Francis M Mckay Elementary School

To be honest, I'm pretty worried about the health environment at McKay. The attendance rates have been super low lately and chronic absenteeism is a massive issue, which usually tells you the kids are either constantly sick or the school culture isn't prioritizing being there. It feels like whenever a bug goes around, it just sweeps through the whole building because the cleaning isn't what it should be for a Chicago school. Also, trying to get a hold of anyone about health records or a sick kid is a headache since the staff-to-student ratio is so high; it feels like the teachers are too overwhelmed to even notice if a kid is coming down with something. I really wish they'd focus more on the actual wellness of the students instead of just getting through the day.

McKay is okay when it comes to the health stuff, but it's definitely a 'big city' public school vibe. The nurse is really nice but isn't there every single day, which can be a headache if your kid has an allergy or needs meds. They’re pretty strict about the 24-hour fever rule before kids come back, and I appreciate the emails when strep or something starts going around the classroom. It’s an older building so it doesn't always look sparkling clean, but the custodians seem to do their best with what they’ve got. It’s a decent environment for the neighborhood, just typical CPS ups and downs.