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THORP ELEM/LEARN CHARTER in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/10/23

📍 View THORP ELEM/LEARN CHARTER Business Profile

CHICAGO, IL - Health inspectors documented violations at THORP ELEM/LEARN CHARTER during a routine inspection conducted on 04/10/2023.

Located at 8914 S BUFFALO AVE BSMT, the facility is part of CHICAGO's diverse food service industry. Routine inspections help maintain consistent safety standards throughout the city's dining establishments.

The inspection identified 7 distinct violations requiring correction. These findings represent specific conditions observed during the inspection that must be addressed to meet health code requirements.

The first violation involved food storage. Inspectors documented: FOOD PROPERLY LABELED. Improper storage can lead to cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods.

The second violation concerned food storage. Inspectors documented: ORIGINAL CONTAINER - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS (SQUEEZE BOTTLES)WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.. Improper storage can lead to cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods.

The third violation related to pest management. Inspectors documented: INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: Inspector Comments: Violation Codes: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE TORN SCREEN ON DOOR IN KITCHEN .. The FDA Food Code requires establishments to eliminate conditions that attract and harbor pests, including proper waste management and facility maintenance. For more information, see FDA pest control standards. Pest droppings and debris can trigger allergic reactions and asthma in sensitive individuals.

The fourth violation related to sanitization. Inspectors documented: FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON BOTH 3- DOOR REACH IN COOLERS IN LUNCHROOM.. FDA sanitation guidelines require regular cleaning and sanitizing of all food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth. For more information, see FDA sanitation standards. Inadequate sanitization allows bacteria to survive and multiply on food contact surfaces.

The fifth violation related to hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED. According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. The CDC identifies poor hand hygiene as a leading contributor to foodborne illness outbreaks.

The sixth violation concerned hand hygiene and handwashing facilities. Inspectors documented: TEST STRIPS - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: OBSERVED NO DRAINBOARD AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.. According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. Fecal-oral transmission of pathogens occurs when hands are not properly washed after restroom use.

The seventh violation concerned temperature control. Inspectors documented: NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM LOWER SHELF OF HOT HOLDING UNIT. The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. The CDC reports that temperature abuse is a factor in many foodborne illness outbreaks.

Establishments receiving violations must submit correction plans and may face additional inspections. Failure to address violations can result in fines, permit suspension, or closure.

This inspection data is provided by Chicago Department of Public Health. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/10/2023 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Chicago Department of Public Health. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Chicago Food Service Sanitation Rules. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was this inspection conducted?

This inspection was conducted on August 21, 2025.

Who conducted this inspection?

Chicago Department of Public Health

What violations were found during this inspection?

