Incident investigation·May 31, 2024

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Lilia Hernandez conducted an unannounced case management inspection due to an incident that occurred on 04/19/2024. LPA arrived at the facility at 8:55AM and met with Sheila Hardy, Principal, who guided LPA on a tour of the facility. There were 94 children and 23 staff present upon arrival. The purpose of the visit was to follow-up on an incident that was reported to the department. The incident that occurred on 04/19/2024, was reported to the Department on 04/22/2024, via telephone. The facility reported the Unusual Incident to the Department within the required 24 hours of occurrence. LPA conducted interviews and obtained documentation during this visit. Information reported to the Department indicated that during snack time, Staff #4 removed Child#1 from their classroom because Child#1 used their middle finger as a gesture. As a form of discipline, Staff #4 removed Child #1 from their classroom without consent from Staff #1. Staff#4 disclosed that they took Child#1 to Staff # 3 and told Child #1 tell Staff #3 what finger they gestured with. Staff #3 stated Child#1 was biting the side of their finger, tears on their face saying "I want my mommy." Based on information LPA obtained from interviews conducted, written statements and statement of admission from Staff#4, it was determined that the personal rights of Child #1 were violated when Child #1 was removed from their classroom during snack time as a form of discipline for gesturing with their middle finger. This was an immediate risk to the health and safety of children in care. The following deficiencies listed on the attached LIC 809D are being cited in accordance with California Code of Regulations Title 22. ---Page 1 of 2 A copy of this report shall be provided to the parent/guardian of children currently enrolled by the next business day or immediately upon return. A copy of this report shall also be provided to the parent/guardian of any newly enrolled children for the next 12 months (1 year). The Acknowledgement form must be maintained in each child\342\200\231s file immediately upon receipt from parent. A copy of the LIC 9224 Acknowledgement of Receipt of Licensing Reports was provided during this visit. The Notice of Site Visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days during the hours of operation after each site visit by a licensing representative. Exit interview was conducted and report was reviewed with Sheila Taylor-Hardy, Principal . ---Page 2 of 2