Each year, the National Association of Secondary School Principals publishes a list of contests that meet its criteria for acceptance. The committee that makes these decisions is “guided by the need principals have experienced to protect students from exploitive programs and to identify programs directly related to educational benefits,” according to the introduction to the 1995-96 list.
Under the criteria, for example, costs are supposed to be minimal, and the contest should not place an “undue burden” on students, staff members, or schools. The association discourages team events at the national level as well as activities that would require two or more days of absence from school.
This year’s list includes 71 national and 13 regional contests.
For more information, write or call the National Association of Secondary School Principals, 1904 Association Drive, Reston, Va. 22091-1537; (800) 253-7746.
