Mission Statement

The National Federation of State High School Associations serves its members, related professional organizations and students by providing leadership for the administration of education-based interscholastic activities, which support academic achievement, good citizenship and equitable opportunities.

We believe:

• the NFHS is the recognized national authority on interscholastic activity programs.


• interscholastic activity programs enrich each student's educational experience.


• participation in education-based activity programs promotes student academic achievement.


• student participation in interscholastic activity programs is a privilege.


• interscholastic participation develops good citizenship and healthy lifestyles.


• interscholastic activity programs foster involvement of a diverse population.


• interscholastic activity programs promote positive school/community relations.


• the NFHS is the pre-eminent authority on competition rules for interscholastic activity programs.


• national competition rules promote fair play and minimize risks for student participants.


• cooperation among state associations advances their individual and collective well-being.


• properly trained administrators/coaches/directors promote the educational mission of the interscholastic experience.


• properly trained officials/judges enhance interscholastic competition.