Fire At School District Offices Caused By Faulty Light, Not Foul Play

WINNETKA, IL — The fire that broke out late Monday night in the Winnetka School District 36 administrative offices was not caused by any mischief, but rather by a faulty light, officials said.

Superintendent Kelly Tess said firefighters kept the blaze isolated to the front of the offices, but significant smoke and water damage to the windows, doors, drywall and ceiling tile means it is unsuitable for occupation.

Tess said investigators have determined the fire began with an undermount LED cabinet light installed during renovations to the office in 2008.

"It is apparent that this was an unfortunate random occurrence and not due to ongoing construction, unsafe conditions in the office or foul play," Tess said.

The superintendent said staff have removed all the other similar lights in the office to prevent a potential repeat.

Crews from construction manager Bulley & Andrews are already at Washburne School, beside the district offices at 1235 Oak St., for the second phase of capital improvements funded by the $59.4 million bond referendum voters approved in November 2022.

"Fortunately, Bulley & Andrews is able to afford us additional staff to begin repair and remediation work in the District Office," Tess said. "We are grateful to their quick response and valued partnership. At this time, we do not yet have an estimate on how long this work will take as ceiling tile and carpet replacement will be necessary as well."

District staff will be working remotely indefinitely, with their office phone lines forwarded so they remain accessible during business hours.

"We look forward to a return to business as usual as soon as possible," Tess said.

Earlier: 'Significant' Damage From Late-Night Fire At District 36 Administrative Offices