complaint·September 19, 2024

On 7/25/24 LPA Laird observed video footage. Upon review, LPA Laird observed children on the playground with approximately 3 staff present. Staff appeared to check phones periodically, but not excessively and not in a manner which seemed to impact their supervision of children. On 8/8/24 and 9/16/24 LPA Laird conducted interviews with two staff (S1, S2). Both staff interviewed denied staff are not providing adequate supervision to children. One staff interviewed stated they use their personal phones to access the Learning Genie app. Staff stated the the app is used to log movement of children and to communicate with parents. Staff denied their use of the app hinders their ability to supervise children in care. Both staff interviewed stated there was a time during a wild fire when they were checking their phones more frequently to monitor air quality, evacuation notices, and communicate with parents. Both staff stated whenever they need to take a personal call, they are relieved by another staff and take a break outside of the classroom. On 9/16/24 LPA Laird conducted interviews with two parents (P1, P2). Both parents interviewed denied staff are not providing adequate supervision to children. One parent interviewed stated staff communicate with them via the Learning Genie app. One parent interviewed stated they had observed staff on their phone logging something on the app. One parent stated the staff always stop and acknowledge them and the children when they're logging something on their phones. Both parents stated they feel the staff are engaged with the children. On 9/19/24 LPA Laird conducted three children interviews (C1-C3). All children interviewed stated they like their school and their teachers. Two children interviewed stated they have never seen teachers on their phone. One child stated they saw teachers on their phone "working". Although staff may have been on their phones during work hours, there is no evidence which suggests it interfered with their ability to supervise children, therefore, the findings are unsubstantiated. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with director Kathleen Corbett. 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.