Overview
- The AHSAA Central Board voted 13-2 to restructure postseason play starting in 2026, placing public schools in six classes (1A–6A) and private schools in two divisions (A and AA).
- Class 7A is eliminated, making 6A the largest public classification and triggering widespread reclassification and new region maps across sports.
- Private and public schools may continue to schedule each other in the regular season, with playoff formats for the new private divisions to be set later this year.
- The decision removes the private-school attendance multiplier and competitive-balance formula, and AHSAA leaders said CHOOSE Act funds will no longer affect athletic eligibility.
- Private-school leaders will convene Jan. 30 at Faulkner University with Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth and AISA director Michael McClendon to discuss options, including possible departure from the AHSAA or legal action, according to the Montgomery Advertiser.