January 2, 2026
Dear Mansfield Elementary School Families:
We are writing today to provide you an update on the water at Mansfield Elementary School.
In August 2025, Connecticut Water installed a water mitigation system designed to address corrosion associated with new copper piping. Since the system became operational, monthly water testing has consistently shown that it is functioning as intended and that copper levels continue to decline. Based on these favorable and ongoing test results, we are pleased to share that beginning January 2, 2026, water in the building will be fully available for use and is safe for cooking and drinking from water fountains throughout the school.
For background, water testing began as soon as the new school’s systems were in place. There has never been any issue with the quality of the source water. However, tests revealed that the water running through the extensive copper piping was causing corrosion of the new copper pipe surfaces, elevating the presence of copper in the water. This is common with new construction, and eventually a patina forms inside the piping. Out of caution, and until testing confirmed acceptable levels, the district has provided bottled water for drinking and cooking since the school opened.
After consultation with the Department of Health and Connecticut Water, the School Building Committee was advised to install an Optimal Corrosion Control Treatment chemical injection system. (See attachment for details.) This system adds orthophosphate, a non-toxic corrosion inhibitor that conditions the piping by forming a protective mineral layer inside the copper pipes.
Since the installation of the OCCT system in August, professionals have tested the water each month to measure effectiveness. Copper levels are well below (.277 - .333) what is called an “Actionable Level” of 40 CFR. (Review view the full water test report here.) As is required for all public schools, regular testing of the water will continue and we will make these tests available to the public.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we worked through this issue. We are pleased to have our water fully restored and accessible for use by our MES community. Please feel free to reach out to my office if you have any questions pertaining to this update.
Sincerely,
Candace Morell
Superintendent of Schools
Click here to view a system diagram of the MES Water Mitigation System