Sunsetting Process for Interscholastic Programs

A fine arts activity or sport that has full NDHSAA interscholastic status may be considered for sunsetting if the number of competing teams and/or the number of schools offering a program drops below an acceptable level. The process is as follows:

Step 1: NDHSAA Sports or Fine Arts Activity Identified as At Risk

• When an activity or sport falls below 12 participating teams/schools in an activity or sport that has previously had 12 or more participating teams/schools, the Association will identify the program as “At Risk.” 
• The NDHSAA Board of Directors may choose to cease sponsorship of a state tournament when the number of participating teams is fewer than 12 for three consecutive years or at any time as deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors.

Step 2: Non-Tournament Interscholastic Status

• Once the Board of Directors has made the decision to cease to sponsor a state tournament, the activity or sport will be considered a “non-tournament interscholastic” activity or sport.
• Throughout the time that the sport is non-tournament interscholastic, the Association will communicate and consult with participating schools.  The Association will also partner with program leaders in encouraging the establishment and growth of additional team/schools involved.

Step 3: Probationary Status

• Should a program be identified as “Non-Tournament Interscholastic,” it will also be considered as “Probationary,” and will have three consecutive years until the Board of Directors determines its status.  Should the program be deemed probationary, the Board will communicate with all teams/schools to inform them of the change in status and potential next steps.
• As a probationary program, should the program increase to at least 12 teams/schools for three consecutive years, the program will return to full interscholastic status and a tournament will be reinstated, if appropriate. This action will also reset the sunset process to year zero.
• Should a program remain a probationary program for three or more consecutive years, the Board of Directors has the authority and option to sunset the program.

Step 4: Sunset Recommendations

• When sunsetting a program, the priority is to seek ways in which the opportunity for students will continue. This includes consulting and working with leadership in non-Association programming with the intent to continue member school participation in the program, yet have it governed and supported by a different entity.
• Following the sunsetting of a program, should the program grow and request reinstatement into the Association, the program will follow the “Addition of a Sport or Activity” process and policy.

NDHSAA Board of Directors Approval – June 11, 2024