When racers reach the U16 age group, they can start earning USSA national points. These points are used to determine race start positions in SARA and national (post-season) events. USSA points are NOT used to determine the SARA Champions and State Team.
For more information about USSA points, there is a complete explanation at Points Explanation, The Race Points Mystery on the “Far West Skiing” website.
This link also has additional information.
You can also refer to chapter 2 of the USSA Alpine Competition Guide.