Incident investigation·November 1, 2023

On November 1, 2023, Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Monique Ayala and Staicy Perry conducted an unannounced case management inspection. The purpose of the inspection is to follow up on an incident that occurred on 10/06/2023 and was reported to the department in a timely manner. A COVID-19 risk assessment was conducted prior to entering the facility. LPAs met with director, Cecile Keatly who guided LPAs on a tour of the facility. LPAs observed 56 children with 12 teachers. Brief summary: On 10/05/23 Child #1 (C1) was left alone in the classroom for about 5 minutes. Staff #1 (S1) noticed C1 was alone sitting at the table when she came back to get materials. S1 took C1 to join the class after. During the inspection LPAs interviewed Staff #1 (S1) and Staff #2 (S2). C1 was unable to be interviewed as C1 was not able to be qualified. Per S1, while head outside at approximately 4:50pm she conducted a head count of the children. Per S1 while outside, S2 went into the classroom where C1 was found sitting on a chair crying stating, "teacher left me". S2, corroborated what S1 stated in the interview conducted. Per S1 she had 5 children under her care during the time of the incident. Based on interviews and self reporting of the incident the facility is being cited a Type A deficiency in accordance with Title 22 Regulation code, Responsibility for Providing Care and Supervision 101229(a)(1). Upon receipt of this report, the licensee shall post ANY licensing report documenting a type “A” citation. This must remain posted for 30 days during hours of operation. In addition to posting this report, the licensee will also provide copies to the parents of the children in care for up to one year. A copy of the LIC 9224 - Acknowledgement of Receipt of Licensing Reports was provided to the Director. A notice of site visit was provided and must remain posted for 30 days. Exit interview was conducted with Director. Appeal rights explained & provided.