NC leaders plan to test for lead and asbestos in drinking water at schools

Experts say lead or asbestos contamination in drinking water at public schools could be making your child sick. The state's top education leaders will meet Wednesday to discuss what action is needed.

The North Carolina Board of Education will assess how high the risk for lead exposure is and how much should be spent to minimize the exposure.

When the school board gathers Wednesday, leaders will refine a policy to take further action on testing and discuss what the cost will be to execute that plan. The plan will be solely focused on eliminating or minimizing the risks identified with lead and asbestos exposure in child care facilities and public schools.

Over the past three years, WRAL News has reported on lead exposures at school in Wake, Cumberland and Wilson counties, but it is unclear how widespread the issue is.

The goal is to get testing underway and have results within the next 18 to 24 months.

WRAL News will be following Wednesday's meeting and will provide updates.