Job Description:

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT:
School Calendar; seasonal assignment(s) aligned to Special Olympics North Dakota schedules. Evening and weekend events required.

LOCATION:
District-wide placement. May serve TMES, TMMS, and TMCHS based on program needs.

EVALUATION:
As required by NDCC and Belcourt School District #7 policy.

Job Summary
The Special Olympics Coach leads inclusive, school-based athletics that provide students with intellectual and developmental disabilities opportunities to train and compete in age-appropriate events. The coach builds athlete skills, fosters teamwork and sportsmanship, ensures a safe and positive climate, and coordinates all required eligibility, medical, travel, and event logistics in compliance with district policies and Special Olympics North Dakota guidelines. This position supports Unified programming, where students with and without disabilities practice and compete together.

Qualifications 
High school diploma or higher required. Teaching license preferred but not required.
    
Documented coaching experience or relevant sport-specific experience preferred.
    
Ability to work effectively with elementary, middle, and high school students and staff.
    
Training and certifications required by TMCS and governing bodies, which may include First Aid and CPR, concussion and sudden cardiac arrest training, Protective Behaviors or equivalent youth-safety training, and successful background screening.
    
Valid driver’s license and ability to meet district requirements for travel with student groups.
    
Strong organization, communication, supervision, and record-keeping skills.
    
Commitment to culturally responsive, inclusive practices consistent with the values of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa.
 

Responsibilities
All Levels (District-wide) 
Recruit, organize, and supervise student-athletes; promote inclusion and Unified opportunities.
    
Plan and deliver safe, developmentally appropriate practices that build skills, fitness, and teamwork.
    
Maintain required athlete eligibility, medical, consent, and code-of-conduct documentation.
    
Enforce safety standards, risk management procedures, and emergency action plans.
    
Coordinate transportation, trip rosters, lodging (if applicable), meals, and event supervision.
    
Communicate consistently with families, school staff, and administrators on schedules and expectations.
    
Protect student privacy and maintain accurate participation, injury, and incident records.
    
Care for equipment and uniforms; manage inventory and requests within the approved budget.
    
Complete all required trainings and maintain current certifications.
    
Model positive sportsmanship, cultural respect, and high expectations for all students.
    
The listed responsibilities are essential functions, not exhaustive or restrictive. The Head Coach, Activities Director, Building Principal, or District Administration may assign related duties or adjust schedules as needed, consistent with district policy, governing rules, and applicable law. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Elementary (TMES) 
Emphasize fundamentals, motor skills, cooperation, and confidence building.
    
Modify activities and equipment to meet individual needs and IEP or 504 supports.
    
Collaborate with teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and the school nurse on student supports.

Middle School (TMMS) 
Progress skill development, rules knowledge, and team concepts.
    
Teach healthy competition and goal setting while supporting a wide range of abilities.
    
Monitor academic and behavior expectations consistent with school policies.

High School (TMCHS) 
Plan progressive training cycles, event entries, and competitive strategies.
    
Coordinate assistants and Unified partners; ensure adherence to event classification and rules.
    
Maintain eligibility, academic monitoring, and conduct expectations consistent with TMCHS and activity guidelines.
 
Required Documentation 
Documentation for Native American Preference (if applicable)
    
Documentation for Veteran’s Preference (if applicable)
    
Updated transcripts, licenses, and certifications relevant to the position
    
Current driver’s license
    
Three letters of reference
    
All certificates related to the position, including required training
 
Application Responsibilities 
Ensure all required documents are included in the application packet.
    
Keep contact information current during the hiring process.
    
Respond promptly to communications from the Human Resources Office.
    
Provide additional information or documentation upon request.
    Incomplete applications may not be considered for employment and may affect the BSD #7 rating sheet score. Unqualified applicants will not be considered.
 
Responsible To:
Head Coach, Activities Director(s),Building Principal(s), and TMCS District Administration

Position Sensitivity Level:
High. Direct coaching contact with students. Requires adherence to FERPA, Section 504, IDEA, and district confidentiality standards.

Additional Notes
This position requires a criminal background check and completion of all district and governing-body trainings before supervising students. Travel, evening, and weekend commitments are required. Some lifting and movement of equipment may be necessary.

RANGE OF SALARY:
Stipend per TMCS Extra-Curricular Salary Schedule for the 2025–2026 school year.

How to Apply
Submit applications through the Belcourt School District #7 Applicant Tracking System:
• Visit: belcourt.k12.nd.us > CAREERS > Vacancies
• Or apply directly via: https://phl.applitrack.com/belcourt/onlineapp/default.aspx 

Contact Information
Levi Gourneau
Assistant Superintendent/HR Director
Turtle Mountain Community Schools
1210 William Hardesty St. Belcourt, ND 58316
levi.gourneau@k12.nd.us
701-477-6471 Ext. 3240