Cross Country Coach (Fall 2025)

Job Description

Job Description

Cross Country Coach

August 2025 - October 2025

School Overview:

Wonder what it would be like to go snowshoeing through a maple forest? Or what it may be like to grow your own food in a greenhouse? Students at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES) don't wonder what they know! Come be a part of our 62-acres of an outdoor classroom to expand your child's love of learning. Working gardens, nature trails, forests, wetlands and prairies are all available for students to explore. WMAES students transition from desks to dirt, creating an environment for all students to learn. WMAES knows that teachers are the heart of the school and are surrounded by a support system that is committed to the success of every child.

Qualities of a Successful Candidate:

• A comfortability in an outdoor setting and a knack for creativity and innovation, incorporating hands-on activities, experiential learning, and interactive teaching methods to make environmental/outdoor learning engaging and impactful.
• An unwavering belief that all children regardless of their background can learn and exceed at high levels.
• A strong desire to achieve outstanding results in the pursuit of excellence for students.

• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.

As the Cross Country Coach, your core responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Holds organizational meetings for team prospects and encourages potential athletes to participate in the sport.
• Assesses player's skills and assigns team positions.
• Develops a regular practice schedule and organizes practice time to provide both individual and team development.
• Works with the Athletics Director in scheduling facilities for practices and competition.
• Coaches and instructs players, individually or in groups, regarding the rules, regulations, equipment, and techniques of the sport.
• Observes players, during competition and practice to determine the needs for individual or team improvement.
• Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior and provides proper supervision of athletes at all times.
• Monitors the academic performance of team members to ensure that eligibility requirements are met; and encourages student athletes to maintain a high academic standard.
• Follows established procedures in the event of an athlete's injury.
• Conferences with parents/guardians, as necessary, regarding the athletic performance of their student.
• Follows MHSAA, and school regulations governing the athletic program.
• Models sports-like behavior and maintains appropriate conduct towards players, officials, and follows established procedures for the proper care, maintenance, and requisitioning of equipment, supplies, and uniforms.
• Carries out other duties assigned by the Academy Administrator.

Job Goal: To provide students with a first class learning experience, contributing to their development as responsible citizens and leaders in their communities.

Essential Skills and Competencies: While we will consider a broad range of backgrounds, the ideal candidate would have the following qualifications/experience:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Some experience as a coach or assistant coach at the middle or high school level.
• Must possess effective coaching techniques and skills.
• Must possess a thorough knowledge of the MHSAA rules, regulations, strategies, and techniques of the sport.
• Must possess the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school administrators, parents, and students.

Work Location: 4463 Leonard ST NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534

Please contact Choice HR at [email protected] with any questions.

Working for Choice Schools Associates

West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science is part of the Choice Schools Community. As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student-centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment. By being a part of the Choice Schools Environmental Model, WMAES is a vibrant community of learning, comprised of multiple other outstanding environmental schools within the state. The Environmental Model will provide you with the support and collaboration of a large district while serving at a tight-knit community school in your area.

Choice Schools Associates is an equal opportunity employer. Choice Schools Associates does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic background. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.