AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) – According to a study by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), an alarming number of schools still contain low levels of lead, including here in the Panhandle.

The report shows that both public and private school systems participated in the study.

High Plains Children’s Home, San Jacinto Head Start, Lakeview Elementary and the Region 16 Head Start Nelson location tested positive for readable levels of lead, according to the report.

“Lead exposure can be deposited anywhere, so bones, brain. It can affect the entire body system, so even that can cause developmental delays that can lead to learning difficulties. If it’s not caught, it could even be permanent,” said Dr. Anders Leverton, TTUHSC pediatrician.

The TCEQ report states that more than 1,500 schools were voluntarily tested, and 78 percent tested positive for low levels of lead.

The EPA’s lead and copper improvements went into effect in October, leaving city governments responsible for inspecting all city water lines, including those in our school systems.

“Inspections will require, as the rule continues to be enforced, that all registered schools and daycares be checked for primary service lines, but additional monitoring of evidence will also be required,” said COA Assistant Director Shannon Tollison Utilities.

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