Complaint·May 7, 2025

Based on record review, there were at least 3 confirmed cases of preschool children who were infected with pink eye or conjunctivitis. Based on interviews with staff, staff stated there were confirmed cases of pink eye or conjunctivitis between students and teachers during the week of 2/21/25. Staff stated they did not notify the department about the infectious disease within 24hrs or by written report within 7 days of incidents or outbreak. During the course of this investigation, it was discovered that facility staff 7 (S7) smelled like cannabis or marijuana while children are in care. During an interview with Adult 1 (A1), A1 stated they could smell in the room and Staff 7 (S7) smelled like cannabis. S7 stated they do not use cannabis or marijuana during operating hours. S7 stated the smell was stuck on the shirt that they wore and they will ensure they will change their clothes prior to arriving at the facility so this does not happen again. Based on record review, there was a warning notice from the facility in S7’s file about drug and alcohol use that violated thire employee handbook. None of the children interviewed disclosed any information that supported the allegations. Based on observations, records reviewed and interviews conducted, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the allegations were SUBSTANTIATED. A substantiated finding means the allegations were valid because the preponderance of the evidence standard has been met. See LIC9099D for 3 Type B deficiencies cited. An exit interview was conducted, report and deficiencies were reviewed and discussed with Director, Cynthia Estep. The Notice of Site Visit was posted during the visit. The director was informed that the Notice of Site Visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. The director was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058 01/16) (1) The facility informed the Department on 2/21/25 about the director change in the facility. (2) Staff interviewed stated they are always in ratio and would use their walkie talkie to ask for backup. Based on observation, the facility is operating within its licensed capacity and compliance staffing ratios (3) Staff interviewed stated they have not witness any unqualified staff providing care or being left alone with day care children. Based on observation and record review, staff present during the complaint inspection are qualified to supervise children. (4) Based on LPA’s observation, there is adequate shading in the preschool yard, there is the side by the wall and classroom that provides shade to outdoor area. (5) LPA observed there is adequate cushioning like sand and grass in the climbing structure enough to absorb falls. (6) During the course of this investigation, there was a concern from an adult that children are not properly cleaned and wiped while in care. Based on staff interviews, staff stated they change the children while standing up and makes sure they clean the area properly. Staff stated they check the diapers at the end of the day and log them in the app for parents to see. Based on observations, conflicting information, interviews conducted, and records reviewed, the preponderance of evidence standard has not been met. Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur, therefore the allegations were UNSUBSTANTIATED. An exit interview was conducted, report was reviewed and discussed with Director, Cynthia Estep. The Notice of Site Visit was posted during the visit. The director was informed that the Notice of Site Visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. The director was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058 01/16)