Prime Prep departs from the UIL

Controversial charter school Prime Prep Academy announced Wednesday its withdrawal from all athletic programs in the UIL.

Based on its newly established “Independent” status, Prime Prep Academy athletic teams are eligible to compete within a local/national schedule and accept transfer student-athletes who meet the required academic standards for participation-- forgoing the previously sanctioned waiting period which was enforced under the governance of the UIL.

“It is important for us as an institution to be able to aid in the growth of well-rounded young adults and provide a greater opportunity for our students to attain collegiate scholarships and grants. Being independent allows us to play anyone, which ultimately means we can go out and play the best of the best giving our athletes the exposure they deserve," co-founder and Pro Football Hall of Famer, Deion Sanders said in a prepared statement.

Here's the letter to the UIL:

Attention: University Interscholastic League This correspondence serves as official notification of the decision of Prime Prep Academy to withdraw its membership in the University Interscholastic League (UIL) effective immediately. On November 28, 2012, the Prime Prep Academy Governance Board voted to dissolve the relationship with UIL. The board determined it was in the best interest of our students to pursue an independent athletic competition schedule due to the lack of cooperation, support and fair treatment from District 11-3A.

After repeated attempts to work amicably with our new district partners, it became increasingly obvious that the vision of Prime Prep Academy to offer its student body a uniquely fulfilling and well-rounded academic and extra-curricular experience could not be completely achieved through this UIL relationship. Although there may be opportunities to revisit this alliance in the future, it is the determination of the Prime Prep Academy Governance Board and Executive Team to forge an exciting new path for its entire student body aimed at increasing collegiate exposure and scholarship opportunities.

Respectfully Submitted,

DL Wallace, Executive Director Prime Prep Academy

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