MCPS Drinking Water Testing Program

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is committed to the safety of our students and staff. Since 2004, MCPS has implemented proactive measures and adhered to technical guidance provided by Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding school drinking water.

In May 2017, Governor Larry Hogan signed legislation requiring public and private schools to conduct periodic testing for the presence of lead in drinking water outlets. In response, drinking water in all MCPS schools was tested prior to June 15, 2018. MCPS continues testing on a three year cycle.

The action level designated by both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) was 20 parts per billion (ppb). In May 2019, the Montgomery County Council passed legislation that lowered the action level to 5 ppb.

In compliance with County regulations, drinking water outlets with sample results exceeding the action level are taken out of service. A remedial action plan developed based on analysis of sample results and outlet usage. Outlets will not be returned to service until post-remediation testing confirms sample results are below the action level.

For MCPS water testing reports; see below:

Drinking Water Test Reports

Water Safety Work Group

Water Bottle Filling Station Project

Helpful Links


For questions or comments, please contact:

Brian Mullikin
Environmental Team Leader
Office: 240-740-2324
Email: Brian_A_Mullikin@mcpsmd.org