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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (AP) — Cumberland County health and school officials say lead found in paint chips and dust at an elementary school likely posed only a small risk to students and staff.
Multiple media outlets report that officials say most of the lead at William H. Owen Elementary School was found in old paint on the exterior of building. Superintendent Frank Till Jr. said at a news conference Thursday that lead wasn't found in classrooms or water.
Till says the school will open on time Aug. 29.
The county is offering free blood tests for previous students and staffers at Owen and will offer free blood tests at the school on Sept. 12.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency , lead in children can cause problems ranging from lower IQ and hyperactivity to slower growth and hearing problems.
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