57 Detroit schools have high levels of lead and copper in drinking water

September 2018

At least 57 Detroit public schools have tested positive so far for high levels of copper, lead or both in drinking water.

The Detroit Public Schools Community District said Wednesday that it's awaiting results for 17 more schools, which means the total number of schools with tainted water could go up. The school district said it initiated water testing last year to ensure the safety of students and employees. "This (testing) was not required by federal, state, or city law," it said. "This testing, unlike the previous testing in 2016, evaluated all water sources from sinks to drinking fountains."

Last month, the school district turned off drinking water inside all school buildings after some schools showed high levels of copper and/or lead.