Job Description

The Middle School VEX Robotics Coach is responsible for mentoring and guiding 6th and 7th grade students through the design, building, programming, and competition aspects of VEX Robotics. The coach fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation in a positive, inclusive, and competitive environment, preparing students to compete in local, regional, and potentially national VEX Robotics competitions. Depending on the selected candidate's technical experience and comfort level, the program scope will be structured under one of two operational pathways for the current school year:

• In-House Pathway Focuses on foundational skills, internal scrimmages, and student-versus-student design challenges within the school.
• Competitive Pathway Expands to standard VEX Robotics Competition (VRC/VIQC) guidelines, preparing student teams to participate in regional inter-school events throughout the season.
  
  Salary:
• Compensation will be in accordance with Schedule C of the ALEA Master Agreement (Group 12)

Key Responsibilities:

• Instruction & Mentorship: Teach basic robotics engineering concepts, mechanical assembly, gear ratios, sensor integration, and coding using VEX Robotics platforms.
• Program Management: Design practice schedules, structure student work sessions, manage equipment/inventory, and assign team roles (builders, coders, notebookers, drivers).
• Adaptable Track Execution:
  • In-House Track: Design and run internal scrimmages, challenge games, and mini-competitions for participating 6th and 7th graders.
  • Competitive Track: Register teams for official VEX events, coordinate logistics/chaperones, enforce game rules, and manage match strategies during external meets.
• Student Safety & Supervision: Maintain active supervision during after-school practices and events, ensuring safe tool/equipment handling and adherence to district student conduct guidelines.
• Positive Environment: Foster teamwork, sportsmanship, logical problem-solving, and inclusive collaboration among middle school participants.
• Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for parents/guardians, school administrative staff, and activity coordinators regarding schedule updates and program updates.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience: Experience working with middle school-aged youth (6th�7th grade) in a school, club, or instructional setting. Prior experience with STEM, engineering, or VEX Robotics platforms preferred, but training can be provided for motivated candidates starting with the In-House track.
• Contract: Subject to the provisions of the Albert Lea Education Association (ALEA) Master Agreement under Group 12 stipend classification.
• Skills: Strong organizational skills, adaptability, patience, basic technical aptitude, and clear communication abilities.

Time Commitment:

• Weekly after-school practices (1�2 times per week).
• Possibly several weekend competitions throughout the season (October�February).