BEDFORD COUNTY, VA -
Some Bedford County parents are concerned after they weren't informed there could be possible water contamination at their children's school.
"They usually send information home anytime something's going on" said Brandy Orange, a mother of two fifth grade boys at Thaxton Elementary School in Bedford County. "Both of them drink a lot of water because they're active in sports and we tell them they have to keep themselves hydrated."
In November, Bedford County Schools received a letter from the Virginia Department of Health saying five of their water samples tested positive for total coliform bacteria. The school's water comes from a well. The letter says "coliforms are a sign there could be a problem with the system's treatment or distribution system." It went onto say people may drink the water, while people with health concerns should talk to their doctor.
"I'm pretty ticked off right now that we had to find out on Facebook and through other parents about the water condition here at the school. A notice, a letter, nothing was sent home" said Jamee Simmons, her daughter also goes to Thaxton. "She has chronic stomach problems, she goes to a pediatric gastrologist. She's been in and out of the hospital with them, and I was told with the condition that's been going on here that could affect her."
"I just find it strange that we didn't receive notice that there was a problem and then we didn't receive notice once the problem had been solved" said Orange.
Bedford County schools tell us "We notify our parents if water quality worsens/situation escalates. In this instance it did not."
The Virginia Department of Health tells us the school posted a warning, meeting the department of health requirements and waterworks regulations do not require the notice be sent home with students.
Orange says she's happy the problem's fixed.
"I would definitely wish in the future if there is a problem with the water or anything else, just make sure you let us know" said Orange.
The Department of Health says the school's well, storage tank and distribution system were disinfected and flushed. The water tested clean December, January and February.
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