Incident investigation·October 12, 2021

On October 12, 2021 at 9:48am Licensing Program Analysts (LPA) Zirbes, Stepanyan and Licensing Program Manager (LPM) Ramon met with Assistant Director Krista Ribbons to conduct an unannounced case management inspection. The purpose of the case management was to follow up on a self-reported unusual incident report (UIR) submitted on to the Department on October 6, 2021. The unusual incident report was regarding a supervision incident involving staff 1 and child 1. Upon arrival, there were 41 children and 8 staff present at the facility. During this inspection, interviews were conducted with staff and children. In addition, LPA's reviewed staff and children files including the facility video surveillance camera. Furthermore, LPA's also completed a safety inspection of the Center at approximately 10:00am. Based on interviews and record, it was determined that C1 was left unsupervised in the breezeway of the facility for approximately three minutes. The incident occurred while two classrooms were transitioning from the outdoor play area to the classroom. A total of 17 children and three staff members were present when the incident occurred. 16 children and the three staff members walked through the door leading to the indoor area, however C1 did not enter the building and was left unattended in the breezeway. After approximately three minutes, staff 4 observed C1 and escorted C1 to the classroom. Statements obtained during the interviews disclosed that the breezeway is a secure area and children do not have access to exit the facility from the breezeway. Although the Administration took appropriate action to address staff 1's conduct, the care and supervision violation did occur. A deficiency is being cited based on interviews and record review, in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 22, see LIC 809D. An exit interview was conducted, where the plan of correction was reviewed and developed with Krista Ribbons, Assistant Director. A copy of this report and appeal rights were discussed with the Assistant Director.