complaint·September 17, 2024

(Page 2) During the investigation, LPA Garcia interviewed 8 staff, 4 children, 5 parents, and reviewed children\342\200\231s roster, personnel report, parent handbook, 06/20/24 incident documentation, and class schedules. During staff interviews on 07/30/24, LPA asked If staff observed any staff handling children in a rough manner. Staff 1 (S1) stated, \342\200\234A staff that is not here anymore. I heard about certain things, but it wasn\342\200\231t something I hadn\342\200\231t seen directly\342\200\246I do not remember when they were let go. It was a while ago. It wasn\342\200\231t super recent.\342\200\235 Staff 2 (S2) stated, \342\200\234We all kind of handle the children in a calm way. Like I said before assessing the situation in a tough way. We are all very similar, I think. The number one thing in my minds and the other teacher mind is the children and making sure they are okay.\342\200\235 Staff 3 (S3), Staff 4 (S4), Staff 5 (S5), Staff 8 (S8) stated, \342\200\234No\342\200\235 when asked if they observed staff handling children in a rough manner. Staff 6 (S6) staffed, \342\200\234Not to my knowledge. I do not know if it was documented. There may have been documentation. I apologize. I am trying to remember. I did not write it, but I remember seeing it. I am sorry I am trying to recall.\342\200\235 Staff 7 (S7) stated, \342\200\234None of those. We did get a report of a child, it was communication in the classroom of this is what is going on. That was brought up to our attention\342\200\246 We spoke with a teacher about what one teacher said and they are other. We did take notes. We try to take notes of anything that is reported to us. I would. It would be in the folders.\342\200\235 When LPA asked about discipline policy, 8 out of 8 staff stated they redirect the children. LPA reviewed documentation from an incident that occurred on 06/20/24 between S3 and a child. S3 told the child, \342\200\234We don't hit teachers then she modeled by showing her hand and the smacking motion to her own hand."We don't do that, this hurts" she stated that she took in the back room to prevent him from hurting himself because he throws himself on the ground.\342\200\235 The document states, \342\200\234S6 and S7 spoke to S3 about redirecting children when challenging behavior is occurring. We explained that we can remove toys if they are being used in unsafe ways but we added that we always give children the option to get a different toy or suggest a different activity. Additionally, S6 added that we must always be professional and mindful of our tone when speaking to children and staff.\342\200\235 The document was signed by S3, S6, and S7. (continue to page 3) (Page 3) During children\342\200\231s interviews on 07/30/24, when LPA asked the children if a teacher ever yelled at your or your friend, Child 1 (C1) stated, \342\200\234No.\342\200\235 Child 3 (C3) stated, \342\200\234only one time\342\200\235 and when LPA asked if they remember when C3 said, \342\200\234No.\342\200\235 LPA asked C3 how it made them feel and C3 said, \342\200\234Sad.\342\200\235 When LPA asked who yelled at you, C3 stated, \342\200\234S1.\342\200\235 Child 4 (C4) stated, \342\200\234Yes,\342\200\235 when asked if a teacher yelled at them. LPA provided follow up questions like how it make them feel and C4 said, \342\200\234Happy because I like my teachers.\342\200\235 LPA asked if C4 remembered who yelled at them and C4 asked what yelling is. LPA asked a second time if C4 had been yelled at by anyone or a teacher and C4 stated, \342\200\234Nope.\342\200\235 LPA Garcia contacted 5 parents. 3 out of 5 parents were interviewed and made no disclosures about the allegations. LPA attempted to contact 2 out of 5 parents but was unable to interview them. Based on LPA observations, record review, and interviews, there is an insufficient amount of evidence to corroborate the allegations that staff handled child in a rough manner. Although the allegation(s) may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation(s) did or did not occur, therefore, the above allegation(s) is found to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Director Karen Villanueva-Diaz. 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 were explained. The Director was provided a copy of appeal rights (LIC 9058 01/16) 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. First level appeals should be sent to the regional manager to the address listed above. End of Report