2 Rochester Hills Schools Closed After Mercury Found In Water

ROCHESTER, MI — Two Rochester Hills schools are closed after high levels of mercury were found in a water sample from a class science experiment. District officials announced that Van Hoosen Middle School and Rochester Adams High School would be closed Tuesday while water tests were conducted. Students were dismissed early Monday and all drinking water sources at the schools were disabled, officials said.

Supt. Robert Shaner said the district learned about the water issue from an Arizona State University laboratory manager and research professor. The professor indicated that a water sampling taken by a teacher from a science room faucet at Van Hoosen contained mercury levels significantly higher than the maximum contaminant level recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency -- 2 parts per billion.

Three water samples were tested during the science experiment conducted by teacher: one from Van Hoosen Middle School, one from Paint Creek and one from Sargent Creek. The average sampling was 56 ppb, according to the district statement. Van Hoosen and Rochester Adams schools use the same water source.

"The safety of our students is always our priority," Shaner said. "Although the tests were not conducted by certified personnel or sent to a certified lab for testing water quality, we still take these concerns very seriously."

Mercury is a naturally occurring chemical element that when released into the air can settle in bodies of water. Exposure can cause loss of peripheral vision, lack of coordination of movement, impairment of speech, hearing loss or walking and muscle weakness, according to the EPA.

The district expects the results back on Tuesday.

Image via Shutterstock

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