complaint·January 19, 2022

LPA reviewed facility records and found that three memos were issued to the staff on 07/21/2021, 08/06/2021, and 09/17/2021, reminding staff that masks must be worn at all times while indoors. Today, LPA observed signage at the entrance to the facility indicating that a mask or face covering is required. LPA provided Director Stephens with a copy of PIN 21-29-CCP: Face Covering Requirements and Guidance for Child Care Providers Regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). LPA and Director Stephens discussed the requirement for all adults to wear face coverings while indoors, regardless of vaccination status, unless an individual medical exception applies. Furthermore, children age two and older must be encouraged, taught, and reminded to wear face coverings while indoors, except when eating or napping. LPA emphasized that the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has not authorized licensees, parents, or guardians to waive the child care face coverings requirement. LPA reviewed the facility’s “Emergency Response Plan” for COVID-19 and found that the facility is following other COVID-19 safety measures, including performing symptoms screenings and health checks, cleaning and sanitizing using EPA-approved products, and encouraging frequent hand washing. Based upon observations, and information gathered through interviews, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be substantiated. Per California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 1, this deficiency is being cited on the attached LIC 9099-D. An exit interview conducted with Director Yvette Stephens. A copy of this report and Appeal Rights were provided and discussed with Director Stephens. A Notice of Site Visit Form was posted to parent's board and must remain posted for 30 days. The investigation revealed through interviews, LPA’s observations, and review of records, that although the above allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence at this time to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is unsubstantiated. Per California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 1, no deficiency is cited during today's visit. An exit interview conducted with Director Yvette Stephens. A copy of this report and Appeal Rights were provided and discussed with Director Stephens. A Notice of Site Visit Form was posted on parent's board and must remain posted for 30 days.