Director of Athletics

Dysart Unified School District•Surprise, AZ

13h•Onsite

About The Position

The District Athletic Director provides leadership, coordination, and oversight for all athletic programs across the school district. This role ensures compliance with district policies and state regulations, promotes student-athlete development, and supports coaches, staff, and administrators. The Athletic Director serves as an advocate for the district with the state athletic association and is responsible for program planning, budgeting, scheduling, and fostering a culture of sportsmanship and academic success. The position requires a visible presence at K–12 athletic events to ensure safe, well-organized experiences and to support administrators, coaches, and event staff. Additionally, the Director provides leadership and oversight for the district’s student broadcasting and multimedia production programs through direct supervision of the Coordinator of Student Broadcasting and Multimedia Productions.

Requirements

Valid Arizona Principal’s certificate.
Obtain and maintain a valid Arizona Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card (AZ IVP FPCC).
Valid Arizona driver’s license.
Thorough knowledge of Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) rules, regulations, bylaws, and compliance requirements, as well as NFHS guidelines governing interscholastic athletics.
Understanding of federal and state laws impacting school athletics, including Title IX, ADA, FERPA, and Arizona Department of Education policies.
Knowledge of K–12 educational systems and the integration of athletics in supporting academic achievement, student engagement, and whole-child development.
Expertise in athletic program administration, including scheduling, budgeting, facilities use, transportation coordination, and large-event management.
Knowledge of risk management, student safety protocols, and emergency procedures, including heat mitigation strategies relevant to Arizona climates.
Understanding of coach hiring, supervision, evaluation, and professional development, including certification requirements (e.g., NFHS coaching certifications).
Knowledge of student-athlete eligibility standards, academic requirements, and AIA compliance procedures.
Understanding of equity and inclusion in athletics, including Title IX compliance, gender equity, and equal access to programs and resources.
Familiarity with community engagement and public relations, including working with parents, booster organizations, and community partners.
Knowledge of athletic facilities planning and maintenance, including shared-use coordination and long-term capital considerations.
Working knowledge of financial management, including budget development, purchasing procedures, and activity fund oversight.
Familiarity with athletic management systems and data tools (e.g., scheduling platforms, eligibility tracking systems, and communication tools).
Strong leadership and organizational skills to effectively manage district-wide athletic programs and initiatives.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with students, coaches, administrators, families, and community stakeholders.
Ability to interpret and apply AIA regulations, district policies, and legal requirements with accuracy and consistency.
Strategic planning and problem-solving skills to address complex operational and programmatic challenges.
Budget management and financial oversight skills, including resource allocation and fiscal accountability.
Conflict resolution and decision-making skills in high-pressure and time-sensitive situations.
Ability to supervise, mentor, and evaluate coaching staff and athletic personnel.
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks, events, and deadlines simultaneously.
Crisis management skills, including the ability to respond effectively to safety concerns and emergencies.
Cultural competency and commitment to equity and inclusion in athletics programs.
Proficiency in technology systems, including athletic management software, scheduling tools, and data tracking systems.
Ability to build partnerships and foster positive relationships with community organizations, booster clubs, and external agencies.
Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Requires mobility to travel between school sites and athletic facilities across the district.
Ability to stand, walk, and move about for extended periods during practices, competitions, and events.
Visual and auditory ability to monitor events, ensure participant safety, and respond effectively to emergencies.
Ability to operate standard office equipment and technology, including computers, communication devices, and athletic management systems.
Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license and maintain the ability to travel for district business.
Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications, clearances, and background checks in accordance with district and state requirements.

Nice To Haves

Three (3) years of experience in teaching.
Three (3) years of experience as a high school athletic director and coach.
Three (3) years of experience as a school principal.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership, vision, and direction for all K–12 athletic programs across the district.
Supports the district’s student broadcasting and multimedia production programs, including direct supervision of the Coordinator of Student Broadcasting and Multimedia Productions.
Attends and supervises athletic events across all K–12 schools to ensure safe, well-organized, and positive experiences for students and spectators.
Maintains a visible presence at district athletic contests to support administrators, coaches, and event staff.
Develop, implement, and evaluate district-wide athletic policies, procedures, and programs aligned with district goals and state regulations.
Ensure compliance with all governing bodies (e.g., AIA, state associations, Title IX, district policies).
Assist in hiring, supervision, and evaluation of site athletic directors, coaches, and support staff.
Coordinate and monitor all interscholastic athletic programs, including scheduling, transportation, and event management.
Develop and manage the district athletic budget, including allocations, expenditures, and financial reporting.
Ensure equitable access to athletic opportunities, facilities, and resources for all students.
Promote student-athlete academic achievement, eligibility, and character development.
Provide professional development, training, and guidance for coaches and athletic staff.
Oversee risk management, student safety, and compliance with health protocols, including concussion and injury procedures.
Coordinate athletic facility usage, maintenance planning, and long-term capital improvement needs.
Serve as the district liaison with governing athletic organizations, community partners, and booster clubs.
Support and monitor fundraising efforts and ensure compliance with district guidelines.
Develop and enforce standards for sportsmanship, conduct, and ethical behavior among athletes, coaches, and spectators.
Analyze participation data and program effectiveness to guide continuous improvement.
Oversee purchasing and inventory of athletic equipment and uniforms.
Coordinate district-wide athletic events, tournaments, and special programs.
Ensure accurate record-keeping, reporting, and documentation related to athletics.
Address and resolve concerns, complaints, or conflicts related to athletic programs.
Promote community engagement and positive public relations for district athletics.
Collaborate with school administrators to align athletics with the overall educational mission.
Other job-related duties as assigned.