MPS Submits Draft Lead Action Plan to Milwaukee Health Department

(MILWAUKEE) — Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) today submitted a preliminary Lead Action Plan to the City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD), fulfilling the March 21 deadline set by the department in its February 5 directive. The plan outlines MPS’s proposed next steps to assess, address, and prevent lead hazards in district buildings.

MHD has received the plan and will begin reviewing the document in full. Once that review is complete and next steps are confirmed, MHD will meet with media to discuss the department’s assessment of the plan and its recommendations moving forward.

The following is a brief summary of key points:

• The oldest schools with the youngest learners will be prioritized for inspection/remediation.
• The district has hired 10 new staff members so far for lead stabilization and continue to work with contracted employees.
• Visual inspections are being performed and are tentatively expected to be completed in May for the oldest schools in the first phase.

The district’s Lead-Based Paint Compliance Program document has been updated. In addition, work disturbing lead-based paint will only be conducted in isolated, contained, and unoccupied spaces, in accordance with state regulation DHS 163.

“As I come into this role as superintendent, there is nothing more important to me than ensuring our schools are welcoming, safe, healthy, and thriving communities. Anything less is not conducive to teaching and learning,” said Dr. Brenda Cassellius, Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools. “Meeting this deadline, set by MHD, is an indication that we are moving forward with intention and urgency and that we are eager to begin the work of stabilizing any remaining potential lead hazards at schools. As we do this work, we will be guided by our commitment to transparency and accountability.”

“We appreciate MPS meeting this deadline,” said Dr. Michael Totoraitis, Commissioner of Health for the City of Milwaukee. “Our team will begin a detailed review of the draft plan and will continue working closely with MPS leadership to ensure a strong and accountable path forward.”

“This plan is only the beginning. We expect clearly defined timelines, proper staffing and training, and a commitment to continuous improvement in lead safety practices across all MPS buildings,” added Commissioner Totoraitis. “MHD will provide detailed feedback and partner with MPS to ensure the health of every student and staff member remains the top priority.”

Further updates, including media availability details, will be shared at milwaukee.gov/MPS-Lead and mpsmke.com/mpsleadreport.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.