complaint·November 22, 2022

LPA did not observe any safety latches on the kitchen drawers or under the sink. LPA also inspected the bathroom utilized by the children for inaccessibility of chemicals/toxins and other potential hazards to children in care. LPA observed that the sink cabinet in the Pre-K classroom had a broken lock and did not have latches and the contents of the cabinet are easily accessible to day care children. On 11/03/2022, LPA conducted interviews with 4 facility staff who stated that they don’t allow kids in the children and they keep the kitchen door closed. Based on interviews conducted with Director, 4 facility staff, LPA’s observations, and photo of kitchen sink cabinet with 5 Clorox bottles, the allegations that harmful chemicals are accessible to day care children and facility has no/broken cabinet locks are substantiated. A finding that the complaint is substantiated means that the allegation is valid because the preponderance of the evidence standard has been met. California Code of Regulations, (Title 22, Division & Chapter number), are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D. The deficiency is also cleared today and Letter of Deficiency Citations Cleared is provided on 11/22/2022. On 10/13/2022, LPA received an email from Administrator Lana Costache showing proof of photos of installed protective mechanisms. LPA observed photos of installed child protection mechanisms on the kitchen door, kitchen cabinet, and bathroom cabinets. LPA observed a child-proof knob cover on the kitchen door and child safety latches on the kitchen cabinet and bathroom cabinets during the site visit on 11/03/2022. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report, Appeal Rights, Letter of Deficiency Citations Cleared, and Notice of Site Visit were provided to Director Martina Beltran.