MPS Faces Call to Address Lead Contamination in Schools

MILWAUKEE, Wis (WAUK) — The Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) has issued an urgent warning to Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), citing dangerous levels of lead contamination in several school buildings.

In a letter dated Feb. 5, the MHD urged immediate action to protect students from the risks of lead poisoning, developmental delays, and other health complications.

Yesterday, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, Health Commissoner Mike Totoraitis, and Interim MPS Superintendent Eduardo Galvan held a joint press conference to tell the community what they know and take questions.

The MHD’s findings stem from investigations conducted in January. They revealed lead dust hazards exceeding state safety standards in multiple MPS locations. Testing methods included visual inspections, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing, dust wipe sampling, soil sampling, and water sampling.

Golda Meir School and Kagel Elementary School were identified as having particularly high lead dust levels on floors and windowsills.

MHD Commissioner of Health Michael Totoraitis urged MPS to revise and strengthen its Lead Management Plan, prioritize high-risk facilities for testing and remediation, and fully abate or control identified lead hazards.

The health department also recommended reviewing and updating cleaning and lead dust prevention protocols, as well as addressing potential lead hazards from non-paint sources, such as leaded pipes and faucets.

The MHD is requesting a formal response from MPS outlining its action plan within 30 days, with a deadline of March 21.