Mission

All student-athletes will have exposure to high quality athletic programs, giving them the opportunity to go to college and participate in sports.

Philosophy of Interscholastic Competition

In the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), interscholastic athletic participation exists as part of our Whole Child Commitment to unlock students’ full potential. Participation in athletics is a privilege reserved for eligible students that meet and exceed the academic and behavioral expectations of the district.  We are committed to growth and our aim is to continually expand opportunities for participation as they align with the skills, interests, resources, and opportunities within the community.

Participation in school sports can be one of the most significant and meaningful learning experiences for a student.  Interscholastic athletics is viewed as an extension of the academic curriculum and is an expanded opportunity for students to learn important skills, develop positive character traits such as confidence, self-discipline, respect, and commitment.  Interscholastic athletics also allows for students to be exposed to diverse experiences and individuals and promotes a Transformative Culture where all students, families, community members, and staff feel safe, respected, and connected.

Grades K-4: Participation in sports during the early elementary grades are meant to introduce students to athletic opportunities and the benefits of an active lifestyle.  The focus is on sport fundamentals and programs are designed to allow students to sample multiple sports. Programs are designed with the novice athlete in mind and continually reinforce basic skills and the beliefs in sportsmanship, teamwork, and positive school pride.

Grades 5-8: Participation in sports during the upper elementary and middle school grades will focus on sport fundamentals, skill development, sportsmanship and introduction to competitive athletics.  Although participation on some teams may be limited by resources and supervision requirements, the Office of Athletics seeks to maximize participation opportunities wherever possible and participation by all students is strongly encouraged.  Programs continue to be designed to encourage sampling and students are encouraged to participate on multiple athletic teams.

Governance

DPSCD has established the Public School League (PSL) to facilitate interscholastic play and competition. The League is comprised of district elementary, middle, and high schools and is administered through the Office of Athletics. 

The PSL is organized, supervised and maintained under the jurisdiction of the DPSCD. The Office of Athletics has oversight, approval and delegation authority for rules, regulations, procedures, schedules and is responsible for the governance of athletic activities for participating schools within the District.

All student-athletes are governed by the DPSCD Student Code of Conduct and subject to rules of the PSL and MHSAA for sport participation and conduct.

Non-Discrimination Policy

It is the policy of the DPSCD that:

No person shall be discriminated against or excluded from participation in DPSCD sponsored activities based on race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, gender, marital status, or handicap.

Title IX

Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and its implementing regulations, no individual may be discriminated against on the basis of sex in any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. Sexual harassment of students is a form of prohibited sex discrimination under the circumstances described in the Guidance. Schools are required by the Title IX regulations to have grievance procedures through which students can complain of alleged sex discrimination, including sexual harassment.

Sports Offered

Grades 5-8 Sports

Grades K-4 Sports*

*All K-4 Sports are CoEd with the exception of Sideline Cheer which is limited to the participation of Girls Only.