---
title: Community Rallies Behind Beloved Athletic Trainer's Dismissal
description: Windsor Locks rallies to reinstate Athletic Trainer Miss Patty, whose dismissal sparked a petition highlighting her dedication to student' well-being and recovery.
image: https://blog.healthyroster.com/hubfs/Athletic%20Training%20And%20Sports%20Medicine%20News-1.jpg
---

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 June 23, 2026

# Community Rallies Behind Beloved Athletic Trainer's Dismissal

![Picture of Tim Clark](https://blog.healthyroster.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Tim%20Clark.jpg?width=50&name=Tim%20Clark.jpg) By  [ Tim Clark ](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/author/tim-clark)  ·   1 minute read

![Articles for Athletic Trainers and News Stories](https://blog.healthyroster.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Athletic%20Training%20News%20and%20Articles%20-%20Small.png?width=500&height=150&name=Athletic%20Training%20News%20and%20Articles%20-%20Small.png)Windsor Locks High School in Connecticut is at the center of a growing online movement following the abrupt dismissal of Patricia “Miss Patty” Taylor, the school’s Athletic Trainer for over seven years.

 <https://patch.com/connecticut/windsorlocks/petition-calls-reinstatement-windsor-locks-athletic-trainer>Known for her dedication to student-athletes both on and off the field, Taylor's sudden departure has sparked an online petition and an outpouring of support from the community.

Superintendent of Schools Shawn Parkhurst declined to comment on the matter, citing it as a “confidential personnel matter.”

However, Benjamin Palmer, the senior class president and organizer of the petition on Change.org, described Taylor as “an unsung hero” whose influence extended far beyond physical therapy.

*“Patty was an invaluable part of our school community, a mentor, motivator, and advocate for student well-being. Her dismissal has distressed countless students.”*

Within 24 hours of its creation, the petition gathered nearly 850 signatures, with heartfelt comments pouring in from students, parents, and alumni.

*“Patty was almost like a second mom to most of us athletes,” wrote one supporter. “We couldn’t have made it this far in athletics without her help!”*

*Another parent noted, “Her care went beyond the typical job. She kept our athletes safe and treated them with unmatched kindness and respect.”*

The comments highlight Taylor’s unique ability to connect with students, foster their recovery, and prioritize their mental and physical well-being.

As the petition gains momentum, the community’s message is clear: Miss Patty’s impact on Windsor Locks High School goes far beyond the sidelines, and her presence is deeply missed.

Check out the full story and all their quotes [here](https://patch.com/connecticut/windsorlocks/petition-calls-reinstatement-windsor-locks-athletic-trainer)! 

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