It looks like Alexander Central will be heading back to 4A when the North Carolina High School Athletic Association rolls out the next statewide realignment. Preliminary reports show the Cougars going back to the 4A classification along with fellow conference member Watauga.
AC had dropped to 3A in the last realignment in 2016 after competing on the 4A level. No conference pairings have been announced but they are expected on Thursday, December 10th.
With the Cougars going back to 4A, it means they would almost certainly be in a conference with Watauga, and South Caldwell. With three Asheville area schools also returning to 4A (AC Reynolds, Asheville, TC Roberson) McDowell could possibly be placed in a conference with them and other 3A schools in Buncombe County.
Some area High Schools that are also changing classification include
Ashe County from 2A to 3A
Draughn from 2A to 1A
East Lincoln from 2A to 3A
Hibriten from 2A to 3A
South Iredell from 3A to 4A
West Iredell from 2A to 3A