complaint·April 2, 2025

During an interview with the Director, it was revealed that on March 6, 2025, Child 1 (C1) expressed being upset and, while speaking with the Director, stated that Staff 1 (S1) had pushed them. Upon reviewing surveillance footage of the classroom, the Director observed S1 using inappropriate hand movement with C1. LPA Katrdzhyan also reviewed the surveillance video and did not observe S1 hitting C1 but observed S1 moving C1's hand in a quick manner that was concerning. The statements obtained from the Director were found to be consistent with the footage. The Director also mentioned a prior incident involving Child 2 (C2) and S1 where C2's personal rights may have been violated by S1. Following the incident with C1, S1 was placed on administrative leave on March 6, 2025. Per the Director, in order to avoid future possible concerns, S1's employment was terminated effective March 10, 2025. During interviews of staff, it was disclosed that S1 would yell at children for misbehavior or for spilling food. This was identified as an ongoing issue. During the interview with C1, they reported that S1 would frequently yell at them for not completing assigned tasks. Additionally, C1 described an incident in which S1 grabbed their arm and pushed them. During the interview with C2, they described S1 as being "mean" when C2 was unable to complete their work. It was also reported that S1 would occasionally yell at C2. Based on LPA’s observations and interviews which were conducted and record reviews, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegations are found to be Substantiated. California Code of Regulations, (Title 22, Division & Chapter number), are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D. The Notice of Site Visit was provided and must remain posted for 30 days during the hours of operation after each site visit by a licensing representative. Failure to maintain posting as required will result in a civil penalty of $100.00. Exit interview was conducted with Jacqueline Batres and Appeals Rights provided.