Littleton Public Schools recently partnered with Denver Water to voluntarily test the drinking water in all Littleton Public Schools facilities to ensure it meets Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines for lead. There is no state or federal mandate requiring schools to do this.

Lead typically is not present in the water sent to our homes and schools, but it can enter the water as it moves through lead-containing plumbing and fixtures, which are common in the older homes and schools throughout our neighborhoods. Therefore, because of the age of our facilities, LPS chooses to take a proactive approach. LPS facilities on average are 55 years old, the newest being built in 1981 - 36 years ago. We want to make sure our students, staff and community members have access to healthy water that meets or exceeds today’s federal standards.  

Water from drinking fountains, kitchen food prep sinks and any other fixtures used for drinking water in all LPS schools and facilities was tested, which amounted to more than 3,000 water samples. We want to thank Denver Water for conducting the water tests free of charge.  

The EPA recommends action should be taken if lead levels in school drinking/cooking water are over 20 parts per billion, the equivalent to a single drop of water in 55,000 gallons. LPS is choosing to meet a stricter standard and will take action if lead levels are above 10 parts per billion.

Drinking fountains and kitchen food prep sinks with levels over 20 parts per billion will be replaced over winter break and immediately tested again. If levels are still above 20 parts per billion, the fixture will be turned off until satisfactory remedies can be made. All other water fixtures with levels above 20 parts per billion will be labeled with a sticker, “Notice: Hand Wash Only” and will remain stickered until the proper updates can be made.

Please visit the Voluntary Lead Testing page to access test results and additional information.

Thank you for your support as we continue to maintain our aging facilities and provide a safe and healthy environment in which to learn and work.