DOE, parents and pols respond to high lead levels at Dyker school
Lead levels of some water samples taken at J.H.S. 259 William McKinley have sparked concern in the school community and beyond.
The New York Department of Education (DOE) sent a letter home to parents on Friday, January 20, releasing the results of recent testing and explaining what they mean. “On December 24, 2016, every potential source of water for drinking or preparing food at I.S. 259 was tested for lead,” said DOE Deputy Chancellor Elizabeth Rose. “The laboratory results showed elevated levels of lead in 10 of the 118 samples of water taken and tested from outlets in the building.”
“When I saw that letter, I was very concerned,” parent Chris Robles told this paper. “I think it’s good that the school is being proactive in dealing with it. The concern is finding the lead source and what exposure kids have had throughout the year. It’s a huge concern. Lead can cause cognitive dysfunction. It’s such a dangerous substance for kids to have.”