Experienced Unified Sports Lead Coach – Inspiring Inclusive Sports Excellence in Waterbury, CT

Introduction to Waterbury Public Schools

Waterbury Public Schools is a vibrant and diverse educational community dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for students, staff, and families. As a leading school district in Connecticut, we are committed to fostering academic excellence, social growth, and emotional well-being for all students. Our district is built on a foundation of respect, empathy, and collaboration, and we strive to create a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are now seeking an experienced and passionate Unified Sports Lead Coach to join our team and contribute to the development of our inclusive sports program.

Job Overview

The Unified Sports Lead Coach will play a vital role in instructing high school student athletes in our Unified Sports program, providing leadership and guidance to help each participating student achieve a high level of skill, appreciation for the values of discipline and sportsmanship, and an increased level of self-esteem. This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated and experienced coach to make a positive impact on the lives of our students and contribute to the growth and success of our inclusive sports program.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Director of Athletics in scheduling contests and transportation as necessary
• Assist players in the care and prevention of injuries
• Assume primary responsibility for field or court preparation
• Attend Unified Sports Coaches' training and complete online Special Olympics Unified Sports Coaches' course(s) as required
• Attend all Unified Sports sessions, contests, and city league meetings
• Coach individual participants in the skills necessary for successful performance in the assigned sport
• Collect and maintain permission slips and medical awareness forms from athletes
• Collect and submit a list of players to the school nurse for physical examinations
• Communicate with classroom teachers to encourage individual success of each player
• Comply with Board policies and District procedures in the development and maintenance of the interscholastic athletics program
• Conduct oneself with tact and diplomacy
• Develop and implement practice plans in which Unified Sports instruction is provided to all participants
• Enforce discipline and sportsmanlike behavior at all times and impose penalties for breach of such standards by individual students
• Ensure appropriate attire at practices and events
• Ensure practice and repetition of fundamentals
• Ensure proper care of equipment
• Ensure proper organization of practices and drills
• Ensure safety of students
• Ensure that all tasks are completed in a timely manner
• Evaluate assistant coaches and program and submit written reports to the Director at the conclusion of their season
• Follow all applicable State laws and CIAC regulations as outlined in the CIAC Handbook
• Follow District procedures in establishing performance criteria for eligibility in interscholastic competition in assigned sport
• Handle all paperwork requirements and forms required by the District and Connecticut Special Olympics
• Impart the philosophy of a positive inclusive sports experience by following the principles of Unified Sports
• Interact in a positive manner with staff, students, and parents
• Liaise regularly with the school's Athletic Director and Connecticut Special Olympics to ensure quality program standards are being met and policies are being followed
• Maintain and complete necessary attendance forms, insurance records, accident reports, and similar paperwork
• Maintain and track repairs of all equipment
• Maintain respect at all times for confidential information, e.g., student athlete grades for eligibility purposes, etc.
• Maintain satisfactory attendance
• Manage athlete behavior during all athletic practices, competitions, and events
• Organize and lead all practice sessions with the recruitment and support of Associate Coaches
• Oversee the administration of a sports team which is composed of a proportional number of students with disabilities and students without disabilities
• Oversee the safety conditions of the facility or area in which assigned sport is conducted at all times that students are present
• Participate in awards program and distribute awards to players
• Plan and manage competition strategies for individuals and the team at Unified meets
• Plan and schedule a regular program of practice in season in accordance with District policy and regulations
• Promote good public relations by personal appearance, attitude, and conversation
• Provide a positive learning environment for the athletes
• Provide Director with end of year inventory and award information as requested
• Provide Director with team rosters as requested
• Provide Director with the evaluation of assigned Associate Coach as requested
• Provide for the orderly distribution and collection of all athletic equipment
• Provide information and reports to Director in a timely manner
• Recommend purchase of equipment, supplies, and uniforms as appropriate
• Recruit students with intellectual disabilities, students with other types of disabilities, and students without disabilities for the team
• Report all injuries to the Director and School Nurse
• Report the loss of equipment to the school principal and Director
• Respond to routine questions and requests in an appropriate manner
• Serve as a role model for students
• Submit physical forms and other necessary paperwork to the school nurse prior to engaging in the sport
• Take necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities
• Work closely with the Director in scheduling interscholastic contests

Essential Qualifications

• Certificate of Completion for Module 15 from the Connecticut Coaching Education Program
• Connecticut State Department of Education Coach permit or Temporary Coach permit
• Current CPR and First Aid Certificates
• High School diploma or GED
• Successful completion of pre-employment process

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in coaching Unified Sports or similar inclusive sports programs
• Knowledge of laws, principles, and practices associated with unified sports
• Knowledge of care and treatment of athletic injuries
• Knowledge of coaching techniques and human behavior
• Effective, active listening skills
• Organizational and problem-solving skills
• Coaching skills
• Public speaking skills
• Basic skills in equipment repair and maintenance as applicable
• Ability to communicate ideas and directives clearly and effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to diffuse issues
• Ability to establish and maintain rapport with students
• Ability to physically perform essential functions
• Ability to work assigned hours
• Ability to work effectively with others
• Leadership ability
• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

As a Unified Sports Lead Coach in Waterbury Public Schools, you will have access to a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including:

• Professional development workshops and training sessions
• Mentorship and coaching from experienced educators and coaches
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership development
• A collaborative and supportive work environment
• A culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion

Work Environment and Company Culture

Waterbury Public Schools is committed to creating a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our district is built on a foundation of respect, empathy, and collaboration, and we strive to create a culture that supports the well-being and success of all employees. As a Unified Sports Lead Coach, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive team that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of our students.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

Waterbury Public Schools offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• A competitive salary
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Professional development opportunities

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and experienced coach who is passionate about inclusive sports and making a positive impact on the lives of students, we encourage you to apply for the Unified Sports Lead Coach position in Waterbury Public Schools. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a dynamic and supportive team and contribute to the growth and success of our inclusive sports program. Don't miss out on this exciting role – apply now and take the first step towards a rewarding and challenging career in education.

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