The Mercer Island School District conducted annual water testing earlier this month, a precaution to ensure the highest water quality throughout its facilities.

While neither state nor federal regulations require school districts to conduct water sampling on a scheduled basis, the district annually hires an outside firm to perform random testing at each district-owned facility. As part of a communication plan, the superintendent requires that all water samples be communicated to the public.

There were 42 samples taken district-wide. These samples were tested for lead, copper and asbestos. Two of the samples were taken from the older portion of Islander Middle School in two science classrooms and the fixtures were sinks. Required follow-up testing occurred, due to lead results slightly exceeding the EPA action level of 15 parts per billion.

These fixtures were immediately replaced. Subsequent tests confirmed the lead present originated from the fixtures themselves, not the interior plumbing or the water supply.

For more, contact Craig Degginger at 206-236-4514.