Academic Decathlon Coach Wanted — Grades 6–8
Prep Academy Tutors of Los Angeles is seeking an experienced coach to lead a middle school (grades 6–8) team preparing for an academic decathlon-style competition for Catholic school students. This is a part-time, seasonal position running roughly October through early March, culminating in a regional-level competition.
About the Role
The coach will lead a team of up to 10 students through regular group practice sessions covering a broad range of academic subjects, plus two team-based events: a logic/puzzle quiz and a multi-subject "super quiz."
Responsibilities
- Plan and run team practice sessions (about once a week early in the season, increasing to twice a week as the competition nears)
- Guide students through study material across individual subject areas, which may include: Religion/Catholic doctrine, English/Language Arts, Literature, Science, Mathematics (including Algebra I/Geometry-level content), Current Events, Social Studies, and Fine Arts (Art & Music)
- Prepare students for team-based logic and "super quiz" style events
- Track student progress and adjust the practice plan as the competition date approaches
- Communicate regularly with school staff and parents on scheduling and team progress
Qualifications
- Comfortable teaching or reviewing material across multiple academic subjects — breadth is more important than deep specialization in any one area
- Strong math background, including the ability to teach Algebra I/Geometry-level concepts
- Comfortable with Catholic school culture and Catholic doctrine content
- Experience teaching or coaching middle-school-aged students, ideally in a group or team setting
- Prior experience with academic competitions (Academic Decathlon, Quiz Bowl, Scholastic Bowl, Odyssey of the Mind, or similar) strongly preferred, whether as a former competitor or coach
- Strong organizational skills — able to plan a multi-month study schedule across several subject areas at once
- Experience coaching public speaking or presentation skills is a plus
Time Commitment
Approximately one practice session per week early in the season, increasing to two sessions per week as the competition approaches (roughly October through early March).