Interim and/or Permanent Director of Athletics
Fountain Valley School, a selective and diverse boarding school, educates 210 students in grades 8–12 on a beautiful 1,100-acre campus in Colorado Springs, CO. Founded in 1930, the School provides a rigorous, global curriculum in academics, arts, athletics, and the outdoors.
The Position:
Fountain Valley School is looking for a dynamic and experienced Director of Athletics with opportunities for both Interim Director and Permanent Director. The Director of Athletics reports to and works closely with the Head of School to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. They are responsible for managing all aspects of athletic programs, including scheduling games and competitions, coordinating travel arrangements, overseeing facilities maintenance, and ensuring compliance with rules and regulations. They provide leadership and direction for the athletic department, set goals, develop strategic plans, and establish policies and procedures to guide the operation of sports programs.
Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Oversee and support traditional and non-traditional and signature programs including Western/English Equestrian, Mountain Biking, and Rock climbing; alongside traditional CHSAA team sports
- Responsible for the oversight of the budget for the department
- Work closely with faculty and staff; recruiting, evaluating and assisting with the professional development of coaches and afternoon activities faculty
- With the Head of School, plan, monitor, and evaluate all afternoon programs
- Represent the athletic program and afternoon activities by helping the entire FVS community see the role of the afternoon program as part of the school-wide curriculum
- Assist the admission department with prospective candidates interested in athletics and promote the afternoon program as part of admission recruitment
- Develop, maintain and promote the principles and guidelines of the Athletic Department Handbook, the FVS Employee Handbook, and the FVS Student Handbook
- Define and promote a culture of multi-sport participation, inclusivity, sportsmanship, and physical wellness across all skill levels
- Administer all CHSAA Compliance to be met by Fountain Valley School
- Assist in the planning for the continued development of the goals and purpose of the athletic department for both student-athletes and coaching staff
- Set department agendas and lead meetings (the Athletic Office consists of the Director of Athletics, the Athletic Operations and Equipment Manager, the Athletic Trainers, and coaches.)
- Collaborate with the director of communications in promoting athletic achievements and coaching excellence in the department
- Supervise, manage, and actively support department members by:
- Participate and provide administrative supervision of students as requested by Senior Administrative Team and respond to emergencies as necessary
- Participate in support of the Interim Program
- Coach one season of athletics/afternoon activities
- Serve as an adviser to approximately six to eight students
- Serve in a residential life role
- Serve as a positive representative of Fountain Valley School by maintaining professional interactions with students, parents, faculty, staff, and the public.
- Maintain regular and reliable, in person attendance.
- Participate in other committees as assigned
- Assist with driving students to and from events as needed
- Perform other duties as assigned
Knowledge and Skills:
- Ability to work with individuals in a courteous and professional manner
- Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate in a team environment
- Detail-oriented, organized, self-motivated, self-directed and punctual
- Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple tasks at one time
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proficient in LMS Blackbaud OnCampus and Google Educational Suite Apps preferred
- Be a role model, be punctual, demonstrate a spirit of respect, possess organizational skills, and promote good coaching practices
- Act as an intermediary between parents and coaches
- Publicly and privately represent the school and the department
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or a related qualification required; advanced degree and experience with coaching and working with students and adults in an independent boarding/day school environment preferred
- Valid Colorado Driver's License, Commercial Drivers License (B class with School Bus Endorsement) is desired
- Must possess, or have the ability to obtain and maintain, valid CPR/AED and First Aid certification within [30/60] days of hire.
Working Conditions:
- Environment: Work is performed in a variety of settings including indoor office spaces, gymnasiums, athletic facilities, and outdoor sports fields in varied weather conditions across all seasons. The role involves a fast-paced environment with regular interaction with students, parents, coaches, visiting teams, CHSAA officials, vendors, and school staff.
- Physical Demands: Requires the physical ability to coach one athletic season per year; stand, walk, and traverse campus grounds and athletic fields for extended periods; frequently bend, stoop, reach, and lift or carry equipment weighing up to 40 lbs. Ability to operate school vehicles and buses (with appropriate licensure) for student transportation.
- Work Schedule & Attendance: Exempt, 12-month full-time position. Requires regular and reliable attendance. Standard business hours will vary significantly to accommodate afternoon practice observations, home and away athletic competitions, and school events. Regular evening, weekend, and occasional holiday work is required throughout the academic year.
- Travel & Driving: Occasional regional travel is required for CHSAA meetings, away games, and athletic competitions. Must possess or be willing to obtain a valid Colorado Driver's License (CDL Class B with School Bus Endorsement preferred) to assist with student transportation.
Salary: $80,000 - $90,000
Benefits: We believe in supporting the whole person — professionally and personally. Our benefits include:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- School-paid Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Colorado Paid Leave premiums
- School-paid life insurance equal to 2x annual salary
- Voluntary life insurance options
- Employee Assistance Program for confidential support services
- Retirement plan with employer contribution
- Full access to our beautiful campus amenities, including pool, gym, indoor track, workout bikes, scenic hiking and biking trails, and our Mountain Campus
Application Deadline: October 21, 2026
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Fountain Valley School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. FVS is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and strongly encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.