We are working on a new streamlined registration system, coming soon!
We are working on a new streamlined registration system, coming soon!
The FY26 Rulebook has been updated to formally codify standard operating procedures for scoring inquiries and judge interactions. These updates ensure transparency and consistency across all events. Scoring Inquiry and Correction Policy This policy clarifies our protocol for investigating scoring irregularities and puts it in writing to ensure all issues are handled through the proper channels. The full policy text is available in the FY26 Rulebook, please read the full policy in the rulebook. Only Chapter Advisors may submit inquiries regarding scoring. All requests must be sent to [email protected] within 5 business days of the event. Judge Communication & Competitive Integrity Strict guidelines now govern interactions between participants and judges to maintain competitive fairness and protect our volunteers. The full policy text is available in the FY26 Rulebook. Advisors, students, and parents are strictly prohibited from contacting judges regarding scoring results, placements, or feedback. Judges are volunteers who dedicate their time solely to the conference; they do not consent to unsolicited communication regarding their decisions once the event has concluded. Attempting to determine the identity of a judge (if not explicitly known) for the purpose of challenging results, obtaining insight into a judge's preferences or specific scoring methodology, or any other reason that compromises the integrity of the event is prohibited. Receiving private feedback or explanations from a judge constitutes a Competitive Integrity Violation. Obtaining insight into a judge's preferences or specific scoring methodology outside of the official feedback provided to all teams creates an unfair advantage for future competitions (e.g., advancing from Regionals to State, or future years). Communication is permitted only if a judge explicitly and personally invites a student to reach out (e.g., for mentorship or professional networking). In this instance, the student must still obtain approval from their Chapter Advisor and parent/guardian before engaging. This exception does not authorize the discussion of specific scoring decisions from the recent competition.
Connor Winston
Feb 17, 2026
Guidelines for this year's drone events have been finalized and published. We apologize for the delay in releasing this information so close to the start of Regional Conferences. There are two separate exhibition events available this year, both are available at regional conferences and the state conference: XRDS Drone Search and Rescue (Scored) XSDN Drone NIST (Timed) Participation & Registration Chapter Limit: Each chapter may submit one (1) team of two (2) students for each event. Exhibition Status: These events do not count toward the standard two-competition limit per student. How to Register: Students must be registered in myTPSA. Select "XRDS Drone Search and Rescue" or "XSDN Drone NIST" in the competition section. State Conference: Qualification is not required for the State Conference. There is no advancement process based on Regional placement or scores. Registration for these events at State is open to all chapters. Mandatory Requirements Certification: Competitors must be FAA TRUST Certified (free). Advisors must upload these certificates for team members prior to arriving at the competition. Equipment: Teams must bring their own drones. Specific requirements are detailed in the newly published event guidelines. If you have questions or need help, reply to this email or contact [email protected].
Cory Lemons
Dec 22, 2025
If you have competitors in the Fire Service Public Service Announcement event, please read and review the below instructions on how to submit the PSA videos prior to the conference. This is a prepared event. There is no in-person presentation at the conference. All video entries are judged prior to the competition per the guidelines. Submission Timeline Specific deadlines with exact dates/times are available in myTPSA Opens: The day following the close of late registration. Closes: 7 days prior to the first day of the conference. Submission Instructions Ensure all entries are uploaded before the submission window closes. Once the window is closed, no more submissions will be accepted. Video files must be uploaded by the advisor through myTPSA: Navigate to the specific Conference page in myTPSA. Select "Submissions" in the navigation bar. Review the specific upload requirements and exact deadlines listed within the portal.
Melissa Hollingsworth
Dec 22, 2025
An updated Version 3 of the Opening/Closing Statement case packet has been uploaded to the TPSA website. Please discard previous versions and download the current file to ensure accuracy. The following corrections have been made: Page 27 (Charges): Count II, Tampering with Physical Evidence, has been corrected to a 2nd-degree felony pursuant to Texas Penal Code § 37.09 (c). Page 28 (Names): Ranger names have been corrected to ensure consistency with Pages 4 and 6. Pages 58 (DNA Evidence): Text has been updated to clarify that there were no additional DNA contributors beyond the single-source profile that did not match the victim. All competitors and advisors should reprint the case to ensure your teams are working from the corrected information. https://texaspublicsafetyassociation.org/closing-argument https://texaspublicsafetyassociation.org/opening-statement Please make sure you and your competitors are using the revised documents moving forward. If you have questions or need help, reply to this email or contact [email protected].
Kira Hassler Newsom
Dec 21, 2025
TPSA is committed to creating and maintaining a healthy and respectful environment for all of our members. Our philosophy is to ensure all members, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status are treated equally and respectfully. Any behavior in the form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying will not be tolerated. It is the responsibility of all members to uphold and contribute to this climate.