Incident investigation·October 25, 2023

On 10/25/2023, Licensing Program Analysts (LPA\342\200\231s) Dean Thompson and Karen Navar conducted an unannounced case management incident inspection in response to a self-report Unusual Incident dated 9/8/2023. LPA met with teacher Heidi Argent at 9:29 a.m. When LPA\342\200\231s arrived, LPA\342\200\231s observed 14 preschool age children with 1 preschool age staff. 101216.3 Teacher-Child Ratio (a) There shall be a ratio of one teacher visually observing and supervising no more than 12 children in attendance. A review of staff criminal clearance records on this date indicates that all facility staff or other individuals who require caregiver background checks have received criminal record and child abuse index clearances or exemptions. On 9/8/2023 a self-reported Unusual Incident Report (UIR) was filed with the Licensing Office. The facility reported that the classroom teacher grabbed two students by the arms. Another witness indicated that the staff member had grabbed students on another day. Witnesses indicated that the teacher turned the lights off in the classroom and left the students in the dark. Witnesses also reported that the teacher yelled at parents and students. During the investigation, LPA interviewed staff, interviewed parents, and obtained documentation. Based on supporting information received and interviews, children\342\200\231s personal rights were violated. The following deficiencies were observed and cited today per CA Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12 (See LIC 809-D for specific deficiencies). Continue to Page 2 Page 2 Type A citation LPA Thompson informed facility representative Heidi Argent that this report dated 10/25/2023 document(s) two Type A citation(s) which shall be posted for 30 consecutive days as there is/are immediate risk(s) to the health, safety, or personal rights of children in care. Also, LPA Thompson informed the facility representative Heidi Argent to provide a copy of this licensing report dated 10/25/2023 that documents any Type A citation(s) to parents/guardians of all children currently enrolled by the next business day or the next day the children are in care, and to any newly enrolled parents/guardians for 12 months from the date of this report. A signed Acknowledgement of Receipt of Licensing Report (LIC 9224), or other written statement, must be placed in the child's file for verification. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with Heidi Argent . A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Failure to comply with posting requirements shall result in an immediate civil penalty of $100. Appeal Rights discussed. Heidi Argent was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. All appeals must be in writing and received by the Regional Office within 15 business days.