Facility-requested visit·February 16, 2023

On 2/16/2023 Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Jillinda Chandler made an announced visit to VOA The Learning Center Head Start, for the purpose of conducting a "Case Management - Licensee Initiated/increase in capacity, in addition to adding a toddler option. The applicant is requesting an increase in capacity from 34 to 49. The program will consist of 34 preschool children; ages 3- 5 years and 15 toddlers; ages 2.9 - 3 years. There are 2 class rooms currently licensed for the preschoolers (#1 and 2), the toddler component operations will be conducted in room 18 ( directly across from rooms 1 and 2). LPA met with Edie Smith (Area Manager) who provided a tour of the additional classroom and outdoor activity area. The school is located on the St. Marks Presbyterian Church campus. There is an approved fire clearance on file conducted by Michael Judkins of the L.A. County Fire prevention Bureau The following was observed of the: INDOOR ACTIVITY SPACE Fire extinguishers were 2AB10C , last inspected on 2/2/2023 Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors were observed, and there is a fire alarm system out side of the classroom. First aid kits were available with the required essentials: scissors, bandages, tweezers, and thermometer Age appropriate equipment was observed in good repair Drinking water will be provided through filtered water dispensers The facility has central heating and cooling. Windows were in good repair free of chipping paint, dirt, insects or debris Adequate lighting was observed The classrooms were clean in good repair. Cots were observed in good repair Trash cans used for solid waste were observed with tight fitting lids Disinfectants and cleaning solution and other toxins or poisons were not present during today inspection. The office and the staff restroom will be used for isolation of ill children The facility was equipped with a working telephones The required postings were also posted in a common area for parents and visitors review Measurements for the additional classroom was 776.12 divided by 35 SQ. FT. per child = 22 toddler children FOOD SERVICE: Lunches and snacks are provided by the center, lunches are prepared and delivered by the programs main kitchen. Menus were observed.The toddler class was equipped with refrigeration, the refrigerator was equipped with a thermostat, and in good condition. Center provide Incidental Medical Service, and has a plan that is provide to parents of children with allergies (epi-pen), asthmatic (inhalers), and children needing G-tube feeding RESTROOMS THERE WERE: 2 sinks = 1 sink per 15 children for a total of 30 children 1 toilet = 1 toilet per 15 children for a total of 15 children, applicant was informed that potty chairs can be used if needed ( 1 potty per 5 children). LPA observed 2 ( changing tables within arms reach of a sink) Toilets and sinks were age appropriate The restrooms were clean and sanitized with the necessary toiletries, sinks and toilets were operable and in good repair. Faucets delivered cold water. OUTDOOR ACTIVITY SPACE The toddler out door activity space is located to the left of the classroom The play yard gated with a 4 inch or higher gate, there are 2 separate section to this space. Both were measured and inspected. No hazardous conditions were observed during today\342\200\231s visit. The center will use portable toys and equipment during outdoor activities. Applicant shall provide invoices for toys and equipment to be used. Water pitchers will be available for an outdoor water source LPA observed trees for shade. Applicant shall provide additional shading, to be used when trees are not in bloom and portable benches shall be made readily available. Measurements for the outdoor activity area were 2674.60 divided by 75 sq. ft. per child for a capacity total of 35 children. Based on today\342\200\231s inspection the facility shall be recommended for an increase in capacity of 15 toddlers and 34 preschool children for a total of 49 determined by the request of the applicant. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Area Manager - Edie Smith.