The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is renowned for its excellence across academics, athletics, the arts, and various activities. Situated in central Iowa, just 6 miles from Des Moines, Ankeny CSD caters to over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade, making it the 7th largest district in the state. With a strong reputation for its commitment to student success and a competitive salary and benefits package, Ankeny CSD is a standout choice for both educators and families seeking a high-quality educational environment.

JDE: 6.22E

Mock Trial Sponsor

Position Summary

The Mock Trial sponsor will work with attorney coaches and volunteers to supervise all students who are participating in Mock Trial. The position includes supervising students at and attending scrimmages set by the sponsor and attorney coach, going to the regional tournament held in Des Moines the first week of March, and supervising and attending state, final, and national tournaments in late March and May should the teams qualify. The Mock Trial Sponsor is responsible for registering for tournaments, working with the attorney coaches and volunteers to schedule practices and scrimmages, supervising practices and scrimmages, and organizing fundraisers as needed to help offset students’ costs for the program should a team qualify for the state and/or national tournament. It is the role of the Mock Trial sponsor to communicate with students, parents and guardians, and school officials about practices, scrimmages, and tournaments.

Job Title: Mock Trial Sponsor

Employment Term: Work year established by the Superintendent

Reports To : Building Principal and Activities Director

Wage/Hour Status : Exempt

Timeline of Season

Middle School Calendar:

• August through December
• Weekly meetings set by the Mock Trial Sponsor and the Attorney Coaches.
• Dates and times subject to change: Tuesdays and Fridays from 3:45-5:30 and Sundays from 3:00-5:00, for example, with additional dates for scrimmages.
• Competition dates: Regional competition - early November, State competition - late November/early December.
• End of season celebration/banquet: Early December

High School Calendar:

• Mid December - End of March (unless the team qualifies for the National competition which takes place in May)
• Weekly meetings set by the Mock Trial Sponsor and the Attorney Coaches. Typically, coaches meet with teams twice during the week for two hours and on Sundays.
• Competition dates: Regional competition - early March, State competition - end of March, National competition (if they qualify) mid-May
• End of season celebration/banquet as decided by the teams.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Previous experience or affiliation with mock trial, preferred.
• Strong knowledge of techniques and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively lead, instruct, and supervise students and a staff.
• Ability to work under pressure and remain calm.
• Proficient in organization, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Essential Functions :

• Works with attorney coaches and volunteers to facilitate students' understanding of witness statements, court procedure, and the legal system in order to present both the plaintiff and defense sides in a court of law.
• Assist with gathering necessary equipment and materials for trials, including but not limited to blow-up exhibits, demonstratives, time keeper cards, timers, clipboards, nametags, easels, pens, and appropriate courtroom attire.
• Ensure students academic eligibility and coordinate with attorney-coaches and parents as needed to address attendance concerns, academic concerns, or any other concerns related to a student's participation in mock trial
• Supervise students during practices and competitions.
• Schedule activities for the purpose of making necessary arrangements for practices and competitions.
• Assisting in the selection process of participants for various teams .
• Work with parents and volunteers to execute fundraisers as needed.
• Organize, promote, and host scrimmages.
• Maintain positive relationships with local judges, attorneys and other school coaches to build a Mock Trial culture.
• Organize trips to tournaments, make copies of the case, and register teams for competition.
• Perform other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient functioning of the club.

Goals of the Club

• Develop students’ life skills, such as critical thinking, reading, effective public speaking, and advocacy.
• Heighten students’ appreciation for the principle of equal justice for all.
• Promote students’ awareness of current legal issues.
• Promote the exchange of ideas among students.

Other Functions

• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events, as assigned.
• Establish and promote a fundamental philosophy focused on teamwork, innovation, technical skill development, discipline, respect, and good sportsmanship.
• Build positive relationships with administration, parents, booster organizations, and industry mentors.
• Provide excellent customer service and assistance to all employees and students, fostering a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.
• Work efficiently and independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate respect and professionalism in all interactions with colleagues, students, and families.
• Use positive and professional communication in all interactions.
• Adhere to safety protocols and policies established by the Ankeny Community School District to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
• Support District goals and objectives while adhering to all District policies, contributing to the overall success of the school community.
• Demonstrate regular and dependable attendance to ensure smooth District operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Working Environment

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

The usual and customary methods of performing the position functions require the following physical demands: lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, reaching, driving, standing and walking. Working conditions may include extreme temperatures and humidity. Hazards may include exposure to communicable diseases. This position requires one to maintain emotional control under stress.

Terms of Employment

Part-time, stipend-based extracurricular position

Clearances

Background Clearance

Evaluation

Job performance will be evaluated annually, as per district policies and procedures

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

Approved by: Justin Mohr Date: August 11th, 2023

The Ankeny Community School District is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer.