DONEGAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
POSITION MANAGEMENT GUIDE
POSITION TITLE: Director of Athletics & Extra-Curricular Programs
STATUS: Full-Time, 12 momth
DEPARTMENT: Athletics & Extra-Curriculars
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Exempt
REPORTS TO: High School Principal; Superintendent
CATEGORY: Leadership
SUPERVISES: Coaches & Advisors, Administrative Assistant
SUMMARY OF PURPOSE
The Athletic and Extra-Curricular Director provides visionary leadership for the district’s athletics and extra-curricular programs, ensuring they are educationally meaningful, competitive, and inclusive. This role oversees planning, implementation, and evaluation of all programs, fostering student growth, leadership development, and positive sportsmanship. The director ensures compliance with PIAA, league, and district policies, manages budgets and resources, supports coaching staff through professional development and mentorship, and builds strong partnerships with families, booster organizations, and the community. Utilizing data, technology, and strategic planning, the director continuously improves programs to enhance student experiences and promote the district’s mission and values.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Promote athletics and extra-curricular programs as integral components of the school’s educational mission, highlighting both educational and public relations value in the community.
Demonstrate commitment to the educational and competitive aspects of the district’s athletics and extra-curricular programs.
Ensure compliance with PIAA constitution and by-laws, Lancaster/Lebanon League policies, and School District regulations.
Conduct annual written evaluations of all head coaches’ performance and provide ongoing mentorship and professional guidance.
Develop, recommend, and facilitate professional development opportunities for coaching staff, including workshops, clinics, and other skill-building programs.
Prepare interscholastic athletic schedules and related contracts with officials and member schools.
Maintain accurate eligibility lists for student-athletes and ensure all participants meet academic, health, and behavioral standards.
Develop, monitor, and manage the annual athletics and extra-curricular budget, maintaining precise records of all financial transactions.
Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all equipment and supplies at the conclusion of each sport season and coordinate reconditioning, replacement, and purchase of equipment.
Develop and maintain a five-year strategic plan for athletics and extra-curricular programs, including long-term goals for student participation, program growth, and facility needs.
Collect and analyze program data, including participation rates, student outcomes, and community feedback, to guide continuous improvement of programs.
Ensure all students have equitable access to athletics and extra-curricular programs, promoting personal growth, leadership skills, and positive sportsmanship.
Serve as a liaison with booster clubs, parent organizations, community partners, and other external stakeholders to foster engagement and support for programs.
Develop and implement communication strategies to promote program visibility, highlight achievements, and inform families and the community.
Coordinate emergency response procedures and ensure safety and risk management protocols are in place during all athletic and extra-curricular events.
Identify funding opportunities, optimize resources, and support fundraising initiatives to enhance program quality and sustainability.
Integrate technology tools for scheduling, performance tracking, and student engagement to enhance operational efficiency and program outcomes.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including students, staff, parents, and the broader community.
Maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion in sensitive matters.
Demonstrate sound judgment, problem-solving skills, and decision-making capabilities.
Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.
SCOPE AND IMPACT
This position accomplishes most of its tasks through diversified operating procedures. Internal contacts include the Board and district employees. The external contacts include outside organizations, parents and the community.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
This position requires a strong understanding of the processes and procedures of an athletic office.
A valid instructional II certificate is preferred, with one to three years of experience in athletics management (coaching, assistant athletic director, etc.) in a school setting.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL JOB REQUIREMENTS
Physically active, standing and walking for extended periods of time
Occasional bending, crouching, stooping, twisting, reaching and grasping
Some lifting, up to 25 pounds
Able to receive and deliver detailed information through written and oral communications
Manual dexterity and repetitive movement of fingers and hands for keyboarding
Typically requires close visual acuity involved with preparing and analyzing data, viewing a computer screen and extensive reading
Able to function at a high level in a fast paced work environment
Able to work 1-on-1, in small groups and in large groups of students and colleagues
Able to observe and manage students in multiple school settings
