Routine inspection·December 1, 2022

On 12/1/22 at 9:00 AM Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Monica Mathur and Christina Watts conducted an unannounced Annual Inspection at Alice's Montessori Learning Center Walnut Creek. LPAs met with Director, Meghna Katechia and explained the purpose of today's inspection. Facility's operating days and hours are Monday to Friday from 7 am - 6 pm in 3 Rooms. There were 33 children with 7 staff present. The physical plant was inspected and LPAs toured the premises with the Director. Indoor space: Classrooms, common restroom were inspected. Facility was in compliance with teacher child ratios during inspection. Children were engaged in various activities under the visual supervision of the teachers. Disinfectants, cleaning solutions, and other items dangerous to the health and safety of children were stored in places inaccessible to them. Cabinets, drawers, and rooms used for storage were locked. Furniture and equipment were age appropriate and in good condition, free of sharp, loose, or pointed parts. Restroom for children were observed to be in safe, sanitary, and functioning condition. Floors were clean and free from tripping hazard. Foods and beverages were stored safely. Trash cans for solid waste had tight-fitting covers on and were in good repair. There is a fish tank, turtle and gecko terrariums in the rooms. LPA observed a working Fire extinguisher, Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors. Log shows that the last Fire Drill was conducted in November 2022. Facility does not provide transportation for children, but Director understands that children cannot be left alone, unattended in parked vehicles. Required postings were observed to be posted. Outdoor space was inspected and observed to be fenced and safe. Playground is separated into 2 areas - structure and lunch table area. The play equipment was maintained in good condition and free of hazards. Areas around and under high climbing equipment and slides were cushioned with material that absorbs falls. Shade is provided and there were no bodies of water observed. Drinking water is arranged to be readily available to children during indoor and outdoor activities. File Review: Children sign in and out procedures and logs were reviewed. A sample of children and staff files was taken for review. All files contained required documents. There was at least one teacher with current certification in Pediatric CPR/First Aid present at the facility during inspection. Children's Roster was reviewed Incidental Medical Services (IMS) policy was discussed. For IMS information see Evaluator Manual - Regulation Interpretations and Procedures for Child Care Centers Sections 101173 and 101226. When any IMS is provided, an updated Plan of Operation that includes IMS must be submitted to the Department . The following information regarding ADA was provided: US Department of Justice (USDOJ) toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice)/ (800) 514-0383 (TTY) and link to publication: Commonly Asked Questions about Child Care Centers and the ADA, available at: http://www.ada.gov/childqanda.htm Director was reminded that all adults 18 and over, including employees and volunteers, must obtain a criminal record clearance or exemption, or transfer their existing clearance or exemption, prior to initial presence in a Child Care Center. A civil penalty of $100.00 minimum/day up to $500.00 maximum per day/per person will be assessed if this regulation is violated. Director was reminded Lead Testing needs to be completed and submitted before January 1, 2023. Licensee, Alice Perez and her daughter/staff Teresa Perez arrived at the facility. Director, Meghna had to leave early for the day. To improve the quality and value of the new inspection process, a survey will be sent to the email address provided. Please complete the survey and share your inspection experience. If you have any questions regarding the process or tools, please send them by email to inspectionprocess@dss.ca.gov . For additional information regarding the inspection and its tools and methods, please visit the Program website at www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/community-care-licensing/process . In the areas that were evaluated, regulatory violation was observed. Deficiency cited on page 809-D. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with Teresa Perez. A NOTICE OF SITE VISIT was given and must remain posted for 30 days.