Chicago school officials meet with parents over lead testing

CHICAGO (AP) - Parents at a Chicago elementary school where high lead levels were detected in water from three fountains met with city officials to find out how the issue will be addressed.

The parents of Tanner Elementary School students were told Tuesday their children can elect to have their blood tested at the school next week. Students showing high levels of lead will be encouraged to obtain follow-up exams to confirm the results.

Parents questioned why Chicago Public Schools didn't shut down Tanner. Officials said water fountains where high lead levels were detected were immediately deactivated.

CPS began testing for lead in 32 schools last month. The testing has expanded to 250 additional schools, most built before 1986.

Schools CEO Forrest Claypool told parents testing began "out of an abundance of caution " to ensure lead hazards were removed