This study was designed to investigate the influence of student participation in extracurricular activities, as perceived by rural high school principals, with successful extracurricular programs. Participating principals were asked about their perceptions on the influence of student participation in extracurricular activities on student attendance, academic achievement, student behavior, and other benefits experienced by students. Using direct interview methods data were collected from five principals of schools identified as having successful extracurricular programs, based on their schools standings in the University Interscholastic Leagues Lone Star Cup points from the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 school years. Once the interviews of the principals' were conducted the responses were and organized into themes. The findings suggested that student participation in extracurricular programs has a positive influence on the student's attendance, behavior, and academic achievement. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]