School open at District 118 today after new electric transformer installed

Schools are open in Wauconda Unit District 118, officials said Thursday.

A new transformer has been successfully installed and is fully operational at Wauconda High School, officials announced on their website.

This means Wauconda High School, Wauconda Middle School, Matthews Middle School, Wauconda Grade School, Robert Crown School and Cotton Creek School will be in session today, officials said.

A main electrical transformer at Wauconda High School became overheated and failed after the school day ended, Superintendent Daniel Coles said. The transformer affected all six school buildings because it provides power for the districtwide computer network, student emergency information and telephone services, officials said.

ComEd told school officials it has confidence that a new transformer will be installed and operating Thursday morning. But, if the company was unable to replace the transformer, administrators would have had to cancel school for the entire district.

Students in first through 12th grades reported back to school on Wednesday. Kindergarten classes are scheduled to start Thursday.