Development Academy

In Oregon, under the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) rules, students who attend online school, homeschool, or virtual public charter programs are allowed to participate in high school sports. This is governed primarily by OSAA Rule 8.2 (Home Schooled Students). Under this rule, these students must compete for the public high school located within their residential attendance boundary. In other words, eligibility is based on where the student lives, not which online program they attend.

Residency is a central requirement under OSAA Rule 8.2.1, which states that a homeschooled or online student is eligible only at the school in the attendance area in which they reside. OSAA strictly enforces this rule, meaning students cannot choose a different school for athletic participation unless they qualify under a separate transfer rule.

Instead of meeting standard academic eligibility through GPA or credits, online and homeschooled students must meet the requirements outlined in OSAA Rule 8.2.2. This includes achieving a minimum score at or above the 23rd percentile on a nationally standardized achievement test. This replaces the typical OSAA scholastic eligibility standards used for traditionally enrolled students.

Even though these students may not attend classes at the school, OSAA Rule 8.2 makes clear that they are held to the same participation expectations as enrolled students. This includes attending practices, following team and school rules, and earning a position through tryouts.

Students must also comply with Oregon state education requirements for their schooling type, and they remain subject to general OSAA eligibility rules such as the eight consecutive semesters rule (OSAA Rule 8.1.1) and age limitations (OSAA Rule 8.1.2).

Overall, OSAA rules, especially Rule 8.2, allow flexibility in educational choice while maintaining fairness in athletic participation. Online and homeschooled students can compete in high school sports, but only through their local public school and in full compliance with OSAA eligibility standards.

The Structured Academic Block runs Monday–Friday from 8:30–11:00 AM and serves as a dedicated, distraction-free environment where athletes actively engage in their academic responsibilities. This time is intentionally structured and supervised to ensure athletes are completing assignments, preparing for assessments, and developing effective study habits. Emphasis is placed on focus, time management, and accountability, creating a consistent routine that mirrors a high-level academic setting while helping athletes stay ahead and perform at a high level in the classroom.

Athletes complete coursework from their NCAA accredited online academic program. The Academy supports a variety of academic paths while ensuring athletes remain accountable and on track.

Yes. Athletes are monitored and guided to ensure they stay focused, use their time effectively, and maintain progress in all academic responsibilities.

No. Cell phones are not permitted during the Academic Block to maintain a focused and productive learning environment.

Athletes must maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA to participate in daily baseball activities.

Academic performance is reviewed regularly. If an athlete falls below a 3.5 GPA, they will be temporarily removed from baseball activities until their GPA returns to the required level.

Academic progress is monitored through regular check-ins, ensuring athletes stay accountable and continue progressing in their coursework, with this process serving as a shared partnership between the Northwest Nationals staff, the athlete, and their parents.

Yes. While athletes are expected to take ownership of their education, guidance and support are provided to help them stay organized, manage time effectively, and address challenges as they arise. When additional support is needed, we work in partnership with parents to coordinate tutor resources and ensure each athlete has the tools necessary to succeed academically.

Yes. Laptops and tablets are allowed for academic purposes only during the Structured Academic Block.

While the academy may not provide full-time tutoring services, we are committed to supporting each athlete’s academic success. We can help connect families with trusted tutoring resources, school support programs, or academic advisors when needed. If a student is struggling, we work with the family to create a plan that prioritizes improvement and accountability.

We understand that balancing academics and athletics is one of the biggest challenges for student-athletes. Our scheduling is designed with this in mind, keeping training efficient and purposeful so athletes have time to focus on schoolwork. We emphasize time management, organization, and personal responsibility as key life skills. We also encourage open communication with families, if academic demands increase, we expect athletes to prioritize school and adjust training when necessary.

Yes. Athletes have the option to attend only the baseball portion of the Academy and may arrive at 11:00 AM if they are completing their academic work independently at home. This flexible option is designed for families who prefer to manage academics outside of the program while still allowing the athlete to fully participate in daily training. While the Structured Academic Block is a key component of the Academy, athletes who opt out are still expected to stay accountable in their coursework and maintain strong academic standing.