A growing health concern at Warren Hills Elementary School in Liberty, Missouri has drawn national attention as Congressman Sam Graves pushes for a federal investigation into a potential cancer cluster among school staff.
With at least six breast cancer diagnoses and one liver cancer death reported among a small staff over the past 12 years, questions are mounting about environmental factors—particularly a nearby cell tower.
This article explores the timeline, test results, community reactions, and what comes next in this developing public health issue.
Timeline of Events and Property Background
Warren Hills Elementary opened in 2006. Prior to that, the land was owned by the Warren family for generations and included just a house and pond.
The City of Liberty approved a 120-foot cell tower addition to the school campus—now central to the ongoing concerns.
Despite testing, many feel those assessments have not gone far enough to rule out environmental hazards.
Reported Cancer Cases and Staff Numbers
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Staff | 40 |
| Breast Cancer Diagnoses (since 2012) | 6 |
| Liver Cancer Death | 1 (Fall 2024) |
| Total Cancer Cases Reported | 7 |
| Timeframe | Last 12 years |
These numbers are alarming given the relatively small size of the staff population.
Health Testing Conducted So Far
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services performed radon testing in 2015, which yielded no concerns. Additionally, the Clay County Health Center conducted a 2022 study concluding the breast cancer rate was not above expected levels.
Despite this, many parents and teachers have expressed skepticism and requested more comprehensive testing.
Federal Involvement and Congressman’s Action
On May 13, 2025, Congressman Sam Graves wrote to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., requesting a formal review and assistance in examining the high number of cancer diagnoses.
Graves noted that community members do not trust the earlier test results, believing the investigations may have been incomplete or insufficient to detect long-latency or cumulative exposure risks.
Cell Tower Radiation Concerns
A major point of contention revolves around the cell phone tower installed on school grounds.
Ellie Marks, founder of the California Brain Tumor Association, addressed the Liberty School Board in April 2025, citing research on electromagnetic radiation from cell towers and its potential health risks.
Marks stated:
“The emissions from the cell tower at the school are absolutely endangering the health of staff, teachers, and your children.”
She added that Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines are outdated, based on 30-minute exposures, while students and staff are potentially exposed for 30+ hours weekly.
Community Voices and Public Safety Demands
Laura Norris, a local business owner and family friend of one of the deceased, spoke passionately at the school board meeting:
“If nearly a million dollars is going to be spent, it should go to public safety—not silence.”
Parents and faculty are calling for:
- Independent environmental testing
- Relocation of the cell tower
- More transparent communication from school officials
The Liberty “sick school” case is a growing public health issue that underscores the need for comprehensive, transparent, and science-based environmental testing.
With federal involvement possibly on the horizon, many hope that renewed scrutiny will provide answers—and accountability. For the families, educators, and students at Warren Hills Elementary, the question remains: Is enough being done to ensure their safety?