Niles West experienced a power outage on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 2:43 pm, as 8th period ended. Students were instructed to stay in their 8th period classes until the “all clear” was given over the intercom. Lights and HVAC systems were down, but the intercom and bells functioned during the outage.

“I was in my English class when it occurred. Everything went black and then the clock hands started spinning,” senior Jaden Vo said. “It was really weird, but I was relieved I didn’t have to go to VPE [Varisty Physical Education].”

Other classes found ways to keep themselves entertained during the time spent waiting.

“It was the best thing ever. I was in German and my teacher told us a story about his childhood to pass the time,” freshman Ajla Osmanic said.

At 3:00 pm, Principal Jeremy Christian announced that students were cleared to go to their 9th period classes.

Later that afternoon, Christian emailed students and families, fully detailing the power outage timeline.