Community Starts Online Petition to Have Dismissed HS Athletic Trainer Reinstated

Community members in Windsor Locks Conn., have started an online petition to have a high school athletic trainer reinstated after she was recently dismissed. 

According to Patch.com, Patricia Taylor has been the athletic trainer for over seven years at Windsor Locks High School. Though Superintendent of Schools Shawn Parkhurst told Patch Taylor's departure is a "confidential personnel matter that I cannot comment on at this time," a petition calling for Taylor's reinstatement has been formed on Change.org.

"As someone who's greatly impacted the lives of thousands of students, Patty's presence in the school community was invaluable," write Benjamin Palmer, the organizer of the petition. "Often spending her afternoon and late evenings at WLHS, Patty was an unsung hero at the school helping students with more than just physical therapy. Unfortunately, her abrupt dismissal has distressed many students, for whom she served as an influence, mentor, and motivator. By signing this petition, we request the school administration to reconsider their decision, reinstating her and recognizing her contribution to the development of our school's athletic department."

The petition had garnered more than 850 signatures in less than 24 hours. 

"Ms P has inspired positivity in many of my peers. While this instance of conduct may not comply with district or state standards it should serve as an example of her advocacy for students’ wellbeing and safety, and can easily be corrected with a less cruel discipline," wrote one person who had signed the petition. "Please consider reinstating her position to continue inspiration within our sports department and youth."