ROCKVILLE, MD-The analysis of water sample tests for elevated levels of lead at another 28 schools and facilities has been completed (see link below). All 28 buildings had elevated levels of lead in at least some locations. Thus far, 160 facilities have received completed test results. The most recent test results were released to parents through letters from their school principals the week of December 6, 2004.

The most recently tested schools and other facilities include: Benjamin Banneker Middle, Burning Tree Elementary, Carver Educational Services Center, Clearspring Elementary, Col. Zadok Magruder High, Eastern Middle, Emery Grove Center, Forest Knolls Elementary, Forest Oak Middle, Herbert Hoover Middle, John T. Baker Middle, Lakewood Elementary, McKenney Hills Center, North Bethesda Middle, North Lake Center, Oakland Terrace Elementary, Paint Branch High, Parkland Middle, Piney Branch Elementary, Richard Montgomery High, Ridgeview Middle, Rock Terrace School, Rocking Horse Road Center, Tilden Middle, Westbrook Elementary, William Tyler Page Elementary, Wood Acres Elementary, and Woodfield Elementary.

All results are for water samples taken straight from water sources without implementing the mandatory water flushing of 15 minutes every four hours for water coolers and 60 seconds every four hours for other water sources. Water flushing is required in all schools, unless otherwise authorized by the Montgomery County Health Department, as indicated on the attached list.

The high samples include remote sites (such as sink faucets) and not designated drinking water sources. The results for hallway water coolers are included as a separate data list of water sources most readily used by students.

The continued analysis of test results for the remaining schools and facilities is ongoing
by health department and school system staff. The entire process is following protocols
recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The action level standard is a water sample in which the level of lead content is greater than 20 parts per billion (ppb).

The list of test results will be updated as new testing results are released.