Dallas, Texas, January 31, 2026
The University Interscholastic League (UIL) is set to announce its biennial realignment, which will redefine classifications and district assignments for Texas high schools. This announcement is slated for February 2, 2026, and aims to promote competitive balance and community support in high school sports. Key updates include Frisco ISD’s first school moving to 6A and the decision facing DeSoto High School regarding its classification. The implications of these changes will affect local rivalries and logistics for teams and fans alike.
Dallas TX Schools Prepare for Upcoming UIL Realignment
Exciting Changes Ahead for Texas High School Sports
Dallas, Texas – The University Interscholastic League (UIL) will announce its biennial realignment on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 9 a.m. CST. This pivotal event promises to reshape high school sports across Texas for the next two years, influencing classifications and district assignments dictated by the student enrollment numbers submitted by schools.
The UIL realignment is crucial for ensuring competitive balance among Texas high schools. It prompts communities to rally around their teams and encourages local support, showcasing the resilience of school organizers and community members. The process highlights the importance of individual initiative and local engagement as schools strive for excellence and unity.
Understanding UIL Realignment
Every two years, the UIL reassesses and reassigns schools into classifications and districts. This allows for a fair competitive environment, where schools are grouped based on enrollment numbers:
- Classification: Schools are classified, such as 6A, 5A, and 4A, according to their student populations. For example, a school with over 2,215 students is classified as Class 6A.
- District Assignment: Schools within the same classification are divided into districts, often considering geographic proximity to enhance rivalries and minimize travel.
Key Dates and Procedures
The UIL realignment follows a structured timeline that involves:
- Snapshot Day: A day when schools submit their student enrollment figures, forming the basis for classification decisions.
- Announcement: The public release of new classifications and district assignments, generally taking place in early February.
- Coaches’ Meeting: A gathering of high school football coaches to discuss upcoming season schedules based on new alignments.
Recent Developments
Several noteworthy changes are shaping the landscape ahead of the 2026-2028 realignment:
- Frisco ISD’s First 6A School: Frisco Wakeland High School is moving up to 6A, marking Frisco ISD’s entrance into this classification. This shift is partly due to a statewide decline in public school enrollment.
- DeSoto ISD’s Classification Decision: DeSoto High School, with an enrollment of 1,932, must decide whether to remain in 5A Division I or opt up to 6A, affecting its district assignments.
- Garland ISD’s Strategy: To ensure district cohesion, Garland ISD plans to elevate five of its seven high schools to higher classifications.
Implications for Schools and Communities
The UIL realignment can significantly impact local schools and their communities:
- Competitive Balance: Changes may result in either more challenging or favorable competition based on new district placements.
- Travel Considerations: Realignment may lead to adjusted travel distances for teams and fans, resulting in varied logistical challenges.
- Community Engagement: The realignment influences local rivalries and community support, as schools compete against familiar or new adversaries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is UIL realignment?
UIL realignment is the process by which the University Interscholastic League reassigns Texas high schools into classifications and districts based on student enrollment figures, ensuring competitive balance in high school sports.
When will the UIL announce the new alignments?
The UIL is scheduled to announce the new classifications and district assignments on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 9 a.m. CST.
How does the UIL determine classifications?
Classifications are determined by student enrollment numbers. For example, schools with enrollments of 2,215 or more students are classified as 6A.
Can schools choose to move up a classification?
Yes, schools can opt up to a higher classification, typically to maintain district cohesion or for competitive reasons. For instance, DeSoto High School is considering moving from 5A Division I to 6A.
What factors influence a school’s decision to opt up?
Decisions to opt up can be influenced by factors such as maintaining district unity, competitive aspirations, and logistical considerations like travel distances.
Key Features of UIL Realignment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Classification | Schools are grouped based on enrollment numbers into classifications such as 6A, 5A, 4A, etc. |
| District Assignment | Within each classification, schools are divided into districts, often considering geographic proximity to minimize travel. |
| Snapshot Day | The day when schools submit their student enrollment numbers to the UIL, providing data for classification decisions. |
| Coaches’ Meeting | High school football coaches meet to discuss the upcoming season’s schedules, including non-district games, based on new alignments. |
| Opting Up | Schools can choose to move up a classification, typically to maintain district cohesion or for competitive reasons. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Salad and Go Closes 41 Locations Across U.S.
Dallas Schools Enhance STEM Opportunities for Girls
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
