CCA 8th Grade Participation in HS Athletics Administrative Regulation

As we prepare for the upcoming 2026 school year, we want to share an update regarding Iowa's recently enacted HF2591 legislation that allows eligible 8th grade students to participate in high school athletics.

The purpose of this regulation is to establish a consistent process for evaluating requests for 8th grade student participation in high school activities in accordance with Iowa law and district policy. Participation at the high school level as an 8th grade student is considered an exception and shall be approved only when it is determined to be in the best interests of both the student and the district's educational and extracurricular programs.

Review Process

Step 1 – Head Coach Recommendation

The review process begins with a recommendation from the head varsity coach. The coach shall determine whether participation by an 8th grade student is appropriate based on the needs of the program and whether the student demonstrates the potential to meaningfully contribute at the high school level.

A favorable recommendation from the head coach does not guarantee approval for participation.

Step 2 – Administrative Review

If recommended by the head coach, the Activities Director and building administration shall conduct an individual review of the student. The purpose of the review is to determine whether participation at the high school level is in the best interests of both the student and the district's educational and extracurricular programs.

Factors considered may include, but are not limited to:

• Athletic skill and competitive readiness.
• Physical maturity and safety considerations, including the student's Preparticipation Physical Evaluation (Sports Physical) and the Supplemental Provider Attestation for 8th Grade Student Participation in High School Athletics. The district may consider the healthcare provider's assessment of the student's overall medical clearance, growth and physical development, musculoskeletal health, cardiovascular and neurological health, emotional and psychosocial maturity, and whether participation at the requested level of competition is medically appropriate. - Educational, emotional, and social readiness, including academic standing, attendance, behavior, maturity, and the student's ability to successfully transition into a high school environment.
• Character, citizenship, and behavioral history.
• The student's long-term athletic and educational development.
• The impact on both the middle school and high school programs.
• Roster size, participation opportunities, and overall program needs.
• Applicable eligibility requirements established by the district and governing organizations.
• Any other factors determined to be relevant to the student's success or the best interests of the student and the district.

No single factor shall be solely determinative. Each request shall be evaluated individually, and approval may be granted, denied, or limited based upon the totality of the information considered during the review process.

Step 3 – Final Determination

Following the review, the Activities Director, in consultation with the building principal and superintendent or designee, shall determine whether participation is appropriate.

All decisions shall be made with consideration for the student's overall well-being, the integrity of district programs, and the educational mission of the Clear Creek Amana Community School District.

Approval may be granted, denied, or limited based upon the findings of the review.

Participation during one season or activity does not guarantee approval for future seasons, activities, or school years.

Students who are not approved for participation as 8th graders remain fully eligible to participate and compete for high school roster opportunities upon entering 9th grade in accordance with the district's standard team selection procedures.

The district reserves the right to modify or discontinue an approved placement if circumstances change or continued participation is no longer determined to be in the best interests of the student or the district.

Additional Information

The Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) have developed a Frequently Asked Questions document that explains the new legislation and addresses many of the questions families may have regarding eligibility and participation.

HF2591 FAQ

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As I begin my role as Activities Director at Clear Creek Amana, I appreciate the warm welcome our family has already received from this community.

One of my commitments is to ensure our department operates with consistency, transparency, and a student-first mindset. Athletics and activities are an extension of the educational experience, and every decision we make should support the growth of our students while protecting the culture and integrity of our programs.

Our goal is to provide opportunities that allow every Clipper to grow, compete, and represent our school with pride. We will approach this new legislation with the same philosophy that guides all of our work—being All In. All Out. For every student, every program, and every decision.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. As additional guidance becomes available and our local procedures are finalized, we will communicate those updates with our families.

If you have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Go Clippers!

Jake Stenberg
jacobstenberg@ccaschools.org
Activities Director
Clear Creek Amana Community School District