The following violations were documented: INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING DOORS NOT RODENT-PROOFED, 1/4" GAP AT RIGHT CORNER OF LEFT DOOR AT LEARN MAIN ENTRANCE DOOR, 1/2" GAP BETWEEN DOUBLE DOORS NEAR EXIT #2, 1/4" GAP AT BOTTOM CORNERS OF EMERGENCY EXIT DOOR NEAR ROOM 100. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOORS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.; CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.; FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED MILK CRATES USED AS SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE.; PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCETS ON 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED NO RUNNING WATER AT LEFT SINK IN BOYS LOWER-LEVEL WASHROOM. OBSERVED LEAKING VALVE UNDER HAND WASHING SINK IN FIRST FLOOR STAFF WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED - Comments: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLES IN SECOND FLOOR STAFF LOUNGE WASHROOM AND LOWER-LEVEL THORP GIRLS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE COVERED RECEPTACLES IN ALL GIRLS, WOMEN AND UNISEX WASHROOMS.; TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING LAST STALL DOOR IN THORP LOWER-LEVEL GIRLS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED OPENING IN CEILING IN OFFICE, LOOSE BASEBOARDS ALONG WALLS IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: OBSERVED DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELDS IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE ALL DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELDS IN PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.; INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING DOORS NOT RODENT-PROOFED, 1/4" GAP AT RIGHT CORNER OF LEFT DOOR AT LEARN MAIN ENTRANCE DOOR, 1/2" GAP BETWEEN DOUBLE DOORS NEAR EXIT #2, 1/4" GAP AT BOTTOM CORNERS OF EMERGENCY EXIT DOOR NEAR ROOM 100. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOORS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.; CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.; FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED MILK CRATES USED AS SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE.; PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCETS ON 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED NO RUNNING WATER AT LEFT SINK IN BOYS LOWER-LEVEL WASHROOM. OBSERVED LEAKING VALVE UNDER HAND WASHING SINK IN FIRST FLOOR STAFF WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED - Comments: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLES IN SECOND FLOOR STAFF LOUNGE WASHROOM AND LOWER-LEVEL THORP GIRLS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE COVERED RECEPTACLES IN ALL GIRLS, WOMEN AND UNISEX WASHROOMS.; TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING LAST STALL DOOR IN THORP LOWER-LEVEL GIRLS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED OPENING IN CEILING IN OFFICE, LOOSE BASEBOARDS ALONG WALLS IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED CLUTTER IN LEARN AND THORP PRE-K STORAGE CLOSETS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL STOCK OFF FLOOR AND AWAY FROM WALLS FOR EASY CLEANING AND PEST CONTROL.; ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: OBSERVED DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELD IN SERVING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2615734 ON 4-14-24:38- OBSERVED OVER 20 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR INSIDE 4 DOOR CLOSETS AND STORAGE CLOSET IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 101, OVER 20 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR AND SHELVES INSIDE CLOSET IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 103, OVER 20 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON WOODEN TABLE UNDER REFRIGERATOR, ON FLOOR, ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 124, OVER 30 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON ELECTRICAL PANELS ALONG WALLS, ON CARPET, ON FLOOR ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS BEHIND ALL EQUIPMENT IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 126, OVER 10 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 129 STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CALL AN EXTERMINATOR FOR SERVICE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS. PRIORITY 7-42-090; ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED NO SOAP IN BOYS WASHROOM NEAR 172B AND GIRLS WASHOOM NEAR 109. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE SOAP AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C); ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS IN FIRST FLOOR STAFF WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C); INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING DOORS NOT RODENT-PROOFED, 1/4" GAP AT RIGHT CORNER OF LEFT DOOR AT LEARN MAIN ENTRANCE DOOR, 1/2" GAP BETWEEN DOUBLE DOORS NEAR EXIT #2, 1/4" GAP AT BOTTOM CORNERS OF EMERGENCY EXIT DOOR NEAR ROOM 100. