Wilmeth parents urge McKinney ISD to replace damaged slide, improve soccer field and add inclusive playground features

A parent from Wilmeth Elementary told the McKinney ISD board Monday that playground equipment and outdoor fields at her child’s campus need immediate repairs and upgrades to keep students safe and ensure inclusive access.

Daphne Weinroth urged trustees to “prioritize critical repairs and improvements” at Wilmeth, saying a slide has developed multiple holes and previous patches have failed. Weinroth said the district had removed wood chips and installed rubber surfacing over the summer, but the damaged slide remained in place and was now jagged enough to tear clothing or cause injury. She said the district’s only current mitigation was caution tape restricting use.

Weinroth also described a soccer field that turns into a muddy mess without irrigation, creating uneven terrain and trip hazards. She recommended installing irrigation or exploring artificial turf and asked that larger playground remodels include features for children with physical disabilities so wheelchair users can participate.

During the meeting’s written-reports portion, administrators reported they had already reached out to a supplier; staff said a replacement slide had been ordered for another campus and estimated a 4–5 week delivery window. The district indicated it would obtain bids and proceed with replacement, and noted that options such as artificial turf would require a long-term, districtwide plan and significant funding.

No formal board action was taken Monday; trustees asked staff to follow up with the campus and keep the PTA and principal informed.