complaint·June 20, 2023

Page 2 During the investigation LPA interviewed Director, two staff present at the time of the incident, retrieve video recording, obtained the facility roster, and took pictures of the facility inside/outside. Pictures were taken of two classrooms, outside play yard, gates with broken latches, and the parking lot. On 5/16/2023, LPA interview Staff #3 (S3), Staff #1 (S1) and Staff #2 (S2). S3 stated Child #1 (C1) was on the playground when S2 exited the play yard to retrieve a broom to sweep. When S2 returned to the play yard, S2 didn’t place the self-made latch back on the gate. When S2 back was turned, C1 walked out the playground gate, then walked out the second gate near the entrance and went into the parking lot. S3 stated C1 was missing and unsupervised for five minutes. During staff interviews, S1 and S2 both stated C1 was missing for five minutes and was brought back onto the playground by the church security guard. On 5/16/2023, LPA retrieved the video recording pertaining to the incident showing C1 leaving the playground and walking onto the parking lot. Based on video evidence, it was determined, C1 was missing for five minutes and was found near the middle of the parking lot by delivery lady who works for a linen company. The delivery lady notified church security who then brought C1 back to the preschool playground. While touring the outdoor areas of the facility, LPA observed broken latches on the playground gate and entrance gate. The playground gate is kept closed by a self-made PVC latch and the entrance gate is being kept closed by a metal U-bolt. Director was reminded, the playground shall be enclosed by a fence to protect children and to keep them in the outdoor activity area. Director stated parts for the gates were ordered and repairs are scheduled to be made. Parents were interviewed on 5/18/2023 via phone call. Out of 14 parents contacted, nine were able to be interviewed. Parents interviewed did not divulge any information regarding the allegations. On 6/20/2023, LPA observed the playground gate has not been repaired. The facility continues to utilize a self-made PVC latch to keep children from leaving the playground. S3 stated they have purchased a self-latching gate latch and will have it installed on the playground gate to avoid a similar incident where the staff forgot to place the self-made latch back on the gate. LPA observed repairs have been made to the front entrance gate. Continue to Page 3 Page 3 Based on LPA observations, video recording, interview with Director, S1 and S2 who all stated C1 was missing and unsupervised for five minutes, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore, the above allegations are found to be SUBSTANTIATED. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division & Chapter 12, is being cited on the attached LIC 9099D for the deficiency section 101229 Responsibility for Providing Care and Supervision and 101238 Buildings and Grounds . LPA Thompson informed Director Svetlana Melnik that this report dated 6/20/2023 document(s) two Type A citation 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 Director Svetlana Melnik to provide a copy of this licensing report dated 6/20/2023 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 the Director Svetlana Melnik. 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 and deficiencies were discussed. The facility representative 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.