The Guam Department of Education said students and staff at Upi Elementary School have not shown a higher rate of illness compared to other schools, despite concerns over dieldrin detected in the Yigo's water supply.
According to GDOE Spokesperson Damen Michael Borja, representatives from GWA, EPA, DPHSS, and GDOE met on Sept. 10 and were informed of the well contamination issue. That same day, Upi Elementary was instructed to stop using sinks, faucets, and any water sources connected to the well, including in the kitchen. By Sept. 11, GWA had installed filters on all drinking water sources at the school rated to remove the contaminant.
Chief Nurse Julietta Quinene is reviewing health data over a proposed two-year timeline to evaluate any potential impacts. “As of right now I can make the comment that staff, students, and faculty have not seen a higher rate of sickness at Upi compared to other schools,” Borja stated. GWA has continued to monitor the filters since installation.
GWA notified affected families by letter and email, and Upi Elementary administrators addressed the issue directly with parents and stakeholders during a PTO meeting on Sept. 18.