Water Update: All Safe at Irving Park!

To read the letter, or for a Spanish version please click here.

​October 4, 2016
Dear CICS Irving Park Family,

The safety of Chicago International Charter School (CICS) students is our top priority. With the recent concerns raised about water quality throughout Chicago, CICS independently tested the water in each of its schools.

Based on expert advice, CICS determined that the best time to test the water is approximately 1-2 weeks into the beginning of the school year to help ensure representative samples. CICS followed the same protocol as utilized by Chicago Public Schools, which included pulling samples from every drinking fountain and all sinks within the kitchen and food preparation areas.

The tests from your student’s campus indicate that no lead was found above the action level, and the water in the campus is safe. The full results are attached for your review.
Children can be exposed to lead from several sources, including soil, paint, and some consumer products. Federal guidance specifies that children under the age of six are at the highest risk for harmful lead exposure, and if you are concerned about your children’s possible lead exposure risks, please visit your pediatrician or call the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) lead hotline at 312.747.5323. Additional information also can be found at www.cdc.gov/lead.

We value the confidence you place in us each day to educate your children, and we will continue to work to ensure our students have a safe and healthy environment to grow and learn. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 312.651.5000 with any questions.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Shaw CEO