Last evening, our leadership team was notified by the Department of Education (DOE) that they received updated guidance from the EPA related to the lead water testing results. This guidance lowered the original threshold indicated for action. We are now being advised to shut down additional fixtures while discussions continue. Below is the list of the fixtures that were identified yesterday.
All of the fixtures in yellow had previously been identified as elevated in an earlier list provided by the Division of Public Health (DPH) however, there was no action required or recommended for these fixtures until yesterday. The unhighlighted fixtures shown for N3 (formerly Wallin) tested above the initial threshold and were shut down earlier this year as was recommended. Please also note that there are multiple test dates for the same fixtures included in this list.
Additionally, we do not know at this time which fixture at McCullough had the new elevated reading. We are working with DPH to confirm this as soon as possible. We are also discussing the impact of these actions on the operation of the buildings and will be putting plans together to ensure minimal disruptions to staff and students wherever possible.
We will continue to follow the guidance of the DPH and DOE on this issue and as always will keep you apprised of any updated information. We understand state officials are also working on communication related to this new guidance that is impacting schools statewide, however, we wanted to make you aware of this important development as soon as possible.
The safety and well-being of students and staff remain a top priority in Colonial Nation.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey D. Menzer, Ed.D.
Superintendent Colonial School District
