complaint·October 26, 2021

Per Director, the facility re-opened only after receiving numerous requests from essential workers in the community who needed childcare. LPA also obtained consistent statements that staff always wear masks while children are in care. During subsequent unannounced inspections, LPA observed no children wearing masks while indoors. LPA also observed staff to be wearing masks consistently both indoors and outdoors. All staff interviewed provided consistent statements that on days that a child does come to school wearing a mask, parents request that staff not enforce proper mask wearing and/or adjustment and to store the mask in the child\342\200\231s backpack when removed. Director added that they often find children\342\200\231s masks discarded or strewn about throughout the facility. Director also provided a copy of their COVID-policy given to all parents prior to or during enrolment which clearly states that \342\200\234students are not required to wear a mask. However, if you would like your child to wear a mask, it must be taken home daily to be laundered and your child must understand how to properly wear it and carefully store it during eating, napping and playing outside on the playground. (Staff will wear masks).\342\200\235 During subsequent unannounced inspections, LPA observed that staff are following DPH COVID guidelines regarding sign in procedures, daily health checks/screenings, posted signs and the sanitizing and disinfecting of the facility. The Director also provided an affidavit signed by parents after learning of the complaint which states that they \342\200\234do not want all enrolled students at Faith Daycare Center and Preschool to wear masks while indoors.\342\200\235 Based on the LPA\342\200\231s own observation and information obtained through the interviews of parents, children and staff, this agency has investigated the complaint alleging \342\200\234staff are not adhering to COVID-19 mask protocol\342\200\235 and found that the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. California Code of Regulations, (Title 22, Division & Chapter) relating to this allegation have been cited on attached LIC 9099-D. Based on LPA's investigation and information gathered, a Type B citation is being issued today which indicates a potential risk to the health and safety of children in care. Deficiencies are cited in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12. LPA also provided a Technical Advisory regarding the need to amend the facility\342\200\231s COVID Policies and Procedures issued to parents that states parents are not allowed entry into the facility. PG 2 of 3 A Notice of Site Visit was issued to Site Director who was reminded that it must remain posted for a period or 30 days. Failure to keep notice posted will result in a civil penalty of $100.00 CCL must follow the current State Health Officer order and State Guidance for Child Care Providers and Programs which requires masks indoors in K-12 schools, childcare and other youth settings. Please refer to the California Public Health Officer Order fund via this link: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Ordr-of-the-State-Public-Health-Officer-Beyond-Blueprint.aspx Exit interview conducted and a copy of this report was signed by Director, Nancy Lira