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Understanding “Filter First” and Water Safety in Our Schools

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Understanding “Filter First” and Water Safety in Our Schools
Filter First

At Bloomfield Hills Schools, the health and safety of our students and staff are always a top priority. As part of Michigan’s new Filter First legislation, we are taking important steps to continue ensuring clean drinking water in our schools. 

What Is Filter First?

The Clean Drinking Water Access Act (2023 PA 154) requires all Michigan schools and child care centers to:

  • Install lead-reducing filters on designated drinking water fountains and sinks.
  • Develop a Drinking Water Management Plan (DWMP) to guide water safety efforts.
  • Test filtered water regularly to ensure safety.

What Does This Mean for Bloomfield Hills Schools?

At the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, you may notice signs on some water fountains and sinks stating they are not for drinking. These fixtures are used for cleaning, handwashing, or other purposes, but it does not mean that the water is unsafe. Only designated drinking fountains will have lead-reducing filters to ensure safe drinking water.

Our Commitment to Safe Water

Bloomfield Hills Schools was awarded $289,000 in grant funding to purchase filters and equipment, helping us comply with the new regulations efficiently. Thanks to state grants, we are implementing these changes efficiently and responsibly, ensuring our schools comply with the law while continuing to provide safe, clean drinking water for all students and staff. The Board of Education approved the purchase of bottle filling stations, filters, and supplies to be paid for from Filter First Healthy Hydration grant funds at the May 19, 2025 meeting. This means that these filtration systems will be in place for the 2025-26 school year.