Athletic Director (Grades 5th-12th)

About the position

The High School Athletic Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing the school's athletic programs and events. This individual ensures compliance with all school, district, and state athletic policies, promotes sportsmanship and academic achievement among student-athletes, and provides leadership to coaches and staff to develop a competitive and inclusive athletic culture.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the 5th-12th grade athletic program in collaboration with principals and coaches to determine program needs yearly, as well as prior to each season to ensure consistency of programs.
• Initiate the recruitment and selection of coaches and make employment recommendations to administration and the School Board. Supervise, issue contracts, and evaluate coaches and other athletic staff.
• Provide leadership and serve as a liaison to athletic and activity booster groups.
• Ensure compliance with athletic rules and regulations, including those related to student eligibility, physicals, IHSA Bylaws and Regulations, and Conference Guidelines.
• Provide care to athletic complex fields (football, baseball, and softball) by mowing grass, turning over infields, trimming weeds, and painting for all athletic events.
• Supervise athletic funds, prepare and administer a detailed budget for the 5th-12th grade athletic programs and submit it to the Superintendent.
• Prepare and manage athletic department budgets including uniforms, equipment, transportation, and event costs.
• Oversee inventory and purchasing of athletic equipment and supplies.
• Coordinate facility use with coaches and staff.
• Promote athletic events, update and manage school social media accounts, and represent the athletic program to the public.
• Participate in IHSA, I8FA, Northeastern Athletic Conference, and Stephenson County Conference meetings to ensure the school district is maintaining positive relationships with other schools.
• Maintain athletic records and awards.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the athletic department, school administration, community, parents, and media.
• Handle parent and community concerns with professionalism and a student-centered approach.
• Attend monthly school board meetings.
• Ensure academic eligibility and student well-being through coordination with counselors and teachers.
• Promote inclusion, equity, and participation across all sports programs.
• Organize seasonal recognitions and awards programs.
• Promote high standards of ethics, sportsmanship, and academic achievement among student-athletes.
• Schedule all school athletic contests, including games, practices, and camps.
• Coordinate with the transportation director to ensure safe transportation for student-athletes to and from sporting events.
• Supervise home athletic events to ensure a safe and positive environment for players, coaches, officials, and spectators.
• Coordinate tournament hosting, playoff games, and special events.

Requirements

• Valid Illinois teaching certificate or administrative license.
• Experience in coaching or athletic administration.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of student development, athletic regulations, and safety procedures.
• CPR/AED certification preferred.

Benefits

• Regionally competitive salary based on education and experience.