The Montana High School Association is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that serves as the governing body for interscholastic activities in the state of Montana. Founded in 1921, the MHSA oversees and administers a wide range of high school athletic and fine arts programs for member schools across Montana.
Today, the MHSA includes 182 member high schools, both public and private, organized into classifications based on enrollment. The Association works in partnership with school administrators, coaches, and communities to ensure a level playing field and positive experiences for all student participants.
The MHSA governs the rules of competition, eligibility, and safety while promoting the values of education-based activities. Its staff and executive board provide leadership, accountability, and support to schools across the state in pursuit of excellence.
OUR MISSION
The Montana High School Association (MHSA) and its member schools are committed to providing equitable participation in interscholastic activities that foster educational excellence, personal growth, and sportsmanship among Montana’s youth. We believe in developing well-rounded students through athletic and non-athletic opportunities that encourage teamwork, leadership, and integrity.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Educational Excellence through Activities
- Support the integration of extracurricular activities into the broader educational mission of each school, fostering academic and personal development.
Equity and Access
- Promote inclusive opportunities for participation across all demographics, school sizes, and regions of Montana.
Financial Sustainability
- Ensure long-term financial health through efficient operations and diversified revenue streams, while supporting member schools in reducing participation costs.
Coaches and Officials Development
- Strengthen training, mentorship, and certification standards for coaches and officials to ensure safe, positive, and high-quality experiences for student-athletes.
Student Well-Being and Safety
- Prioritize the mental, emotional, and physical health of all participants through proactive safety guidelines, resources, and policy updates.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
- Build strong relationships with member schools, corporate partners, families, and fans to elevate support for interscholastic activities statewide.
CORE VALUES
With integrity, we will:
Promote respect, sportsmanship, and dignity in all interscholastic activities.
Uphold fairness and equity in rules, opportunities, and treatment.
Support lifelong learning and personal development through participation.
Protect the health, safety, and well-being of every student.
Celebrate Montana’s diverse school communities and rural traditions.
OUR VISION
The MHSA envisions a future where all Montana students have meaningful access to interscholastic programs that empower them to grow as athletes, artists, leaders, and citizens.
PURPOSE & OBJECTIVES
As outlined in the MHSA Constitution, the Association exists to:
Administer and regulate interscholastic activities and competitions for member schools.
Establish and enforce eligibility standards to promote academic and athletic balance.
Provide safe and fair environments for competition and performance.
Encourage sportsmanship, school pride, and community involvement.
Serve as a central resource for schools to promote consistency and excellence in extracurricular programs.
Recognize and celebrate achievement at both individual and team levels.
Uphold the educational value of activities and their role in student development.
