Oklahoma's rule 14: The possible changes coming and why private schools are still worried

The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) is asking a judge to approve changes to Rule 14, which determines how schools are classified for sports. However, five metro private schools are suing the OSSAA, arguing that the rule unfairly forces them into higher classifications and puts their students' safety at risk.

 RELATED: 5 Metro Private Schools Are Suing The OSSAA, Saying Rule 14 Is 'Putting Student Safety At Risk'

Current Rule 14 & Private Schools’ Concerns

Under Rule 14, private schools are moved into a higher classification based on specific criteria, including:

1. The ability to decline student enrollment.
2. Location within 15 miles of a 5A or 6A public school.
3. Fewer than 25% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.
4. High school enrollment growth of 50% over three years.

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School President and Principal David Morton says the rule creates an uneven playing field. “It puts our students in a situation where they can compete against some of the best in their own particular class division and creates a broader competitive atmosphere,” Morton said.

OSSAA’s Proposed Changes:

1. Schools would be classified based on student enrollment (ADM) rather than athletic success.
2. A new committee, including representatives from both public and private schools, would oversee classifications to ensure fairness.

Why OSSAA Wants the Lawsuit Dismissed:

OSSAA argues that the lawsuit is no longer necessary because they are changing Rule 14 to address the private schools’ concerns.

Private Schools Push Back:

1. The schools argue that OSSAA is trying to bypass the court without proper legal procedures.
2. The private school's attorneys argue that OSSAA's proposed committee will still be biased, with a majority of public school representatives (7 to 4). Attorneys cite a history of bias against private schools.
3. Attorneys representing the private schools say the OSSAA board hasn't shown enough accountability for previous bias against private schools and are asking the court to ensure fairness before any changes are approved. 

Key Takeaways:

1. Rule 14 previously moved private schools up in class based on sports success, but a judge ruled this unfair.
2. OSSAA says they're making changes to fix this and make the process fairer. 

News 9s reached out to OSSAA for a statement.