Cross Country Coach | Des Moines Prep

Cross Country Coach | Des Moines Prep  

About Des Moines Prep
Des Moines Prep (www.desmoinesprep.org)  is a new public charter high school opening in August 2025 to serve 150 ninth-grade students in its inaugural class. The school will add an additional grade level each year, building out a full comprehensive high school that offers academic excellence, a wide array of extracurriculars, and hyper-focused college and career preparation. As one of the flagship schools for Opportunity Education (www.opportunityeducation.org), Des Moines Prep aims to set a model for schools nationwide.

About the Role: Cross Country Coach (Boys and Girls)

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Cross Country Coach to launch and lead the team at Des Moines Prep’s new school. As the founding coach, you’ll have the unique opportunity to build team culture, establish training programs, and inspire student-athletes to grow in skill, confidence, and sportsmanship - ultimately, you will be laying the foundation for a varsity program. Ideal candidates have coaching or running experience, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to youth development. This part-time role involves leading practices with 8th and 9th grade students (boys and girls) after school several days per week.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and implement a comprehensive training program for student-athletes.


• Organize and lead practices, workouts, and team events.


• Build a positive and inclusive team culture aligned with school values.


• Coordinate logistics for meets, transportation, uniforms, and registration.


• Communicate regularly with students, families, and school staff.


• Ensure student-athletes meet eligibility requirements and academic expectations.


• Foster character development, sportsmanship, and goal setting.


• Attend required coaching trainings and meetings.

Ideal Candidate Experiences

• Experience in running, coaching, or organizing athletic programs.


• Previous coaching experience (especially cross country).

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Ability to motivate and mentor student-athletes.


• Passion for youth development.


• Excited to work alongside a founding team and shape the future of athletics at Des Moines Prep.


• Committed to Des Moines Prep’s mission of excellence and joy for students, staff, and families.


• Highly organized and flexible in a fast-paced school setting.


• Strong communication and collaboration skills.


• Availability for after-school practices and weekend meets.

Compensation

We will be offering a semester stipend for this position ranging from $3000-5000, depending on size of program.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.