Safe and healthy school environments are essential in fostering healthy and successful children. To protect public health, the Public Health Law and New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) regulations require that all public schools test lead levels in water from every water outlet that is being used, or potentially being used for drinking or cooking. If lead is found in any water outlet at levels of 5 parts per billion (ppb) or higher, the NYSDOH requires that schools take action to reduce the exposure to lead in the water. The previously suggested levels were 15 ppb or higher.

The “on-again, off-again” nature of water use in school buildings can cause varying levels of lead in the water due to water remaining in pipes overnight, over a weekend, or over a vacation period. Water stagnation periods result in water staying in contact with lead pipes and lead solder, and as a result, can lead to high levels of lead.

The District recently completed a first draw sampling of 101 water outlets throughout the district during the third week of June 2025. The District has reported results based on the regulations stated above (i.e. outlets not used for drinking or cooking were excluded). Results from 6 of those outlets showed lead levels above the 5 ppb threshold.

The District is required to take remedial actions to address outlets with elevated levels. Options for remediation include permanent outlet removal from service, flushing/retesting, filtration, and education/signage. The District has taken appropriate remedial action based on the location/nature of use of the outlet.

If you have further questions about the testing process and any of the remedial actions taken, please do not hesitate to contact the District Office.

Oneida City Schools Lead testing results:

Oneida High School – 38 tests with 37 passed and 1 failed

Otto Shortell Middle School – 22 tests with 21 passed and 1 failed

Durhamville Elementary – 12 tests with 12 passed and 0 failed

Seneca Street Elementary – 14 tests with 11 passed and 3 failed

Willard Prior Elementary – 15 tests with 14 passed and 1 failed