

• Strong relationships with students, staff, and families

• A culture of effort, respect, and teamwork

• Preparing student-athletes for high school success

• Representing Lennox with integrity, professionalism, and pride

• Doing things the right way—on and off the field of play