Incident investigation·May 7, 2026

On 05/07/26 at 12:30pm, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Diana Ortiz conducted an unannounced Case Management-Incident Report visit. LPA met with Assistant Director Adriana Benavidez, who guided LPA on a tour of the facility. LPA observed 26 children and five (5) staff present during this visit. At approximately 12:45pm, Director Adetayo Akiwowo arrived. The department received an unusual incident report on 04/20/26 via telephone for an incident that occurred on 04/20/26, and the written report was received on 04/23/26 via email. Per Title 22 Regulations the report was reported in a timely manner. During today’s visit, LPA conducted interviews with Director, and one (1) staff. LPA observed the classroom where the incident occurred. LPA toured the facility and observed six (6) air purifiers throughout the facility (pictures were taken). Director and Staff #1 reported that on Sunday, 04/19/26, the City of Claremont notified administration that an HVAC system on the community center side of the building had overheated and caused smoke inside the facility, although no fire occurred. Because the incident happened on a Sunday while the facility was closed, no staff or children were present. Parents were notified the same day regarding the initial closure for Monday, 04/20/26, and were later informed that the facility would remain closed for the rest of the week to allow for repairs, air quality testing, and extensive cleaning. Staff #1 also reported the incident to Licensing on 04/20/26. Both staff stated that the city conducted multiple air quality tests that indicated the facility was safe to resume operations, and additional cleaning measures included professional deep cleaning of air ducts, floors, carpets, toys, cots, and bedding, discarding exposed food, and notifying the insurance provider. Both staff stated they believed the facility was safe and in good condition to resume normal daily activities. Page 1 of 2 After interviews, observation of the areas and documentation of the incident, it was determined that staff were unable to prevent the incident from happening; therefore, there is no preponderance of evidence to determine that a regulatory violation occurred, the incident was determined to be an accident. No deficiencies or civil penalties are being cited at this time. A notice of site visit was provided, and appeal rights were provided and discussed. Exit interview conducted and report reviewed with Director, Adetayo Akiwowo. Page 2 of 2