During the Board of Education meeting for Howard County Public Schools on January 30, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the ongoing shortage of athletic trainers in the county. A parent addressed the board, highlighting the critical nature of this issue and referencing a previous acknowledgment by the former superintendent about the need for more trainers.

Two years ago, the former superintendent had earmarked $540,000 to hire 13 full-time athletic trainers. However, this funding was not included in the final budget, leaving the county reliant on just seven contracted trainers who are stretched thin across 13 high schools. Superintendent Michael Barnes reiterated the district's struggles during his budget presentation, stating, "We continue to remain behind our other districts who have hired full-time trainers to attend to the safety and care of students participating in athletics and other school-based activities."

The discussion underscored the urgent need for the board to address the athletic training shortage to ensure the safety and well-being of student-athletes. The board's response to these concerns and any potential actions to rectify the situation remain to be seen as they move forward with budget considerations.