Johann W Von Goethe Elementary School

I really want to love Goethe because it's such a staple in Logan Square, but honestly, I'm pretty stressed about the building conditions lately. I saw on the recent board agenda that they're just now bringing in consultants for asbestos and lead-based paint assessments. Why is this just happening in 2025? It’s a super old building and knowing my kid is breathing that in every day while they 'develop a plan' is not a great feeling. Communication from the school can be a bit hit or miss, and with the high student-to-teacher ratios in some of the grades, it feels like the teachers are too stretched thin to really notice if a kid is coming down with something until it's already spreading through the whole class. Definitely feels like the school system is lagging behind on basic maintenance and wellness support for our kids.

Goethe is honestly pretty solid when it comes to keeping the kids healthy. My 3rd grader has been there for two years and I've noticed the cleaning crew really stays on top of things, especially during flu season. They are super quick to send out an email if there's a bug going around the classroom, which I appreciate so I can watch for symptoms. The sick policy is standard CPS—pretty strict about the 24-hour fever-free rule—but the teachers are chill about sending home makeup work so they don't fall behind. Only downside is the nurse isn't there every single day, which seems to be a common thing in Chicago schools lately, but the office staff is really sweet and helpful if someone scrapes a knee or feels under the weather.