Complaint·January 19, 2024

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Dayna Chambers conducted an unannounced complaint inspection on January 19, 2024. LPA arrived at the facility at 9:00am and met with Shannon Bautista, Director, for the purpose of delivering findings for the above allegations. Also present was Mona Sangani, Owner and Jocelyne Luna, Assistant Director. LPA toured the facility with Shannon Bautista. LPA observed 13 staff and 103 children in care upon arrival. Classrooms: Classroom #2 (ages: early 4’s-with 12 children and 1 staff), Classroom #3 –(ages 2) with 14 children and 3 staff, Classroom #4 (toddler component -ages 18months to 3 years) and 2 staff, Classroom #5 (ages 3-4 years) with 24 children and 3 staff, Classroom #7 (ages 2-3 years) with 18 children and 2 staff , Classroom #8 (ages 4-5 years) with 23 children and 2 staff. During the investigation, LPA Chambers conducted interviews, reviewed records, and made observations regarding the above allegation. The complaint alleges that a staff member pinched a child on shoulder twice. Per interviews, the center’s discipline policy is to talk to the children and offer an alternate activity and when needed, speak with parents regarding disciplinary issues. Although allegations were made, evidence obtained did not reveal any witnesses or supporting evidence and interviews conducted did not corroborate the allegations. Staff denied observing any staff member pinch any child in care. LPA interviewed 6 parents out of 19 parents. The Interviews did not disclose any concerns. Parents stated their children have not mentioned any concerns while attending the center. LPA was unable to interview any eyewitness to the alleged violation. The allegation that staff pinched a child on shoulder is unsubstantiated. Based on the information obtained, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that personal rights were violated. The allegation may have happened or is valid, but there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. Appeal rights were provided and discussed with the facility representative. A Notice of Site Visit (LIC 9213) was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Exit interview was conducted and report was reviewed with Shannon Bautista, Director.