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOORS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.; INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED OVER 50 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR INSIDE 4 DOOR CLOSETS AND STORAGE CLOSET IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 101, OVER 20 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR AND SHELVES INSIDE CLOSET IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 103, OVER 30 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR BEHIND FILE CABINET, ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 124, OVER 50 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 126, OVER 20 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR AND SHELVES IN PRE-K CLASSROOM 129 STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CALL AN EXTERMINATOR FOR SERVICE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A); CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.; FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED MILK CRATES USED AS SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE.; PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCETS ON 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED NO RUNNING WATER AT LEFT SINK IN BOYS LOWER-LEVEL WASHROOM. OBSERVED LEAKING VALVE UNDER HAND WASHING SINK IN FIRST FLOOR STAFF WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED - Comments: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLES IN SECOND FLOOR STAFF LOUNGE WASHROOM AND LOWER-LEVEL THORP GIRLS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE COVERED RECEPTACLES IN ALL GIRLS, WOMEN AND UNISEX WASHROOMS.; TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING LAST STALL DOOR IN THORP LOWER-LEVEL GIRLS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED OPENING IN CEILING IN OFFICE, LOOSE BASEBOARDS ALONG WALLS IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED CLUTTER IN LEARN PRE-K STORAGE CLOSETS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL STOCK OFF FLOOR AND AWAY FROM WALLS FOR EASY CLEANING AND PEST CONTROL.; ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: OBSERVED DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELD IN SERVING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED TIMED FAUCETS NOT OPERABLE IN BOYS, GIRLS AND UNISEX WASHROOMS. WATER MUST RUN CONTINIOUSLY FOR AT LEAST 15 SECONDS BEFORE REACTIVATING FAUCET.; INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED 1/4" GAP AT BOTTOM OF FIRE EXIT DOORS NEAR AUDITORIUM AND EXIT DOORS NEAR ROOM 145 IN A BUILDING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOORS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.; PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED NO HOT WATER AT RIGHT SINKS IN THORP SECOND FLOOR BOYS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED CEILING LEAK IN KITCHEN AND KITCHEN OFFICE AREA. OBSERVED WATER DAMAGE AND PEELING PAINT ON CEILING IN KITCHEN OFFICE AND THORP SECOND FLOOR HALLWAY. OBSERVED MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE ON WALLS AND MISSING BASEBOARDS IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2591426 ON 3-21-24, REPORT #2591010 ON 3-14-24:60-PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2573938 ON 4-10-23: 38-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE TORN SCREEN ON DOOR IN KITCHEN .47-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON BOTH 3- DOOR REACH IN COOLERS IN LUNCHROOM.48-OBSERVED NO DRAINBOARD AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. 55-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE IN KITCHEN-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.LUNCHROOM-FLOOR TILES.LEARN PRE-K 101-CEILING IN POOR REPAIR.THORP PRE-K 129- DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.PRE-K 126-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES, WALLS AND CEILING, PRE-K 124-DAMAGED CEILING.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER FLOOR. PRIORITY 7-42-090; ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED NO HOT WATER AT HAND WASHING SINKS IN LEARN PRE-K 101 WASHROOM (75.3F), LEARN PRE-K 103 WASHROOM (75.7F), THORP 127 WASHROOM (77.5F), THORP PRE-K 129 WASHROOM (82.5F), THORP MAIN OFFICE WASHROOM (75.4F) INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AT LEAST 100F WATER AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS. PRIORITY 7-38-030(C); ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED TIMED FAUCETS NOT OPERABLE IN BOYS, GIRLS AND UNISEX WASHROOMS. WATER MUST RUN CONTINIOUSLY FOR AT LEAST 15 SECONDS BEFORE REACTIVATING FAUCET.; INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED 1/4" GAP AT BOTTOM OF FIRE EXIT DOORS NEAR AUDITORIUM AND EXIT DOORS NEAR ROOM 145 IN A BUILDING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOORS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.; PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED NO HOT WATER AT RIGHT SINKS IN THORP SECOND FLOOR BOYS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED CEILING LEAK IN KITCHEN AND KITCHEN OFFICE AREA. OBSERVED WATER DAMAGE AND PEELING PAINT ON CEILING IN KITCHEN OFFICE AND THORP SECOND FLOOR HALLWAY. OBSERVED MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE ON WALLS AND MISSING BASEBOARDS IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2591010 ON3-14-24:60-PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2573938 ON 4-10-23: 38-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE TORN SCREEN ON DOOR IN KITCHEN .47-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON BOTH 3- DOOR REACH IN COOLERS IN LUNCHROOM.48-OBSERVED NO DRAINBOARD AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. 55-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE IN KITCHEN-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.LUNCHROOM-FLOOR TILES.LEARN PRE-K 101-CEILING IN POOR REPAIR.PRE-K 103-CEILING IN POOR REPAIR.THORP PRE-K 129- DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.PRE-K 126-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES, WALLS AND CEILING.PRE-K 124- DAMAGED CEILING.