Job Title: Assistant Principal of Athletics
Reports To: Principal
Supervises: Athletic Coaches, Athletic Trainers, Athletic Program Staff, and Student-Athletes
Position Description
The Assistant Principal of Athletics is responsible for leading and managing the athletic programs at Shepard High School to foster a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and student development. This role focuses on ensuring high-quality athletic programming, promoting equity and sportsmanship, supporting student-athletes’ academic success, and maintaining compliance with state and district policies.
Essential Functions
Athletic Program Leadership
- Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of all athletic programs.
- Supervise and evaluate athletic coaches to ensure high standards of coaching and mentorship.
- Coordinate the scheduling of athletic events, practices, and competitions, ensuring alignment with district policies.
- Manage the recruitment and hiring process for coaching staff.
- Collaborate with the Principal and establish a vision for the athletic program.
Student-Athlete Development - Promote academic success among student-athletes by collaborating with academic staff to monitor progress.
- Develop programs to support student-athlete leadership, character development, and mental health.
- Foster opportunities for student-athletes to engage in community service and leadership activities.
- Ensure compliance with Athletic Code of Conduct and Student Handbook
Student and Community Engagement - Lead initiatives to ensure equitable access to athletic programs for all students.
- Promote diversity and inclusion within athletic teams and coaching staff.
- Collaborate with the Equity Committee to align athletic programming with school-wide equity goals.
- Serve as a liaison between the school’s athletic programs and community stakeholders.
- Build partnerships with Boosters and local organizations to enhance resources for student-athletes.
- Communicate regularly with parents regarding athletic program updates, schedules, and expectations.
- Collaborate with public relations staff to promote athletic achievements through various media channels.
Facilities and Equipment Management - Oversee the maintenance, scheduling, rentals, and safety of all athletic facilities.
- Manage the procurement, inventory, and distribution of athletic equipment.
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and guidelines for all sports activities.
- Plan and oversee athletic events such as games, tournaments, banquets, and recognition ceremonies.
Compliance and Risk Management - Ensure all athletic programs comply with state regulations (e.g., IHSA) and district policies.
- Oversee eligibility requirements for student-athletes in collaboration with counselors and academic staff.
- Implement risk management strategies to ensure the safety of participants in all sports activities.
Additional Responsibilities - Assist in managing student discipline issues as needed throughout the school year.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.
Qualifications & Experience - Minimum of 5 years of teaching experience at the high school level.
- Prior leadership roles in an educational or athletic setting preferred.
- Prior coaching experience at the high school level is preferred.
- Demonstrated success in implementing student engagement or enrichment programs through athletics.
Required Education & Certification - Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Sports Administration, or a related field.
- Valid state-issued administrative license or certification.
Required Knowledge and Skills - Strong understanding of best practices in high school athletics administration.
- Knowledge of equity principles and experience implementing inclusive practices in sports programs.
- Proficiency in data analysis to monitor program effectiveness and student-athlete performance.
- Excellent communication skills to build relationships with students, staff, parents, and community members.
- Familiarity with IHSA regulations or similar governing body rules.
Working Conditions
Requires prolonged sitting or standing; must work in fast-paced environments; ability to handle multiple tasks; frequent travel within the district and conference; regular evening or weekend commitments for athletic events; requires physical and emotional stamina for event supervision.
Compensation & Benefits
The position includes a competitive compensation package (based on experience and education) with family health/dental insurance, basic life insurance coverage up to 100k, professional development opportunities, and more.
Salary range: 90,000-120,000 (based on experience and education).
