SETH BOYDEN HIGHEST LEAD WATER LEVEL PROMPTS SPECIAL RAMOS NOTE

While the revelation Monday that nine drinking water sources in five district schools had lead levels above the acceptable levels drew concern, one drinking fountain at Seth Boyden School was 10 times as toxic as any of the others with a lead level of 444ppb, well above the 15ppb considered safe.

That prompted a special note to Seth Boyden parents from Superintendent John Ramos Monday that called the findings there "significantly higher" than accepted levels and suggested that concerned parents should have their children see a doctor.

See the note below:

Dear Seth Boyden Community,

In testing results which SOMSD received this weekend, the hallway water fountain by room 105 tested at 444 parts per billion. This is significantly higher than the lead action level established by the US Environmental Protection Agency for lead in drinking water (15 µg/l [ppb]). 

The water fountain has been turned off and covered, and bottled water is available at the school. All other Seth Boyden water sources tested within the allowable levels this year. All water sources, including this fountain, tested safely last year

We have already been in contact with local health officials, and are meeting with health officials and the district’s physician tomorrow morning to determine the next best steps to ensure the health and well-being of our students and staff. We will inform you of the next steps which we decide upon, in consultation with health experts, after this meeting.

If you believe that you or your child have used this water fountain and are concerned, we encourage you to consult with your doctor.

Sincerely,
Dr. John J. Ramos, Sr.
Superintendent