From the MHSAA
Student athletes in Newberry and Brimley will be competing in a higher classification beginning with the 2026-27 school year, as both schools are moving up from Class D to Class C under the latest Michigan High School Athletic Association enrollment classifications.
The MHSAA announced the new classifications this week based on student enrollment figures collected in February. Schools are placed into classes based on enrollment numbers and then divided as evenly as possible across the state.
Newberry and Brimley were among seven schools statewide moving up from Class D into Class C. The change reflects enrollment increases that pushed both schools above the Class D threshold.
The move means the Indians and Bays will now compete against generally larger schools in postseason tournament play and MHSAA elections. However, the classification change does not necessarily mean immediate changes in all regular season schedules, which are often determined by local conferences.
Newberry has seen strong athletic success in recent years, particularly in track and field. The Newberry boys team recently captured back-to-back Upper Peninsula Division 3 championships and is also scheduled to move up to Division 2 competition in 2027.
Brimley also continues to maintain competitive athletic programs across multiple sports.
Statewide, a total of 20 schools moved up in class while 18 schools moved down for the upcoming school year.
How MHSAA class sizes work
The MHSAA uses four traditional classes — Class A, Class B, Class C and Class D — which are determined strictly by student enrollment. Schools are ranked by size and then divided into roughly equal groups.
For the 2026-27 school year, the classifications are:
• Class A: 783 students and above
• Class B: 358 to 782 students
• Class C: 167 to 357 students
• Class D: 166 students and below
Each class contains approximately the same number of schools statewide, with 188 schools in Class A and 189 schools each in Classes B, C and D.
These classifications are primarily used for administrative purposes such as MHSAA elections, while postseason tournament divisions may vary by sport depending on participation numbers.
Schools also have the option to voluntarily compete in a higher classification for at least two years if they choose to do so.
With their move to Class C, both Newberry and Brimley will now be grouped with mid-sized schools across Michigan, marking a notable shift for two Eastern Upper Peninsula districts.
