Kern County Public Health inspectors found lead at a preschool south of Bakersfield on Wednesday.
Lead in paint, dust, exposed soil and water was tested from Brilliant Minds Academy on Taft Highway and Stine Road.
Preliminary test results detected lead levels above regulatory standards in the paint and in soil in some areas within the preschool.
The preschool is in a building that was built prior to 1978, according to Public Health. Buildings built before this year may contain lead-based paint.
Public Health determined children attending Brilliant Minds Academy may have been exposed to lead. The only way to find out if a child has been exposed to lead is through a blood lead test. Public Health is strongly recommending children who attend the preschool to get a venous blood test.
Lead exposure is potentially dangerous to children and pregnant women, and can make it difficult for a child to learn, pay attention, and perform well in school. Increased lead levels have been associated with behavioral problems.
Parents are invited to meet with Public Health on Monday, April 30 to discuss the potential lead exposures. The meeting will take place at the Public Health department at 1800 Mt. Vernon Avenue at 6 p.m.
Public Health says the most common sources of lead exposure in California is in lead-contaminated paint in pre-1978 homes and other buildings, soil, and dust. Those who have lead in their bodies may not have obvious symptoms.
Parents with questions and concerns can contact Public Health at (661) 321-3000.
