Programs of the NFHS related to Citizenship Through Sports and Fine Arts

NFHS Citizenship Committee - Established in 1998 by the NFHS, the mission of the committee is to assist member state associations in developing quality citizens through participation in interscholastic athletics and activities which are a vital part of the educational process. In partnership with the school/community, the laboratory of competition will provide life-long learning opportunities for participants to become citizens who provide positive contributions to their schools, workplaces and society.

Be A Sport - Established by the NFHS in 1990, this program has developed into a national effort supported by the membership of the NFHS to encourage and underscore the importance of sportsmanship. Through this program, many of the state associations of the NFHS have developed and instituted year-round sportsmanship efforts. This program is overseen through the Citizenship Committee of the NFHS.

National High School Activities Week - Since 1980, the NFHS has set aside the third week in October to celebrate and encourage schools and communities to highlight the importance of high school activities. Through the week, different days, such as national Be A Sport day, are highlighted through official designation. Through publications and media, the NFHS distributes materials to member state associations to assist their member schools in recognizing this week. This program is overseen through the Citizenship Committee of the NFHS.

National Federation Interscholastic Coaches Education Program - Since 1988, the NFHS, in partnership with the American Sport Education Program, has developed national trainings to assist coaches in their professional development. Over 40 states actively participate and endorse this program.

NFHS Conferences - Through these national conferences for state association staff, coaches, officials and athletic directors, the NFHS provides meaningful opportunities to further the education and knowledge of these groups.

Publications - The NFHS produces over eight million publications a year including rules books, the NFHS NEWS, Interscholastic Athletic Administration and various other publications for the professional organizations.

Professional Organizations - The NFHS provides membership organizations for athletic directors, coaches, officials, spirit, speech, debate and music. These organizations have been kept apprised of the Citizenship Through Sports effort and their potential involvement.

Media Outlets - Our state associations have been willing to utilize state tournaments to provide a grass-roots opportunity to disseminate messages of national interest. Schools have also been willing to distribute and display messages and media distributed and provided by the NFHS. Millions of young people, parents, and citizens participate, spectate and officiate in these interscholastic programs.