School Cafeteria Opens Amid Minor Fire Suppression Hiccup

The August 2025 Committee Meeting of the D128 School Board addressed the first day of school, highlighting both challenges and successes. The meeting revealed that while there were initial hiccups, particularly involving a fire suppression system in the cafeteria, the day ultimately went smoothly.

The fire suppression system was accidentally triggered in the kitchen, prompting a quick response from the kitchen staff. They shifted to serving cold cuts, salads, and pizzas while a service company was called in to reactivate the system. Fortunately, the incident occurred in a restricted area, ensuring that students were not affected. The kitchen was cleaned and inspected by the public health department, allowing operations to resume by 1:00 PM.

In addition to addressing the fire incident, the meeting noted that new cafeteria furniture had been installed, although the new café area was not yet ready for occupancy. The flooring was completed, and while some ceiling work remains, students were accommodated in various spaces, including the gym for overflow seating. They also utilized food labs to prepare warm meals, ensuring that all students had access to food despite the initial setback.

Overall, the meeting underscored the effective management of the situation and the creativity of staff in ensuring a successful first day of school. The board expressed appreciation for the quick resolution of issues and the readiness for the following day.