Incident investigation·July 5, 2023

Licensing Program Analysts (LPA) Romy Castanon and LPA Mila Quinto conducted a case management inspection to follow up on a self-reported incident that was submitted to CCL Regional Licensing Office on 03/09/2023. LPA met with Assistant Director Sarah Kim Lee and discussed the reason for today’s visit. A tour of 4 infant classrooms was conducted and census was taken. Observed at the time of the visit was a total of 24 infant/toddlers and 11 staff members. A review of the Facility Personnel Report Summary on 07/05/2023 indicates all facility staff or other individuals who require caregiver background checks have received criminal record and child abuse index clearances or exemptions. Director submitted an unusual incident report on 03/09/2023 regarding personal rights violations to children in care by Staff #1 (S1). Director was informed by Staff #5 after witnessing aggressive behavior towards children. Director interviewed six additional staff separately, who were all able to corroborate the allegation statements. Director contacted Child Protective Services (CPS) but was referred to the Orange County Sherriff’s Department (OCSD) to file a report. LPA interviewed Director and four staff members during visit on 03/16/2023. Director stated the staff are trained upon hire and are provided refresher trainings on a regular basis throughout their tenure at the facility. These trainings include managing children’s behavior, positive guidance, redirection, as well as appropriate responses to difficult behaviors. 4 out of 4 staff members heard S1 speak to children inappropriately on one or more occasions. All staff clarified that if children cried, they were already crying before interaction with S1 and not as a result. 2 out of 4 staff members observed S1 rough handle children in care by grabbing them by their arm. Staff members checked the children for visible signs of injuries, and none were observed. 3 out of 4 staff members stated they made previous management aware of S1’s behavior. Continue to Page 2 Page 2 On 5/11/2023, LPA interviewed three parents. Two parents were unavailable for interview. 3 out of 3 parents spoke highly of the facility. 2 out of 3 parents stated they were made aware of the above allegations by the facility. 1 out of 3 parents were still concerned about their child’s safety. LPA requested and received a copy of an informational report that was taken on 03/09/2023 by the OCSD. LPA also received a follow up report from OCSD from 03/17/2023 to document S1’s behavior toward facility staff. Based on LPA’s interviews with Director, staff and parents, the following deficiency is being cited in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12, 101223(a)(3) Personal Rights is being cited on the attached LIC9099D. Exit interview was conducted with Assistant Director Sarah Kim Lee. The Notice of Site Visit was posted, and Director was informed that the Notice of Site Visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. Director was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. End of Report