The executive committee of the Virginia High School League has approved the new six-classification group structure for high schools in the state.

The new six-class system, which takes effect starting with the 2013-14 school year, will replace the VHSL's current three-group format. The new format includes Albemarle and Orange County both moving to the Jefferson District, thanks to realignment based on geography rather than enrollment.

Teams from different classes will compete in the same district, a change from the current VHSL format. Albemarle and Orange will join the six current Jefferson District teams -- Charlottesville, Fluvanna County, Louisa County, Monticello, Powhatan, and Western Albemarle.

Albemarle and Orange are the only two Jefferson District teams classified as Class 5A teams. Four others -- Charlottesville, Fluvanna County, Louisa County, and Powhatan -- will compete as Class 4A teams. Monticello and Western Albemarle will be Class 3A schools.

The new VHSL alignment also includes William Monroe (Class 3A) and Madison County (Class 2A) remaining in the Bull Run District; Buckingham County and Goochland both staying in the James River District as Class 2A schools; and Nelson County remaining in the Dogwood District as a Class 2A school.

Playoff brackets for each sport will be based on a school's class, with performance in district games no longer being a factor. Conference and sectional tournaments (against teams from the same class) will replace the state's current district and regional tournament model.