I have come to see over several years of observation and reflection that the development of high school runners is being compromised for short term success. Obviously this is not a completely original idea, but it needs some attention. This is not just a problem among dual meets and frivolous meets, but with elite high school runners trying to peak constantly they are doing anaerobic work at young ages and limiting aerobic development. I think that it would be in America's best interest to get some great coaches together who are devoted to developing young talent. There should be places where elite runners can go to get schooling and meanwhile train with the best of their peers. The high school running system exists for participation purposes of the masses. Before dismissing this suggestion, consider that it is very common for young gymnasts, golfers, tennis players to travel and move their families to where the best coaches are. I know that top level athletes could commit to a regimen that is expected of a professional athlete. It would require an investment by some corporation/ organization, but it may dilute the colegiate eligibility. Although consiering that over racing/ training is a collegiate problem as well it might not be too crushing.
The coaches are tempted to overtrain their athletes, and they are not educated enough to develop long term talent. Patience would have to be consistently preached to athletes and it would be the way to seclude the runners from a demanding racing schedule. These are some thoughts and suggestion that should be discussed not as a far off visoion, but as a possible reality.