Memphis, Tennessee, August 11, 2025
News Summary
Memphis-Shelby County Schools reported elevated lead levels in water sources across 22 schools and two stadiums, prompting immediate action. Recent testing revealed 27 water sources with lead levels exceeding the federal safety limit of 20 ppb. MSCS has disabled affected sources and plans retesting in 90 days, ensuring safety for students through bottled water and filtration solutions as concerns about health risks arise among parents.
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) has reported elevated lead levels in the water sources of 22 schools and two football stadiums, prompting immediate action to ensure student safety. Recent testing showed that 27 individual water sources at these 24 school locations exceeded the federal safety threshold for lead in drinking water.
Details of Contamination
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a legal safety limit for lead in drinking water at 20 parts per billion (ppb). However, the recent testing conducted by MSCS revealed that several water sources contained lead levels above this threshold, with 27 instances documented. Specifically, the affected sources included:
- 17 kitchen sinks
- 5 concession areas or stadiums
- 2 ice machines
- 2 water fountains
- 1 hallway sink
As a precaution, MSCS has removed all found affected water sources from service and plans to retest these locations in approximately 90 days. Water sources with lead levels ranging between 15 ppb and 20 ppb will undergo retesting within the next year, adhering to state guidelines.
Health Implications
Health professionals have highlighted the danger associated with lead exposure, particularly for children. Even low levels of lead have been linked to developmental issues, as no safe exposure threshold has been established. Parents and guardians are advised to consult pediatricians regarding potential testing for lead exposure in their children.
Parental Concerns
The announcement has raised alarms among parents, particularly concerning the timing of the notification related to the water contamination. Many parents have expressed dissatisfaction, voicing concerns over the potential impacts on their children’s health.
Affected Schools and Facilities
The specific schools and facilities with elevated lead levels include:
- Bellevue Middle School
- Bolton High Stadium
- Central High School
- Cromwell Elementary
- Middle College
- Ford Road Elementary
- Geeter Middle School
- Georgian Hills Elementary
- Germantown High Stadium
- Invictus Academy at Airways
- Jackson Elementary
- Kingsbury Middle
- Northeast Prep Academy (Macon)
- Oak Forest Elementary
- Peabody Elementary
- Raleigh-Bartlett Meadows Elementary
- Raleigh Egypt High
- Raleigh Egypt Middle
- Sheffield Career and Technical Center
- Sheffield Elementary
- Southwest Career and Technical School
- Treadwell Middle
- White Station High
- Whitehaven Elementary
- STEM School
MSCS has committed to providing bottled water and water filtration machines as interim solutions to ensure safe drinking options for students while efforts are made to address the contamination.
Conclusion
The findings do not suggest widespread contamination throughout all school buildings but indicate specific areas of concern requiring immediate attention. The district is actively working to resolve the issue and ensure student safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What schools are affected by the lead contamination?
22 schools and 2 football stadiums within the Memphis-Shelby County Schools district were identified with elevated lead levels. A detailed list of schools can be found in the article.
What is the action plan for addressing the contaminated water sources?
MSCS has turned off all affected water sources and will conduct retesting in 90 days. Water sources with lead levels between 15 ppb and 20 ppb will be retested within the next 12 months according to state guidelines.
What should parents do to ensure their children’s safety?
Parents are advised to consult with pediatricians regarding testing for lead exposure and ensure that their children have access to safe drinking water.
Are the affected schools providing safe water alternatives?
Yes, MSCS is providing bottled water and water filtration machines at the affected schools until the issues with lead in the water are fully resolved.
Key Features of the Lead Contamination Report
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Schools Affected | 22 schools & 2 football stadiums |
| Total Affected Sources | 27 water sources |
| Lead Exposure Threshold | Federal safety limit is 20 ppb |
| Health Risks | Exposure to any level of lead is harmful to children’s health |
| Alternative Water Solutions | Bottled water and filtration machines provided |
| Next Steps | Retesting in 90 days for contaminated sources |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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South Memphis Community Launches Groundwater Protection Initiative
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Wikipedia: Lead contamination in drinking water
- WREG News
- Local Memphis
- Action News 5
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
