complaint·June 21, 2023

Director denied that one teacher was left alone with more than 12 children. Director stated that if needed children will be moved to different classrooms to maintain ratio. Staff 1(S1) stated that staff has never been left alone with more than 12 children. S1 also stated that there is another staff assigned to work in the same classroom. S1 also stated that, when there are more than 12 children in the classroom, the excess will be moved to another classroom that is low in numbers. Staff 2(S2) denied ever out of ratio. S2 stated that another teacher is in the classroom and that there are usually between 12-14 children present. Staff 3(S3) stated that there are no more than 12 children in the classroom but if needed another staff will come to assist. Staff 4(S4) denies ever being left alone with more than 12 children. S2 stated that she works with another staff in her classroom. Staff 5(S5) stated that there were a few times, that S5 was out of ratio with 1-2 extra children for a couple of minutes if staff was not available. Parent(s) interviewed, stated that they don’t have any issues with the facility. Parents also stated that they have not seen any teacher/ratio issue and stated that they keep a check of their numbers and that the front office staff will assist as needed. A review of staff timesheets and children sign in/out sheets for the two-week period reflect that there were between 32-42 children in care, and between 4-5 teachers and 1 aide present plus director and front office staff. A review of teachers’ file reflected teachers have the educational transcripts and are qualified. Based on the above, although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is unsubstantiated. An exit interview conducted with Enoka Attale. Copy of report provided and Notice of Site Visit provided and shall be posted for 30 days in an area accessible for review. Director stated that unqualified staff were never left alone with children. Director provided transcripts for the teachers. Teachers interviewed stated that they are qualified teachers. However, a review of teachers’ transcripts reflected that staff 2 (S2)’s transcripts are from a foreign country and have not been evaluated by an approved agency prior to being hired as required. This agency has investigated the complaint alleging staff providing care and supervision without the required qualifications . Based on LPA's interview and record review which was conducted, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be substantiated. California Code of Regulations, Title 22 are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D. An exit interview conducted with Enoka Attale. Copy of report provided and Notice of Site Visit provided and shall be posted for 30 days in an area accessible for review