Joliet West Cancels High School Classes On Campus On Second Day Of School Year: Surprising Reason Given

JOLIET, IL — Things are off to an incredibly rocky start for Joliet High School Township Superintendent Karla Guseman and her staff during the first week of school.

At 5 a.m., District 204 sent out the following notice, advising students and teachers not to show up at Joliet West on Wednesday morning for their regular classes.

"Due to an electrical issue at Joliet West High School, there is no power to the cafeteria, kitchen and G-building. Therefore, today, August 19, 2026, is an Emergency E-Learning Day for students and staff at West Campus. This means that Joliet West students complete assignments online. Students should not report to Joliet West High School today. Coaches will communicate directly with their teams regarding athletics.

"All administrators, office professionals, security and buildings and grounds staff should report to the building. Teachers and instructional paraprofessionals can work from the campus or remotely."

According to District 204, transportation will still be provided to students at Joliet Central, Pathways, the JTHS Transition Center, and all outside placements.

"We are aware that a small number of students may not have computers as the school year has just started," the district advised. "If your student does not have their computer, you can pick it up today at Joliet West High School between 7:15 and 11:15 a.m. Enter the building through Door 5 (Cafeteria Entrance)."