Head Varsity Cross Country Coach

Description

Established in 1972, Mount Vernon School serves over 1,250 students in Preschool through Grade 12 on our 40-acre Atlanta campus. Grounded in Christian values, Mount Vernon prepares all students to be college-ready, globally competitive, and engaged citizen leaders. Mount Vernon School anchors the Mount Vernon Organization as a destination of inquiry, innovation, and impact. Through MVSO, the online division of our Upper School, and MV Ventures, our research and educational consultancy, our organization is living its mission to design a better world by providing unique and differentiated value for all community members now and into the future.

The Team

Relationships are foundational for our athletic teams just as they are in the classroom at Mount Vernon. By prioritizing the connections built between coaches and our student-athletes, we create an environment of support, encouragement, and accountability that allows our students to achieve their athletic goals beyond what they ever imagined for themselves. More than 80% of our Upper and Middle School students participate in athletics. Participating in sports plays a positive role in supporting youth development, leading to improved academic achievement and stronger social and emotional well-being. The Athletic Team works collaboratively to deliver a high-quality experience for students and parents that lives into their core value, “We Over Me”.

The Role

This position has the opportunity to instill a sense of purpose and a drive for excellence through the relationships formed with members of the cross country team. As we continue to invest in our athletic programs and capacity, we are seeking an experienced Head Varsity Cross Country Coach who will continue to cultivate a strong community and team. Strong candidates will have head coaching experience and/or experience in an independent school setting.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead practices, workouts, and training plans focused on endurance, speed, and injury prevention
• Organize & communicate logistics (meet schedules, travel, uniforms, etc.) with Athletic Admin, students, and parents
• Monitor & support the academic progress of student-athletes
• Communicate proactively & build relationships with parents, runners, faculty, & staff
• Participate in school meetings as needed

Core Competencies

• Relationship-driven leader who can build high quality relationships of trust
• Coach and mentor who is focused on character development
• Responsive and inspiring communicator
• Proficiency in Google Suite, Mac/Apple OS, and messaging software (Slack)

Requirements

• Cross country coaching experience preferred
• Personal cross country or distance running experience at the high school, club, or collegiate level
• Knowledge of training principles, race strategy, and athlete development across a range of skill levels
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain prior to start)

Start Date | July 2026

This job description is intended to describe the basic elements of the job and should not be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. This job description does not constitute a contract. It may be modified or amended at any time as determined in the School’s discretion.

The faculty and staff of The Mount Vernon School believe the fair and equitable treatment of employees is critical to fulfilling its mission and purpose. It is the policy of The Mount Vernon School to conduct business and provide equal employment opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.