Group demands more transparency and accountability from MPS over dangerous lead levels in schools

By LaRisa R Lynch, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Cookie Talyor wants answers.

Her 11-year-old granddaughter, Gwendolyn, attends Golda Meir Lower Campus, one of four Milwaukee Public Schools found to have dangerous lead levels.

One of those schools tested for lead contamination was ordered closed while remediation work took place but that was not the case for Golda Meir. That concerned Taylor. She said there has been a lack of transparency between MPS and the city’s health department on addressing dangerous lead hazards.

“That’s why I am here,” said Taylor, 65. “I want more information on MPS position and the city’s health department as it relates to schools’ lead detection not just for Golda Meir but all MPS schools.”

Taylor was among nearly 30 people attending a meeting Saturday held at the Washington Park Library about dangerous lead levels found in MPS buildings. The recently formed Lead-Safe Schools MKE hosted the meeting to demand more transparency and accountability from MPS. The group has launched a petition drive that has gathered 400 signatures so far.  

“Our end goal is to prevent any children from being lead poisoned at school. It is a ridiculous thing to say out loud,” said Kristen Payne of Lead-Safe Schools MKE and whose child is a third grader at Golda Meir Lower Campus, which serves students in grades three through five.

[…]

“I am concerned about the kids’ wellbeing,” Payne said.

Last month, the Health Department confirmed a student at Golda Meir Lower Campus had tested positive for lead poisoning after being exposed to the toxic metal. The department identified lead paint in a basement bathroom at the school.

Keep reading to learn more about the issue plaguing Milwaukee schools.

Discover Black history in our online galleries.

More breaking Black news.