State-Level Implementation of Health and Safety Policies in Mississippi Secondary Schools

Authors

• Heather L. Shirley, University of MississippiFollow
• Valerie J. Moody, University of Montana - MissoulaFollow

Abstract

Background: State-level investigations of health and safety policy implementation in secondary school athletics highlight ongoing challenges in ensuring student-athlete safety that aligns with evidence-based best practices. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine current state-level implementation of health and safety policies in Mississippi secondary schools from the perspective of athletics/activities directors, athletic trainers, and other school administrators. Methods: In May 2025, a 26-item web-based questionnaire was distributed to 226 athletic directors and 114 athletic trainers across Mississippi secondary schools. The survey assessed participant demographics, access to healthcare resources, emergency action planning (EAP), required coaches’ health and safety training, and policies related to concussion, heat illness, and conditioning, as well as barriers to implementation. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and chi-square analyses were used to identify group differences in athletic trainer access and presence of EAPs. Results: A total of 120 responses were received (athletic directors, 67%; athletic trainers, 20%; unidentified, 13%), representing all high school classifications (1A-7A) and districts (I-VIII). Findings indicated that most Mississippi secondary schools reported access to athletic trainers, proximity to hospitals within 15 miles, and implementation of core safety policies and equipment. Overall, these results suggest alignment with national trends showing gradual improvement in secondary school sport safety infrastructure. Conclusion: This grassroots evaluation provides insight into the current landscape of health and safety policies implementation in Mississippi secondary schools and identifies areas where additional support, resources, and policy development are needed. Recommendations: Findings underscore the importance of continued education and resource dissemination to school administrators and athletic personnel to promote evidence-based safety practices and optimize athlete protection statewide.

Author Bio(s)

Heather L. Shirley, PhD, LAT, ATC, LMT, is an Assistant Professor in Athletic Training in the Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, MS.

Valerie Moody, PhD, LAT, ATC, CSCS, is Chair & Professor of Integrative Physiology & Athletic Training, Program Director of the Master of Athletic Training Program, and Director of the Montana Youth Sports Safety Institute at the University of Montana in Missoula, MT.

Recommended Citation

Shirley HL, Moody VJ. State-Level Implementation of Health and Safety Policies in Mississippi Secondary Schools. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2026 Sep 01;24(3), Article 14.