District reports lead test findings, outlines two-phase remediation plan and retesting

District staff told the board that New York State Education Department testing requirements and lowered action levels prompted recent lead testing in district water outlets. The district reported that several fixtures used to access water required remediation or removal; district staff said no drinking fountains were identified as requiring restriction.

The district described a two-phase remediation plan: first, replace fixtures that can be replaced now and post signage on fixtures identified as not for drinking; second, replace remaining fixtures and follow up with retesting. Staff explained that the testing protocol is typically a first-draw sample (water that has sat in a fixture), which can indicate lead originating in the fixture, and that replacement followed by retesting will determine whether fixture replacement resolves the readings.

Board members asked about timing, signage and communication with families. A district staff member indicated the district can retest "whenever we want to" after replacements and that the maintenance team has already replaced some kitchen fixtures and is ordering additional fixtures for other areas. The district said it will post results and timelines on the district website and notify families.

Facilities committee minutes reported that the state lowered acceptable levels for lead testing (noted in the meeting as a drop from 15 parts per billion to approximately 5.5 parts per billion) and that the district had posted results to the website. The district also said it will provide signs in English and Spanish and include pictograms at restricted fixtures and that staff will work with teachers to communicate to students.