Which is the governing body for private and parochial schools in Texas with students in grade 9-12?

• A. UIL
• B. NFHS
• C. TAPPS
• D. NCAA

Answer: (C)

In Texas, who runs high school competition depends on school type. Private and parochial high schools (including those in grades 9–12) compete under TAPPS—the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools. TAPPS administers its member schools’ interscholastic athletics and activities, including league schedules and state championships, specifically for private and religiously affiliated schools.

The UIL handles public-school districts in Texas, which means public high schools follow UIL rules and championships. The NFHS provides national rules and standards for many sports, but it does not govern a state's private-school leagues. The NCAA oversees college athletics, not high school. So for private and parochial high schools in Texas, TAPPS is the governing body.