athletics

Classification and League Alignment

WIAA Rules, Classification of Schools

• Current classifications
• “3A” - 601-1200 students
• “4A” – 1201 – up
• Classification Counts are done every two years
• New classification rule, to be implemented in 2006-07, has changed the way schools are classified, from based on numbers to based on a set % of schools – the new rule sets the % at 18% for “1A” – “4A.” This would effectively move the “4A” cut to approx. 1310 students
• Schools are given the option to “Opt-up” to a higher classification
• Counts are based on enrollment in grades 10 – 12, regardless of the schools grade alignment, from the “P223” counts of the average monthly enrollment from Jan. 1 through May 1, and October 1 through Dec. 1 of the odd numbered years.
  • Current cycle – Average enrollment in 2003 determined classification for Sept. 2004 – June 2006 cycle
    • SHS will remain 4A for the entire cycle, as determined in Dec. of 2003
    • BLHS opens mid cycle as a 3A school
• Average enrollment from 2005 determines classification for Sept. 2006 – June 2008
• Estimated enrollment
  • 2005 – 2006 school year (grades 10 – 12 only)
    • SHS - 1225 (one half of the sophomores and juniors, all seniors) - 4A classification
    • BLHS – 625 (one half of the sophomores and juniors, no seniors) – 3A classification
  • 2006 – 2007 school year (assuming a 50/50 split between the two high schools), with a total of between 1,800 and 1,950 grade 10-12 students
    • SHS – 900 - 1000
    • BLHS – 900 – 1000

League Options for 2006-07

Factors in League Selection:

1. The new classification system will change most existing leagues to some degree as some member schools change classifications
2. We will want to play in a league that offers competition within our same classification
3. Geographic considerations will have an impact on budgets

• Bus transportation
• Ticket sales at games

4. Our desire is to have the two Sumner School District high schools compete in the same league

Probable League Options:

1. A 3A division of the SPSL, consisting of existing SPSL member schools that are 3A sized schools after the re-classification, and possibly, some new members
2. A re-configured Seamount League, consisting of some of the existing Seamount schools, and some new schools
3. A new 3A league

Timeline for League Selection

1. Late April, 2005, finalization of new classification format
2. June 2005 – Nov. 2005, leagues determine options for their 2006-07format
3. August 2005 – Nov. 2005, schools weigh the options and make decisions about league alignment