Memphis, August 11, 2025
News Summary
Memphis-Shelby County Schools has reported elevated lead levels in drinking water at 24 school locations, affecting 27 individual sources. Although the district asserts there is no widespread contamination, concerns from parents regarding timely communication persist. In response, MSCS has taken the affected sources out of service and implemented the use of bottled water and filtration machines, prioritizing student safety. The district continues to monitor the situation and has urged parents with concerns about lead exposure to consult with pediatricians.
Memphis – The Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) district has reported elevated levels of lead in drinking water sources at 24 school locations, prompting immediate action as students returned to class on August 4, 2025. Recent testing has revealed that 27 individual water sources, including kitchen sinks and water fountains, tested at or above 15 parts per billion (ppb) of lead, surpassing the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) legal safety standard of 20 ppb.
MSCS has confirmed that 22 schools and 2 football stadiums have water sources exceeding the 15 ppb threshold. The affected water sources include 17 kitchen sinks, 5 concession areas or stadiums, 2 ice machines, 2 water fountains, and 1 hallway sink. In response to these findings, all identified water sources have been taken out of service until further testing and necessary corrective actions are implemented.
Though MSCS maintains that there is no widespread contamination, concerns have been raised by parents regarding effective communication about the situation. Some parents have expressed frustration about not being notified sooner, particularly about their children’s potential exposure. Bellevue Middle School, Central High School, and Sheffield Elementary are among the schools impacted by the elevated lead levels.
Health experts, such as Dr. Jason Yaun, have stressed the importance of addressing even minor exposure to lead, especially in children, as there is no level of lead in the body considered safe for health. Parents who may be worried about their children’s exposure to lead are encouraged to consult with pediatricians regarding potential blood tests.
In an effort to provide safe drinking water to students, MSCS has begun using bottled water and water filtration machines across the affected schools and facilities. The district has committed to thoroughly testing all areas until they are cleared of contamination and ensuring the health and safety of every student stays a priority.
As the situation develops, MSCS will continue to monitor water quality and implement corrective measures. The district remains focused on maintaining communication with parents and the community regarding health and safety concerns as well as updates on the resolution of this issue.
Summary of Actions Taken
- 27 water sources tested at or above 15 ppb of lead.
- 22 schools and 2 football stadiums affected.
- Affected sources taken out of service.
- Implementation of bottled water and filtration machines.
- Continued communication and testing planned.
Background Information
Lead contamination in drinking water has been a pivotal issue for educational facilities across the country. In Memphis, this recent incident serves as a critical reminder for the importance of water testing in schools. With the EPA’s threshold set at 20 ppb, MSCS’s discovery highlights the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of students in local schools.
Conclusion
MSCS is actively addressing health and safety concerns concerning elevated lead levels in drinking water sources and is committed to ensuring that all students have access to safe drinking water. Continuous updates will be provided to inform parents and guardians of any developments.
FAQ
What levels of lead were found in MSCS water sources?
Testing revealed 27 individual water sources across 24 schools tested at or above 15 parts per billion (ppb) of lead.
What actions has MSCS taken in response to the findings?
MSCS has taken the affected water sources out of service and implemented the use of bottled water and water filtration machines to ensure safe drinking water for students.
Is there a risk of widespread lead contamination in MSCS facilities?
MSCS has indicated that there is no widespread contamination, and elevated lead levels were found only in individual fixtures.
What should parents do if they are concerned about their children’s exposure to lead?
Parents concerned about exposure to lead are encouraged to consult with pediatricians regarding potential blood tests for their children.
Key Features Overview Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools Affected | 24 Schools and 2 Football Stadiums |
| Water Sources Tested Above 15 ppb | 27 Individual Water Sources |
| Types of Affected Water Sources | Kitchen sinks, stadium concession areas, ice machines, water fountains, hallway sink |
| Health Recommendations | Consult pediatricians for blood tests if exposure is a concern |
| Actions Taken by MSCS | Removal from service, bottled water, and filtration machines |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Wikipedia: Lead Poisoning
- WREG
- Google Search: Lead in Water in Schools
- Local Memphis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lead
- Action News 5
- Google News: Memphis Schools Lead Water
- Commercial Appeal
- WREG Local News
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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