Complaint·April 11, 2024

Allegation 1) Staff is racist toward children in care. The complainant did not provide any contact information; an interview with the complainant was not possible. The complaint did not contain details about the allegations. On 1/29/2024, the LPA interviewed six staff during the initial visit. All six staff denied the allegations happened. All staff consistently stated the children are treated equally and provided access to the same materials and spaces as other children in the same classroom. On 3/20/2024, the LPAs called nine parents requesting an interview. Four parents were reached. The parents interviewed did not express any concerns related to the allegations and did not provide any information that could corroborate the allegations. The rest of the parents did not respond to the Department\342\200\231s request for an interview. On 1/29/2024, the LPA observed the classroom and interactions between staff and children for about 30 minutes. There were no indications that the staff were prejudiced against any child or group of children. The children in attendance were from diverse backgrounds. All children were included in the same activity. The children responded positively to the staff. Allegation 2) Staff left a child in soiled clothing for a long time. On 1/29/2024, the LPA interviewed six staff during the initial visit. All six staff denied the allegations happened. All staff consistently described the protocol for diaper checks, diaper changes, and potty-training efforts. On 3/20/2024, the LPAs called nine parents requesting an interview. Four parents were reached. The parents interviewed did not express any concerns related to the allegations and did not provide any information that could corroborate the allegations. The rest of the parents did not respond to the Department\342\200\231s request for an interview. On 1/29/2024, the LPA observed the classroom and interactions between staff and children for about 30 minutes. The LPA observed staff encouraging children to use the restroom before nap time. The director stated that no parent has ever complained about a child left in soiled clothing for a long time. The director indicated there are no incident reports. Based on the interviews conducted, the preponderance of evidence standard has not been met. Although the allegations listed above 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 are unsubstantiated. An exit interview was conducted with Director Ishara Silva. 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. Failure to post will result in civil penalties of $100. The director was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058 01/16) 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.