Marion Public School

Another post on leadership and accomplishments in this area. Our Pk-12 Principal, Mr. Leberman, was awarded the 2025-2026 Region 2 South Dakota Principal of the year! A huge congratulations to Mr. Leberman...We are so thankful for you and all that you do for our great school!

Lead Testing in School's Water -- Good afternoon, the Marion School will be participating in South Dakota's Lead Testing in Schools Program designed to assess drinking water sources within school facilities. This will be taking place on July 2nd. Please click the following links for a letter and pamphlet outlining more information. Please contact Mr. Brosnahan with any questions or concerns. Thank you!

https://aptg.co/JSTkB8

file:///C:/Users/brianb/OneDrive%20-%20State%20of%20South%20Dakota%20K-12%20Data%20Center/Desktop/Lead%20testing.pdf

Below is the letter you'll find at the https://aptg.co/JSTkB8 link:

Dear Marion School District Families,

The Marion School District is committed to providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all students and staff. As part of that commitment, we will be participating in South Dakota's Lead Testing in Schools Program, a proactive initiative designed to assess drinking water sources within school facilities. The Marion School will be having their water tested on July 2nd at 9:00 a.m.

Why Are We Testing?

Lead is a metal that can pose health risks when ingested, particularly for young children. While lead is not naturally found in drinking water, it can enter water through older plumbing materials, fixtures, faucets, or drinking fountains that contain lead components. Testing helps identify any potential concerns so they can be addressed promptly. Although there is currently no indication of a problem within our schools, we believe it is important to take a proactive approach to ensuring the safety of our students and staff.

Why Are We Doing This Now?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is implementing new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements that will eventually require community water systems to conduct lead sampling in the schools they serve. By participating in South Dakota's voluntary program now, Marion School District can satisfy future federal requirements while taking advantage of resources currently available to schools. Participation at this time provides several benefits:

• Testing, laboratory analysis, and technical support are fully funded through state and federal programs.

• Trained professionals coordinate and conduct the testing process.

• Schools receive expert guidance on interpreting results.

• If any remediation is needed, funding opportunities may be available to help address identified concerns.

HowTesting Works

Water samples will be collected from faucets, drinking fountains, and other fixtures that may be used for drinking or food preparation. The samples will be analyzed by EPA-certified laboratories following established testing protocols. Results will then be reviewed and shared with the district.

What Happens If Lead Is Found?

ting identifies elevated lead levels at a particular fixture, the district will work with state officials to determine appropriate corrective actions. These actions may include replacing fixtures, making plumbing improvements, or removing affected fixtures from drinking-water use until the issue is resolved. The EPA recommends taking action when lead levels exceed established guidance thresholds.

Commitment to Transparency

Marion School District believes in keeping our community informed. Once testing results are received and reviewed, we will communicate the findings and any necessary next steps with families and community members.

We appreciate your support as we continue to prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of our students and staff. Participating in this program allows us to be proactive, take advantage of available resources, and ensure we are prepared for future regulatory requirements.

Please contact Brian Brosnahan, Superintendent of the Marion School, if you have any questions.

Brian Brosnahan

brian.brosnahan@k12.sd.us

605-648-3615 ext. 3

Good luck to the Phoenix Softball team this week at the Softball State Tournament!