The Inter-High League was renamed the DCIAA in 1989 to bring the District of Columbia in line with other states with interscholastic athletic programs.

The DCIAA sponsors high school varsity competition in eight boys', ten girls' and four co-ed sanctioned sports.

The biggest and most-celebrated DCIAA sport, the football champion of the Stars Division is decided in the annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving Day.

The DCIAA sponsors elementary school varsity competition in four boys', four girls' and three co-ed sanctioned sports.

The DCIAA sponsors opportunity league academy varsity competition in two boys', two girls' and one co-ed sanctioned sports.