Lead Levels High at Davis School in New Rochelle

NEW ROCHELLE, NY - High lead levels have been found in several sinks and drinking fountains at George Davis Elementary School.

A post on the City School District of New Rochelle website said that the district decided to test its water because of widely reported stories of elevated lead levels in Newark, NJ schools.

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One initial water sample collected from a drinking fountain near the stage door of the Davis School tested above the EPA’s recommended action level of 20 parts per billion for lead in drinking water.

The district said because of that result the water sources were closed off and more extensive testing of the school’s water was conducted.

Five other drinking fountains in a wing of the school were found to have lead levels above 20 parts per billion.

A second test found the same results.

District officials said water fountains and classroom sinks in that wing remain off, with bottled and portable water being provided for students and staff.

The county health department has reviewed the sampling results and has offered engineering and lead expertise.

District officials are working with the county to determine what further sampling and further action should be taken to identify problematic drinking fountains and faucets that should no longer be used.

The district’s Environmental Services Department and environmental consultants are working with the county to establish procedures for regular water testing on an ongoing basis.

For the latest water testing information and to see the letter sent to parents, go to the school district’s website here.

Photo credit: Google Maps.