The six schools of the Southeast Conference have released a joint statement addressing Iowa’s recently enacted law allowing eighth-grade students to participate in high school athletics, saying they are actively reviewing the legislation and working to develop updated policies.
Iowa House File 2591, which allows eighth graders to compete in high school athletics, has prompted questions from families, students, coaches, and communities across the state. The Southeast Conference — which includes Burlington, Fairfield, Fort Madison, Keokuk, Mount Pleasant, and Washington — said its activities directors are working collaboratively alongside superintendents to present updated policies to their respective boards.
The conference was clear that no blanket policy automatically placing all eighth-grade students at the high school level will be implemented. Instead, each school’s approach will be developed with the best interests of student-athletes and athletic programs in mind.
While the process is ongoing, the conference is encouraging families to review a Frequently Asked Questions document developed jointly by the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union and the Iowa High School Athletic Association, which addresses common questions about eligibility, participation, and implementation. That resource is available at the IGHSAU and IHSAA websites.
Families with specific questions are encouraged to contact their school’s activities director. SEC activities directors include Jay Huff at Burlington, Jeff Courtright at Fairfield, Jeff Lamb at Fort Madison, Jared Johnston at Keokuk, Scot Lamm at Mount Pleasant, and Nathan Miller at Washington.
