Framingham Public Schools currently uses school choice. McCarthy is located near downtown Framingham and across the street from Fuller Middle School on Flagg Drive. The school's hours are earlier than the other Framingham Public schools elementary schools at 8:15am to 2:15pm.

It is known as the "Literary Arts" School. The school published a student literary magazine, holds monthly book swaps, and the PTO distributes two free books to all students. Students in grades k-5 participate in a Book It! Reading Incentive Program and students in grades 4-5 participate in the Massachusetts Book Awards program.

The School's Principal is Matt Hanlon. McCarthy Elementary is a Title 1 school. The school has several services for students including: SAGE, ABA therapy, occupational and physical therapy, speech therapy, and other special education services. About one in every three students receives special education services.

Originally McCarthy was the Warren Oaks School (1952), named after two neighboring streets. in 1969, the community re-named the school to Miriam F. McCarthy,  after its first principal (1952 - 1969.)

McCarthy Elementary has been nominated as a National Blue Ribbon School and a State Compass School.

McCarthy Elementary has a very active PTO, which holds a very popular Pumpkin Fair every October. The PTO also holds two Book Bingos, a popular Monster Mash dance, and an interactive Math Night, and several other events. PTO Meetings are typically held the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the school caf. The PTO provides FREE babysitting for the meetings.

The YMCA offers an after-care program on site, for an additional fee.