New York State Public High School Athletic Association NYSPHSAAAnnounces 2023-2024 Schools of Distinction and Excellence NYSPHSAA
LATHAM, NY – The New York State Public High School Athletic Association Inc. (NYSPHSAA) announces the 2023-2024 Schools of
Distinction and Excellence.
The purpose of the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards are to unite athletic departments in
challenging their teams to achieve a statewide academic honor. This year, 114 schools earned the School of Distinction Award and 226
schools earned the School of Excellence Award. Both of these numbers have increased since the 2022-2023 school year, which were 84
schools and 219 schools, respectively.
“The efforts made by student-athletes in the classroom are paramount to their success in the athletic
arena, and beyond their high school days,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “We are proud of those who put in the work
as ‘student’ and ‘athlete’, as well as the growth in both of School of Excellence and Distinction recognition.”
Schools can apply for School of Distinction status if 100% of their varsity teams qualify for and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award during their respective sports seasons. To apply for the School of Excellence Award, 75% of a school’s varsity teams must qualify and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award.
Winning schools will receive their commemorative awards at their local athletic director workshop this fall.
NYSPHSAA’s Scholar-Athlete team award was initiated in 1991-92 school year. The School of Distinction Award was established in 2002-03 while the School of Excellence Award began in 2016-17. All awards are sponsored by Pupil Benefits Plan. Copyright ©2024 New York State Public High School Athletic Association