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER FLOOR. PRIORITY 7-42-090; ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED TIMED FAUCETS NOT OPERABLE IN BOYS, GIRLS AND UNISEX WASHROOMS. WATER MUST RUN CONTINIOUSLY FOR AT LEAST 15 SECONDS BEFORE REACTIVATING FAUCET.; ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED NO HOT WATER AT HAND WASHING SINKS IN LEARN PRE-K 101 WASHROOM (75.3F), LEARN PRE-K 103 WASHROOM (75.7F), THORP FIRST FLOOR BOYS WASHROOM (85.2F), FIRST FLOOR GIRLS WASHROOM (86.7F), THORP 127 WASHROOM (77.5F), TOHORP PRE-K 129 WASHROOM (76.5F), THORP SECOND FLOOR GIRLS WASHROOM (69.8F), THORP MAIN OFFICE WASHROOM (73.1F), A BUILDING FIRST FLOOR UNISEX WASHROOM(78.9F), A BUILDING THIRD FLOOR UNISEX WASHROOM (78.8F). INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AT LEAST 100F WATER AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS. PRIORITY 7-38-030(C); ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED HOT WATER ABOVE MAXIMUM OF 120F AT HAND WASHING SINKS IN LEARN FIRST FLOOR GIRLS WASHROOM (122.1F), FIRST FLOOR BOYS WASHOOM (121.5F), SECOND FLOOR GIRLS WASHROOM (121.2F). INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO MAINTAIN HOT WATER AT 100-120F AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C); INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED 1/4" GAP AT BOTTOM OF FIRE EXIT DOORS NEAR AUDITORIUM AND EXIT DOORS NEAR ROOM 145 IN A BUILDING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOORS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.; SINGLE-USE/SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES: PROPERLY STORED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES STORED ON FLOOR IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.; PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED NO HOT WATER AT RIGHT SINKS IN THORP SECOND FLOOR BOYS WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.; TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED - Comments: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN THORP AND A BUILDING UNISEX WASHROOMS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED CEILING LEAK IN KITCHEN AND KITCHEN OFFICE AREA. OBSERVED WATER DAMAGE AND PEELING PAINT ON CEILING IN KITCHEN OFFICE AND THORP SECOND FLOOR HALLWAY. OBSERVED MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE ON WALLS AND MISSING BASEBOARDS IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.; PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2573938 ON 4-10-23: 38-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE TORN SCREEN ON DOOR IN KITCHEN .47-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON BOTH 3- DOOR REACH IN COOLERS IN LUNCHROOM.48-OBSERVED NO DRAINBOARD AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. 55-MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE IN KITCHEN-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.LUNCHROOM-FLOOR TILES.LEARN PRE-K 101-CEILING IN POOR REPAIR.PRE-K 103-CEILING IN POOR REPAIR.THORP PRE-K 129- DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.PRE-K 126-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES, WALLS AND CEILING.PRE-K 124- DAMAGED CEILING.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER FLOOR.; FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS (SQUEEZE BOTTLES)WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.; INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: Inspector Comments: Violation Codes: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE TORN SCREEN ON DOOR IN KITCHEN .; FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON BOTH 3- DOOR REACH IN COOLERS IN LUNCHROOM.; WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED; TEST STRIPS - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: OBSERVED NO DRAINBOARD AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.; NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM LOWER SHELF OF HOT HOLDING UNIT IN KITCHEN.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE IN KITCHEN-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.LUNCH ROOM-FLOOR TILES.LEARN PRE-K 101-CEILING IN POOR REPAIR.PRE-K 103-CEILING IN POOR REPAIR.THORP PRE-K 129- DAMAGED FLOOR TILES.PRE-K 126-DAMAGED FLOOR TILES,WALLS AND CEILING.PRE-K 124- DAMAGED CEILING.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER FLOOR.; PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: Inspector Comments: Violation Codes: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN FOOD SPLATTER FROM CEILING IN KITCHEN.; ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE CRACKED LIGHT SHIELD ON KITCHEN SERVING LINE AND BURNTOUT LIGHTS.LUNCH ROOM & DRYFOOD STORAGE AREA-CRACKED LIGHT SHIELDS.LEARN PRE-K 103-MISSING LIGHT SHIELD.; ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING - Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: Inspector Comments: OBSERVED MISSING FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEE MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN..

Why are these violations concerning?

Improper storage can lead to cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods. Improper storage can lead to cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods. Inadequate sanitization allows bacteria to survive and multiply on food contact surfaces. The CDC identifies poor hand hygiene as a leading contributor to foodborne illness outbreaks. Fecal-oral transmission of pathogens occurs when hands are not properly washed after restroom use. The CDC reports that temperature abuse is a factor in many foodborne illness outbreaks.

Important Health Information

Data Sources

This inspection data is sourced directly from Chicago Department of Public Health. For the most current information, please visit the official health department website.

Federal Guidelines: Our reporting follows standards established by the FDA Food Code, CDC Food Safety Guidelines, and USDA Food Safety Standards.

📖 Food Safety Codes: Reference the specific regulations that govern this establishment: Chicago Food Code, FDA Food Code 2022

⚠️ Important Note: Restaurant conditions can change rapidly. This inspection represents a snapshot in time and may not reflect current conditions. For the most up-to-date information, consider checking recent reviews or contacting the establishment directly.

Complete Inspection History

View all health inspections, pass rates, and violation history for THORP ELEM/LEARN CHARTER

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