Opinion: Protect the Purpose of School Sports Funding

High school sports remain one of the few places where opportunity is still rooted in education, affordability and access.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The author argues that high school sports and activities are an essential part of a well-rounded education, not an extracurricular luxury. They provide opportunities for students to learn valuable life lessons, stay engaged in school, and succeed academically. As school districts face budget challenges, the author calls for a serious commitment from the state to adequately fund public education so that schools don't have to choose between academic programs and the activities that support student success.

Why it matters

High school sports and activities play a vital role in student development, engagement, and academic achievement. They teach important life skills like discipline, teamwork, and resilience, and often keep students motivated to attend school and succeed in the classroom. Preserving these opportunities is crucial, especially for families who may not be able to afford private or club sports.

The details

Across the country, youth sports have become a $40 billion industry, with club teams, travel programs and private training pricing participation out of reach for many families. High school sports operate differently - they exist within schools, alongside classrooms, guided by the same educational mission. Participation supports academic success while teaching valuable life lessons. For many students, athletics are not separate from academics but a key reason they stay engaged in school, attend regularly and strive to succeed.

  • The Anchorage School District recently announced it may eliminate certain high school sports programs to address ongoing financial challenges.

The players

Karissa Niehoff

The author of the opinion piece and the Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).

Anchorage School District

The school district in Anchorage, Alaska that is facing budget challenges and considering cutting high school sports programs.

Alaska School Activities Association (ASAA)

The state high school activities association in Alaska that works with schools and communities to advocate for education-based high school sports and activities.

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What they’re saying

“High school sports and activities are an essential part of a well-rounded education, not an extracurricular luxury.”

— Karissa Niehoff, Executive Director, National Federation of State High School Associations (adn.com)

“High school athletics are our schools' most powerful tools for dropout prevention, academic motivation, positive behavior and consistent attendance.”

— Karissa Niehoff, Executive Director, National Federation of State High School Associations (adn.com)

What’s next

The Anchorage School District will need to make a decision on whether to eliminate certain high school sports programs as it works to address its ongoing financial challenges.

The takeaway

High school sports and activities are an essential part of a well-rounded education, providing valuable learning opportunities and keeping students engaged in school. As school districts face budget pressures, it's crucial that state governments step up to adequately fund public education so that schools don't have to choose between academic programs and extracurricular activities that support student success.