HONOLULU -- An official from the Kamehameha school district has confirmed that the U.S. Supreme Court justices have scheduled a private conference for Friday to determine whether they will examine a legal challenge against the schools' Hawaiians-first admissions policy.

If the case is accepted, it would be the first time the justices would have the matter on their docket.

If they decide against taking the case, it would mean that a ruling by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in favor of the admissions policy would stand.

If the high court takes up the case, it could set the stage for one of the most significant court actions in years involving native Hawaiians.