complaint·September 22, 2021

The LPA interviewed Witnesses (W1 – W5) and the witnesses expressed that the facility tried under the circumstances by hydrating the kids, though W1/W2 both stated that the facility should have brought in portable A/C units and more fans. The conditions led to bad naps and the first few days were uncomfortable for the kids and if the conditions had continued, they would have started to complain. The LPA interviewed staff (S1-S6) and the staff indicated that Monday 8/30 and Tuesday 8/31 were the warmest days and children were kept inside because the air qualify was poor due to fires. Staff indicated children were sweaty and naps were shorter due to discomfort from the heat. Staff also brought in personal fans for air circulation and provided water, and opened doors from area’s that still have A/C working, for ventilation. Staff considered calling parents on the afternoon of Tuesday 8/31 due to warmth and humidity but realized most pick up between 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm and it was already within that time frame when they observed the room temperature hit 86 degrees F. The LPA reviewed Accu Weather for recorded high temperatures for Chico for the week of Aug 30 – Sept 3 rd , the days the A/C unit was down. The 2 hottest days recorded were Monday 8/30/21, which reached 99 degrees F and Tue 8/31/21 which reached 93 degrees F. These were also the days that the air quality was poor due to smoke so the children could not play outside, per staff interviews. Staff interviews also supported these were the hottest days and most problematic days when children presented as sweaty, pink faced and irritable due to short naps. Staff did utilize fans, provided extra water, opened doors to areas that had cool air to increase ventilation. However, even with these efforts staff recorded the indoor temperature to be 86 degrees F at 4:47 pm (photo) in the Whales classroom on Tue 8/31/21 and the facility is open until 5:30 pm. Staff did not take a temperature on Monday 8/30/21 which was a hotter day and staff interviews support that the Pirates room air temperature was hotter to the touch then the Whales room, though the Pirates room does not have a thermostat. By mid-week the facility started taking air temperatures and put up signage to notify parents and were able to manage with the cooling outdoor air temperatures and better air quality allowing for outdoor activities. Based on the evidence obtained, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be substantiated. Notice of Site Visit shall be posted for 30 days from today's visit.