complaint·March 9, 2023

Page 2 The complaint specified the facility is always in short supply of diapers and paper towels. Complainant also states the facility has rats in and around the classrooms. During LPA’s initial 10-day visit on 01/04/2023 and subsequent visit on 02/01/2023, Director and eight (8) staff were interviewed. 7 out of 8 staff members stated they are aware of the rodent issue at the facility. 2 out of 8 staff members stated they witnessed a rodent in their classroom and provided LPA with a photo of rat droppings dated 12/12/2022. Once discovered, the facility remedied the situation. Based on LPA’s observations during both visits, no visible signs of pests were observed. During staff interviews, 5 out of 8 staff members confirmed they are out of ratio on a regular basis. Staff stated they notify the Director immediately when they have too many children in care but usually must wait on average about 15 minutes before receiving assistance. LPA attempted to contact eight (8) parents for interviews but was only able to conduct five (5) interviews. 1 out of 5 parents stated they were concerned if the children were being properly supervised because classrooms are being combined due to attendance issues and high turnover of staff. 6 out of 8 staff members stated there is a supply shortage for classroom necessities. Staff stated that requests for supplies are put in a month in advance but can take days to weeks to receive. When there is a delay, staff will purchase items with their own money. Staff members stated classrooms that need diapers for children that are not toilet trained are always in dire need. These specific classrooms will ask one another to borrow diapers when they are running low. Director informed LPA that on occasion, she will borrow diapers from a sister school. Director stated there is limit to the facility’s supply budget and the facility also does not have the storage space. Director provided LPA with the facility “Family Handbook” which is given to parents upon enrollment. Page 24 states families are responsible for providing diapers and wipes for children to accommodate the child’s needs and replenish all items, as needed. Director states the facility provides parents with an option, not located in the handbook, to include a $13.00 fee in the monthly tuition payment for the facility to provide diapers and wipes. All families with children not toilet trained have elected to pay the fee and depend on the facility to provide the diapers and wipes. Continue to page 3 Page 3 Based on LPAs record review and all interviews conducted, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegations #1 facility has pests, #2 facility was out of ratio, #3 facility does not have adequate materials and supplies is found to be substantiated. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12 deficiencies are being cited on the attached LIC9099D. LPA Castanon informed Director Andrea Silva that this report dated 03/09/2023 documents one Type A citation which shall be posted for 30 consecutive days as there are immediate risks to the health, safety, or personal rights of children in care. LPA Castanon also informed the Director to provide a copy of this licensing report dated 03/09/2023 that documents any Type A citations 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 was conducted with Director Andrea Silva. Notice of Site Visit was posted during the visit. Director was informed that the notice of site visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. Failure to post will result in civil penalties of $100. Director was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. First level appeals should be sent to the regional manager to the address listed above. End of Report