Report Details Lead Levels At Ramapo, Indian Hills High Schools

OAKLAND, NJ — Ramapo and Indian Hills high schools were included in a report highlighting the prevalence of lead in water supplies in school districts released by Rep. Josh Gottheimer Monday.

The report analyzes every school district in the Fifth District, which Gottheimer represents, for their compliance with New Jersey's lead water reporting law.

At Indian Hills, 14 samples were found to be above the U.S.-action level of 15 parts per billion. All of those sources were turned off pending a review and correction.

At Ramapo High School, one sample had above the level of 15 parts per billion, according to the report. All sources had their water turned off pending a review and correction.

Samples were taken at both schools in May 2017. Testing results were posted on the district's website.

Of the 85 Fifth District schools, 19 percent did not report the results of lead testing on their website. Of the 81 percent that did, 46 indicated at least one outlet in the district had a problem with lead in the water.

"I believe it is essential that parents, teachers, and administrators have all of the information at their fingertips about lead levels in their schools, so they are well-informed about potential health issues their children may face, and communities can take necessary measures," Gottheimer said.

Gottheimer and Gov. Phil Murphy announced several initiatives Monday designed to strengthen the state's response to lead testing and fix elevated lead levels in drinking water in New Jersey schools. Those initiatives include requiring schools to test for lead every three years.

For more information about the initiatives or to view Gottheimer's complete report, click here.

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com