Incident investigation·June 24, 2025

On June 24, 2025 Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Staicy Perry conducted an unannounced Case Management incident inspection at the facility due to a self reported unusual incident report received by the department on May 5, 2025. Upon arrival, LPA Perry met with Lead Teacher Desiree Villa and Associate Director of Education Ana Marquardt. The purpose of the visit was explained.During the inspection, LPA Perry observed 4 staff members supervising 4 children . The facility was operating within its licensed capacity and maintaining appropriate staff-to-child ratios. The report concerned an incident that allegedly occurred on May 1, 2025, involving Child #1. According to the parent, the child stated that Staff #2 had spanked them and reported that their “butt was hurting.” LPA Perry conducted interviews with staff members who were present at the time of the alleged incident. Written declarations were obtained, and the facility’s internal investigation documentation was reviewed and other pertinent documents regarding the alleged incident. It was disclosed during the visit that the facility had also became aware that it was reported to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). According to Associate Director Ana, LAPD officers reviewed and investigated and indicated that the report was inconclusive, citing a lack of evidence and no indication abuse observed in the facility’s surveillance recordings. LPA Perry made efforts to follow up with LAPD to confirm the details of their findings, however, those attempts were unsuccessful as no return contact was received by the time of the inspection report. Per Ana she will provide LPA with report once received. Associate Director Ana confirmed that surveillance footage from the entire day of May 1, 2025, as well as several surrounding days, was reviewed internally. No inappropriate contact or indication of physical discipline was observed. However, per facility policy, video footage is not available for release and therefore could not be reviewed directly by LPA Perry. All staff interviews and declarations reviewed were consistent and did not corroborate the allegation. No staff member reported witnessing any physical discipline or concerning conduct by Staff #2 or any other employee. LPA Perry also reviewed California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Section 101212(d), with Associate Director Marquette. This regulation requires that any unusual incidents including suspected abuse or any event that threatens the health or safety of a child must be reported to the Department within the required timeframe. LPA Perry informed Ana the importance of maintaining clear documentation and internal protocols for compliance with Title 22 requirements. Based on the information obtained during the inspection including staff interviews, review of internal documentation, and discussion of procedures there is no evidence to substantiate a violation of Title 22 regulations. The facility is currently operating in compliance, and no deficiencies are being cited. A Notice of Site Visit was issued and must be posted prominently at the facility for 30 days. Failure to comply with posting requirements may result in a $100 civil penalty. Exit interview was conducted with Deserie Villa, Lead Teacher & Ana Marquardt Associate Director of Education.