Elevate your local knowledge

Sign up for the iNFOnews newsletter today!

Select Region

Selecting your primary region ensures you get the stories that matter to you first.

Elevated copper or lead levels found at 19 Detroit schools

DETROIT – Detroit Public Schools officials say elevated lead or copper levels have been found in 19 schools amid ongoing testing.

The district began collecting water samples two weeks ago. District spokeswoman Michelle Zdrodowski said at the time that a number of factors, including the lead-tainted water crisis in nearby Flint, led to “proactive and precautionary” testing.

Officials said late Wednesday that 19 of the 62 buildings tested so far showed elevated lead or copper levels. The district didn’t immediately release specifics about the levels that were found.

The district says it is working to fix the problems, has shut down drinking fountains and is providing bottled water. Families were notified, and further testing is planned.

Lead is a neurotoxin that can damage child brain development, cause behavioural problems and sicken adults.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles