State Associations

A National–State Partnership Built for Schools

The National High School BBQ Association® (NHSBBQA®) operates through a network of State High School BBQ Associations that function as licensed divisions of the national organization.

State associations exist to support schools locally while operating under national governance, standards, and oversight.

What Is a State High School BBQ Association?

A State High School BBQ Association is an authorized educational division of NHSBBQA® that:

• Supports participating schools within a specific state

• Coordinates state-level educational programs and events

• Helps schools implement curriculum and program standards

• Serves as a liaison between schools and the national organization

State associations do not operate independently and do not own NHSBBQA® trademarks.

Licensed Division — Not an Independent Organization

Each state association operates as a licensed division of NHSBBQA®.

This means:

• NHSBBQA® retains ownership of all trademarks and branding

• State associations operate under national governance

• Authority flows from the national level to the state level

• Programs must meet national safety and educational standards

State associations may not represent themselves as the national governing body or authorize programs outside national standards.

Role of State Associations

State associations typically:

• Assist schools with onboarding and program alignment

• Support educator communication and collaboration

• Help coordinate approved state-level activities or events

• Monitor compliance with national standards at the state level

State associations support and coordinate — they do not replace school or district authority.

Relationship to Schools & Districts

Schools and districts:

• Participate through direct educational approval

• Retain full local control over curriculum, staffing, and students

• Are not governed by state associations in place of districts

State associations provide support and coordination, while schools remain school-led and district-approved.

Oversight & Accountability

NHSBBQA® maintains national oversight authority over all state associations.

This includes the ability to:

• Review state association operations

• Require compliance with national standards

• Suspend or revoke authorization if standards are not met

This oversight ensures consistency, safety, and integrity across all states.

Not a Franchise. Not a Commercial Model.

State High School BBQ Associations:

• Are educational divisions, not franchises

• Do not operate as for-profit enterprises

• Do not sell business opportunities

• Do not hold exclusive commercial rights

All activities are educational in nature and aligned with public-school participation.

Why This Structure Matters

This national–state model ensures:

• Clear authority and accountability

• Consistent safety and educational standards

• Protection for schools and districts

• Trust for families, sponsors, and communities

It allows NHSBBQA® programs to scale nationally while remaining school-safe and district-legal.

A Simple Explanation

“State associations operate as licensed divisions of a national educational organization, supporting schools locally while following national standards.”

Looking for Your State Association?

Visit your state’s page to learn more about local support, approved programs, and school participation.

[View State Associations]