© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Detroit Schools Shut Off Drinking Water Due To Lead, Copper

Detroit
Reginald Hardwick
/
WKAR-MSU
Downtown Detroit

Drinking water is being shut off at all Detroit public schools because the water in 16 of them was found to have high levels of lead or copper.

Superintendent Nikolai Vitti said Wednesday that he's turning off the water at all schools "out of an abundance of caution" while more tests are performed.

Officials believe old fixtures, not the water source, may be to blame.

Detroit Public Schools Community District has more than 100 buildings and serves more than 40,000 students. The new school year starts next week.

The district operates independently from City Hall, but Vitti says he's working with Mayor Mike Duggan on water quality issues.

Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.