Elevated lead levels were discovered in water fountains and faucets across multiple schools in the Oakland Unified School District, prompting concerns about communication delays.
Thao Nguyen reports for USA TODAY.
In short:
- Nearly 17% of the 1,083 faucets and fountains tested exceeded the district’s strict lead limit of 5 ppb.
- The district has removed fixtures with elevated lead levels and is retesting them to ensure compliance.
- Parents and staff expressed frustration over delayed notification of the lead contamination, which began in April.
Key quote:
"We are demanding safe drinking water for our students immediately."
— Catherine Cotter, Frick Academy counselor
Why this matters:
Lead exposure, especially in children, can cause irreversible health damage, impacting cognitive development and behavior. The situation highlights the need for prompt communication and swift action in safeguarding public health.
Related: Report: 91% of Pennsylvania schools that tested drinking water found lead—only 9% removed it
