FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
TESS M. MCKENZIE EARLY LEARNING CAMPUS Fails Health Inspection - Chicago Children's services facility
TESS M. MCKENZIE EARLY LEARNING CAMPUS
4301 S WABASH AVE, CHICAGO 60653
Children's Services Facility
November 10, 2025
License
License #2906056
5
Total Violations
2
Critical
3
Minor
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
5
Violation #36
MINOR
Violation Details
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING THERMOMETER IN REFRIGERATION UNIT LOCATED IN CLASSROOM NEXT TO ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE, NOTED THERMOMETER INOPERABLE IN PREP REFRIGERATOR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN PROPERLY WORKING THERMOMETERS.
Why This Matters
Inadequate lighting prevents detection of contamination and pests.
Food Code Requirement
Adequate protected lighting required in all areas.
Specific Requirements
50 foot-candles at prep surfaces; 20 foot-candles at 30 inches in storage; Shielded bulbs over exposed food; Clean fixtures.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11
Violation #50
CRITICAL
Violation Details
HOT & COLD WATER AVAILABLE; ADEQUATE PRESSURE - Comments: OBERVED NO HOT OR COLD RUNNING WATER THOUGHOUT FACILITY AT HANDSINKS, 3 COMPARTMENT SINK OR WASHBOWLS DURING TIME OF INSPECTION.UNABLE TO FLUSH TOILETS, WASH HANDS OR PREPARE FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AS REQUIRED. PRIORITY VIOLATION. #7-38-030 (C). CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Without proper water temperatures, cannot sanitize or clean properly.
Food Code Requirement
Adequate hot and cold running water required.
Specific Requirements
Hot water 120°F minimum at fixtures; Cold water available; Sufficient pressure; From approved source.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-103.11
Violation #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED TOILET INSIDE TODDLER ROOM INOPERABLE AND COVERED WITH CARDBOARD. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
Why This Matters
Backflow can contaminate entire water supply with sewage or chemicals.
Food Code Requirement
Plumbing must be properly installed with backflow prevention.
Specific Requirements
Air gaps at fixtures; Backflow preventers on connections; No cross-connections; Annual testing of devices; Proper drainage.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.13
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED WALL BASE LOCATED IN PREP AREA IN DISREPAIR, DETACHED AND MENDED WITH TAPE. INSTUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED WALL BASE LOCATED IN PREP AREA IN DISREPAIR, DETACHED AND MENDED WITH TAPE. INSTUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Health Department Information
Department
Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Division
Food Protection Program
Report Issues
Call 311 or File Online
More Information
CDPH Food Protection