Rochester, New York
Is there lead in your school's water?
Enter a ZIP code to see the latest lead test results reported by schools to the New York State Department of Health. The state action level is 5 parts per billion.
Map of Rochester-area schools
Click any school to jump to its test results.
Speak up for safe water
Schools fix problems faster when families ask questions. If your child's school has outlets over the limit, or has not shared results yet, call the school first. Then let city and state leaders know you want it fixed.
- Mayor Malik D. EvansCity Hall, 30 Church St., Room 308A, Rochester, NY 14614
Phone: 585-428-7045
Email: info@cityofrochester.gov
City info line: 311 - Your state representativesEnter your home address to find your own Assembly member and State Senator, with their phone and email.
Find my Assembly member
Find my State Senator
Why lead in school water matters for children
There is no safe level of lead exposure for children. Lead is a neurotoxin that builds up in the body, and even low levels can cause lasting harm:
- Brain and nervous system damage. Lead can lower IQ, shorten attention span, and slow learning in school-age children.
- Behavior and attention problems. Exposure is linked to hyperactivity, antisocial behavior, and reduced academic performance.
- Hearing and growth effects. Lead can impair hearing, slow physical growth, and cause anemia.
- Damage is permanent. The effects of childhood lead exposure cannot be reversed.
Children absorb lead more easily than adults, and schools are a key exposure point because kids drink there every day. If a school shows results over the 5 ppb action level, ask the school what outlets were affected, whether they have been taken out of service, and what remediation was done. A pediatrician can test a child's blood lead level with a simple blood test.