Drinking Water Testing

Our Commitment to Safe & Healthy Drinking Water

Everett Public Schools is committed to providing safe, healthy learning and working environments. Between fall 2025 and June 2026, the district is conducting state-required testing of drinking water outlets at our schools, in partnership with the Washington State Department of Health. We are not required to test schools built or re-plumbed after 2016. 

This testing builds on the district's water testing work since 2016 and reflects increasingly protective standards for staff and students in schools. 

Our Testing Program

Testing is essential to identify drinking water outlets that may contribute to lead exposure, particularly in older or infrequently used fixtures. Through testing, potential sources of lead are identified, and appropriate actions—such as shutting off or replacing fixtures—are taken to reduce exposure.

Washington state law (RCW 28A.210.410 and RCW 43.70.830) requires public schools built or fully replumbed before 2016 to test drinking water outlets for lead. Retesting is required at least every five years. 

Testing helps identify individual sinks or fountains that may contain lead due to internal plumbing materials, particularly in older or infrequently used outlets. This allows schools to take early, preventive action when needed. 
 
City and school water standards 
Water standards differ between cities and schools. 

Federal and state law requires cities and municipalities to take action when lead levels reach 15 parts per billion (ppb) in the public water system. Washington state uses more protective guidelines for schools because children are more vulnerable to lead exposure. In schools, results above 5 ppb are considered elevated, and any outlet testing above 15 ppb must be shut off immediately.

Understanding lead exposure and student health 
Lead exposure can come from many everyday environmental sources, including paint, dust, soil, air, and food. School drinking water is usually a small contributor to overall lead exposure. Washington state’s lower action levels for schools help ensure potential concerns are identified and addressed early and carefully. 

Families with specific health questions should contact their health care provider with any concerns. 

Drinking water test results will be posted on this page as they are received.