More Fountains With High Lead Levels Detected at Newton School

NEWTON, MA - Additional testing ordered at Burr Elementary School after high lead levels were found in a drinking fountain revealed that five of the school's seven fountains had higher-than-recommended levels of lead.

Burr Elementary principal Mindy Johal sent a letter to families on Wednesday informing them of the findings.

"Officials from the City are working in the school to identify the source," Johal wrote. "Once identified, they will be able to develop a remediation plan to ensure safe drinking water in our fountains. Please know that the school is working with City officials to remedy this issue as quickly as possible."

High lead levels were also detected in the pipes connecting to the fountains, according to the letter.

Johal added that bottled water will be provided to students, staff and visitors until the end of the school year.

In May, lead testing throughout the Newton school system revealed high lead levels in one fountain at Burr Elementary, prompting further testing at the school.

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends drinking water with lead concentrations of no more than 15 parts per billion.

A community meeting is scheduled for Mon., June 13 at 7:30 p.m. at which city, building, school, and health officials will be available to answer questions.

>> Photo credit r. nial bradshaw via Flickr/Creative Commons