Leeds City Schools Partners with The Shops of Grand River to Support Leeds Primary School After Fire Damage

Community collaboration helps restore normalcy after lightning strike and months of recovery

On June 6, 2025, lightning struck the roof of Leeds Primary School, sparking a fire that quickly spread through the building’s insulation. Firefighters from Leeds and neighboring departments contained the blaze after several hours, but the thousands of gallons of water used to extinguish it left 15 classrooms damaged and forced major adjustments for the 2025–2026 school year.

Since August, nearly 500 students have adapted to creative new learning arrangements — including shared classrooms, instructional coaches relocated to hallways, mobile counseling and music instruction, a gym converted into temporary storage, and a cafeteria transformed into a “cafenasium,” with students eating meals in their classrooms.

Despite the challenges, the LPS community persevered — and a recent act of generosity is helping restore a sense of normalcy.

When Jeannie Cole, General Manager of The Shops of Grand River, learned of the school’s situation, she reached out to offer support. “We want to help,” Cole said. She offered an unused storefront space at Grand River to Leeds Primary School — free of charge and for as long as needed. With help from Two Men and a Truck, all stored classroom materials and supplies are being moved this week from the gym to the new location.

When students and teachers return from Fall Break, the gym will reopen for physical education, and the cafeteria will resume normal operations.

“We are so grateful for Mrs. Cole and her team’s generous offer,” said Leeds Primary School Principal Steven Porter. “Having our gym and lunchroom back will bring a sense of normalcy and joy to our students and teachers. This partnership truly reflects the spirit of the Leeds community.”

District leaders, architects, and insurance representatives are finalizing plans for construction and repair of the damaged classrooms.