complaint·February 23, 2022

LPA observed a box of disposable face masks available at the sign-in desk for parents/authorized representatives who forgot to bring their masks as well as a sign at the front door indicating that masks are required to enter the building. LPA informed Director Conley that evidence had been received indicating that a facility employee had been inside one of the classrooms, performing maintenance duties, without a face covering. Director could not recall the incident and stated that it may have slipped passed them, but all adults are asked to wear a mask when indoors at the facility. LPA advised Director to train staff to remind adults they witness without face coverings to wear one, especially because Directors are not always present at the front desk and may not be able to remind every adult entering the facility to wear a mask. In summary, facility staff are encouraging some children to wear face coverings while indoors, all staff are wearing face coverings while indoors, and visitors are being reminded to wear face coverings when entering the facility. Masks are available for all adults and children at the facility. The facility is notifying parents/authorized representatives of COVID-19 exposures in writing and through an electronic notification system. The facility is following Fresno County Public Health Department guidance on notification, which is to notify families if there was exposure to the facility within the previous 48 hours of the exposure. LPA obtained copies of the notifications provided to families on 01/11/2022 notifying of a staff member who tested positive for COVID-19 and on 01/12/2022 notifying of children who tested positive for COVID-19. In the notifications, the identity of the individuals remained anonymous, but indicated which classrooms the exposures were in. The notifications were sent to all parents/authorized representatives. LPA provided Directors with a copy of PIN 21-29-CCP: Face Covering Requirements and Guidance for Child Care Providers Regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) issued on 11/23/2021, which notifies licensees and providers about updated guidance and requirements from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Cal/OSHA which apply to all child care licensees, providers, and staff. This PIN also notes that CDPH has not authorized licensees, parents, or guardians to waive the child care face covering requirements. (Continued on LIC 9099-C) 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 Directors, Amy Conley and Crystal Eskelson. A copy of this report and Appeal Rights were provided and discussed with Directors. A Notice of Site Visit Form was posted on parent's board and must remain posted for 30 days.