complaint·November 7, 2024

On 8/16/24 LPA E. Laird conducted interviews with two witnesses (W1, W2). Both witnesses interviewed stated they had witnessed children being "bullied" and staff did not intervene. Both witnesses stated they had observed children being physically harmed by other children while staff stood by and did nothing to stop the behavior. On 10/30/24 LPA E. Laird conducted five parent interviews (P1-P5). Of the five parents interviewed, four stated they had heard of children being bullied at the facility but had never witnessed it. Two of the parents interviewed stated they had seen staff on their phones while supervising children. Both parents stated the use of phones appeared to be for personal use. On 8/21/24 and 11/7/24 LPA E. Laird interviewed six staff (S1-S6). All staff interviewed denied children are being bullied at the facility. Three staff interviewed stated some of the children in care have "big behaviors" and are still learning how to manage their emotions, but staff always help the children by redirecting. Of the staff interviewed, there were staff who had observed staff using personal phones while supervising children. On 8/21/24 and 11/7/24 LPA E. Laird observed staff on the playground with children. LPA Laird did not observe staff on their phones. LPA Laird observed staff actively engaged with the children in care. Although staff were observed on their phones, there is not enough evidence to determine it interfered with their ability to supervise children in care. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred, and the findings are unsubstantiated. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the site supervisor, Sharon Willett. Appeal rights were provided. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Failure to comply with posting requirements shall result in an immediate civil penalty of $100.