K-State Athletic Teams Rated Highly In The Classroom By NCAA

Working to demonstrate its commitment to the holistic component of what it means to develop a student athlete, four K-State athletic teams led the Big 12 this year in the NCAA’s Academic Progress Rate (APR) metric. The APR, which is calculated by a program’s eligibility numbers and retention and graduation rates, is important in avoiding sanctions by the NCAA. According to the website, the following rules are being implemented:

"Beginning with 2012-13 championships, teams must earn a minimum 900 four-year APR or a 930 average over the most recent two years to be eligible to participate. For 2014-15 championships, teams must earn a 930 four-year average APR or a 940 average over the most recent two years to participate in championships. In 2015-16 and beyond, teams must earn a four-year APR of 930 to compete in championships."

With a perfect score of 1,000, the men’s cross country and golf, as well as the women’s golf teams led the Big 12 this year. In addition, the traditionally academically strong women’s basketball team led the Big 12 with a score of 990.

Notably, the football team’s score of 948 was barely below the NCAA average of 949. The basketball team exceeded the national average, scoring 964 compared to 952 nationally. Overall, the school turned in a cumulative score of 969. The lowest score of any sport was 944 for the men’s track and field team.

While it’s impossible to predict whether a student will transfer, it’s important the school work with students to maintain eligibility throughout the year and leave campus with a diploma in hand. K-State has done an excellent job of ensuring every program stands well above the minimum and doesn’t put any team in danger. These scores represent numbers from the 2011-12 academic year, which are the most up-to-date numbers. The Iowa State (928) and Oklahoma State (926) football teams are in the clear for 2011-12, but will need to improve their programs’ standings going forward. Texas A&M’s basketball team (912) is the lowest team score I was able to identify with a quick perusal of the numbers. Texas A&M is now playing in the SEC. I assure you, those last two statements in no way reflect on or suggest The Jug’s view of the SEC.