complaint·October 13, 2023

(page 2) RP also reported the screen inside of the infant classroom is ripped and that there is an infant climbing structure near the window, and that day-care children can put their arms through the screen, and that it's possible that mice can enter through the screen as well. During the investigation LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff members, 5 parents, conducted a facility inspection, took pictures, and reviewed the children’s roster. During the investigation, Staff #1 (S1) was interviewed on 09/05/23. S1 stated Staff #2 (S2) informed S1 of mouse sighting on 08/29/2023. S2 informed S1 seeing a mouse in a hole in the wall located at the top corner of the infant classroom. S1 stated she went into the classroom to inspect hole and called a pest control specialist to do a rodent inspection. S1 provided LPA Lucero with rodent inspection invoice. Rodent inspection occurred on 08/29/2023 at 7:34 PM. S1 stated during rodent inspection, S1 and pest control specialist did not observe any mice or animal droppings inside the classroom. S1 stated after the inspection, S1 patched up the hole in the corner of the room and the pest control specialist placed child safety mouse traps on the outside by the facility entrance gates. S1 stated this is the first time the facility has ever observed any mice. S1 informed all parents via app about mouse found in the facility and has asked for parents to look through the lost and found clothing pile and take clothing that may belong to their children home before clothing is donated to eliminate any attractions or possible hiding places for mice. S1 provided LPA with message sent to parents. On 09/05/2023, LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff. 3 out of 6 staff stated they observed a mouse at the facility on 08/29/2023. 6 out of 6 staff stated this is the first time they have ever observed or heard from another staff about a mouse in the facility. S1 stated it is possible the mouse came from the park that is located next to the facility due to the heavy rains. On 09/05/2023, LPA inspected infant classroom and the outdoor infant play yard. LPA did not observe any mice or animal droppings at the facility. LPA observed child proof mouse traps located outside the facility entrance gate. During the room inspection, LPA observed a window screen that was partially torn open at the right bottom corner. Window is located above foam climbing block equipment that is used by infants. LPA also observed patched hole at the top corner of the infant room. (continue to page 3) (page 3) On 09/20/2023 LPA attempted to interview 6 parents, however only 5 parents were available for interview. Parents interviewed made no disclosures. LPA did not interview children due to infants being nonverbal. Based on LPA’s facility inspection, observations, interviews conducted with 6 staff members, 5 parents, and records reviewed, it has been determined (1) staff did not keep facility free of mice and (2) Facility window is in disrepair. Therefore, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be Substantiated. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, 101238(a)(1) Buildings and Grounds and 101239(b) Fixtures, Furniture, Equipment and Supplies is being cited on the attached LIC 9099D. Exit interview was conducted. Notice of Site Visit was posted during the visit. Director Nina Betonte 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 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. End of Report. (page 2) During the investigation LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff members, 5 parents, conducted a facility inspection, and reviewed the children’s roster. During the investigation on 09/05/2023, LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff. Only 2 out of 6 staff interviewed stated mice droppings were observed outside in the infant play area and in the breeze way but were cleaned and removed immediately and area was disinfected by staff before the infants were in the area. On 09/05/2023, LPA inspected the infant classroom, floor corners of the classrooms, inside the cabinets, and the infant play yard. LPA did not observe any mice droppings at the facility. On 09/19/2023 LPA attempted to interview 6 parents, however only 5 parents were available for interview. 5 parents interviewed stated they are satisfied with the childcare facility, and do not have any concerns. LPA did not conduct children interviews due to infants’ age and infants being nonverbal. Based on LPAs facility inspection, interviews conducted with 6 staff and 5 parents, it has been determined there was insufficient evidence that staff do not remove mice droppings. Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is Unsubstantiated. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Director Nina Betonte. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Appeal Rights were explained. The Licensee 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.