The Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association (MPSSAA), under the direction of the governor, state superintendent of schools and state board of education, determines the sports seasons. As members of the MPSSAA, HCPSS sports operate within the confines of the designated seasons. However, once seasons are established, based on Howard County health guidelines and HCPSS operating procedures, HCPSS will determine the timeline for entering the various risk levels of activities, per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and MPSSAA guidance.