The TSSAA's Legislative Council voted unanimously Wednesday to approve a proposal for a total public-private split.
The decision comes 21 years after the state's high school sports governing body created a separate division for schools that offer need-based financial aid. Since then, private schools had been given the option of remaining in public-school Division I by not giving financial aid and having their enrollment multiplied.
Most private schools had moved to Division II beginning this school year, but the new proposal essentially takes away any remaining option and will mandate a complete split.
The proposal goes into effect during the 2019-20 school year. Both public and private schools are permitted to play each other in the regular season but will be split in postseason play.
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293.