Department Personnel

Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
Debra Pintar
469-742-4070

dpintar@mckinneyisd.net

Dear McKinney ISD Parents and Staff,

Cell Phones - a Blessing and a Curse!

We all know that we are in the "wireless communications age" and it has become nearly impossible for us to survive without our cell phones. However, as statistics show, we become distracted and less focused on our surroundings when simultaneously talking on cell phones and driving. Some states have gone as far as banning the use of cell phones while operating a motor vehicle unless utilizing a "hands-free" device. This does not necessarily solve the problem as it is your mind that is distracted when speaking on the cell phone, whether using a "hands free" device or not.

I mention all of this to ask for your assistance. We are seeing more and more of our parents driving into our school
zones and student pick-up areas (particularly at the elementary and middle school levels) while talking on their cell
phones. Recently, we have had some near misses at several campuses because drivers were distracted while speaking on their cell phone in a school zone.

Is the conversation you are having so important that it is worth taking the chance on injuring a child? I for one am not willing to wait until one of our precious children is injured, or worse, in a school zone or pick-up area to act on this issue.

We are beginning a campaign asking for your cooperation in improving safety at our campuses. Unless it is an absolute emergency, please do not use your cell phone in McKinney ISD school zones. I am old enough to remember when we survived without instant communications. Many of you can relate and we greatly appreciate your help in keeping our kids safe.

With Deepest Respect,


Tom Crowe
McKinney ISD Superintendent of Schools