To the Illinois High School Association (IHSA):

We, the undersigned students, parents, coaches, and concerned community members, respectfully request the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) to take action to level the playing field in high school athletics by separating public and private schools in postseason playoffs.

Reasons for Our Petition:

 1. Unfair Recruitment Advantages

Unlike public schools, private schools have the ability to recruit students from a wider geographic area without the limitations of district boundaries. This allows private schools to assemble highly competitive teams by drawing talent from across multiple communities, giving them a distinct and unfair advantage over public schools.

 2. Unequal Funding and Resources

Private schools often have access to more financial resources through tuition, donations, and alumni contributions. These resources translate into superior facilities, coaching staff, training programs, and equipment, which further enhance their athletic programs in ways that many public schools cannot match.

 3. Disparity in Enrollment Policies

Public schools are bound by strict zoning and enrollment rules, while private schools are not. This flexibility allows private schools to build athletic programs that do not reflect the same challenges faced by public schools, such as fluctuations in enrollment or community demographics.

 4. Historical Data Supporting Disproportional Success

Statistics show that private schools frequently dominate state tournaments, often outpacing public schools in various sports. This consistent success underscores the systemic advantages that private schools hold over their public counterparts.

Proposed Solution:

We propose that the IHSA establish separate playoff divisions for private and public schools. This approach has been successfully implemented in other states, creating more equitable competition and ensuring that schools with similar resources and restrictions compete against each other.

Benefits of This Change:

 • Provides a fair and level playing field for student-athletes.

 • Promotes a more positive and competitive experience for all participants.

 • Encourages community support by fostering fairer matchups.

Conclusion:

This petition is not intended to diminish the achievements of private school athletes or programs but to advocate for fairness in competition. By addressing these inequities, the IHSA can uphold its commitment to promoting equitable opportunities for all student-athletes in Illinois.

We urge the IHSA to take immediate steps to implement these changes and ensure fairness in Illinois high school athletics. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.