Gregori High School in Modesto has temporarily shut off its on-campus drinking outlets after tests late last week detected lead in the school's water. Administrators told families that drinking fountains and other potable fixtures were taken out of service while follow-up sampling and corrective measures proceed.
According to a report from The Modesto Bee, station video from the campus showed students and parents reacting to the announcement as officials described the initial round of test results. The station notes that the discovery led the school to restrict water access and that officials are arranging confirmatory testing.
Gregori’s official site now includes a notice about drinking water testing and links to past lead and copper results, and the district posts resources for families who want more information. As posted on Gregori High School, the campus lists contact points for parents with questions about water testing and safety.
What officials say
School leaders have taken affected outlets out of service and say they are coordinating with local public health authorities while they determine which fixtures tested above safe levels. The Modesto Bee reports that the district is moving quickly to identify the specific fountains and sinks involved and to provide alternative drinking options for students while the work plays out.
Why lead shows up and what the rules say
Lead is most often introduced by older plumbing, solder, or fixtures inside a building rather than from the water source itself, the California State Water Resources Control Board explains. The board notes that state testing programs aimed at K–12 sites were completed in 2019 for older buildings and that any detection should trigger steps to reduce exposure along with follow-up sampling.
How families can reduce exposure
Health agencies say there is no safe level of lead and recommend some practical steps while testing continues. Those include running cold water for a few moments before using it for drinking or cooking, avoiding hot tap water for infant formula, and using filters certified to remove lead or bottled water as needed. The precautions and testing guidance come from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and local public health resources.
What happens next
District officials say follow-up sampling and lab confirmation will determine which fixtures need repair or replacement and whether longer-term fixes are required. The California State Water Resources Control Board notes that remediation can include replacing fixtures, targeted plumbing work, or installing certified treatment systems. The district has promised to update families as new test results come in and a remediation timetable is finalized.
