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Inspection visit

Routine inspection

DESERT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY PRESCHOOLLicense 3348052921 citation on this visit
1 citation recorded

Inspector’s narrative

What the inspector wrote

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Hayley McCarthy conducted an unannounced annual inspection on September 17, 2025 at 09:42AM. LPA met with Director Lindsay Tolman, who provided a tour of the preschool center. During the inspection, several key facility items were observed and updated where necessary. These included the facility's license, the Emergency Disaster Plan (LIC610) and Earthquake Preparedness Checklist (LIC9148), the Parent’s Rights Poster (PUB393), Personal Rights (LIC613A), the Child Car Seat Law notice, and the menu. The facility was found to be operating within the limits stated on its license, and staff-to-child ratios were observed to be 1 teacher to 10 children. Classrooms were adequately equipped with age- and size-appropriate furniture and materials, ensuring a safe and hazard-free environment. The facility representative confirmed that no weapons were present on the premises. During today's inspection, the following was observed: The pool is surrounded by a 57 in chain link fence on 3 sides and a 60 inch brick wall on one side with a maximum vertical clearance of two inches from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure; there are no gaps or voids which would allow the passage of a sphere with a diameter equal to or greater than four inches; there are no outside surface protrusions, cavities or other physical characteristics that would serve as a handhold or foothold enabling a child to climb over. LPA verified the gate opens away from the swimming pool and is self-closing with a self-latching, with a key lockable device placed 43 inches above the ground. There is no pool alarm in the pool in compliance with ASTM International Standard F2208. LPA verified there is a life ring with a minimum exterior diameter of 17 inches and labeled as approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and a rescue pole with a body hook that does not meet the fixed 12 foot regulation at 6 ft 7 in. Both are visible from the swimming pool and readily available for use. The facility does not yet maintain a daily pool inspection log. The fencing does not meet Title 22 Regulations. LPA reviewed the pool regulations with the director who understands that the facility pool must be brought into compliance. Medications, disinfectants, cleaning solutions, and other hazardous materials were stored in locations inaccessible to children, while poisons and toxins were securely locked away. The facility’s floors were observed to be safe and clean, and bathroom facilities were sanitary and in proper working condition. The playgrounds were enclosed by a secure, six-foot wrought iron fence surrounding the perimeter of the center. The fencing included passcode secured gates and were free of hazards. Outdoor activity areas contained age- and size-appropriate equipment in good condition. The food preparation area was clean, free of litter and pests, and all food was properly stored to prevent contamination. The facility provides snacks and children bring their own lunches. Storage containers for solid waste had tight-fitting covers, which were kept on and in good repair. The sign-in/sign-out records were reviewed and found to be in compliance with regulations. Disaster drills are conducted at least every six months, with the most recent drill occurring on August 7, 2025. A review of staff and children’s records was conducted as part of this evaluation. Children's records were complete, and staff records confirmed that all present staff met the minimum qualifications for their respective positions. 1 staff had an expired mandated reporter. 5 of 5 staff members on-site held current Pediatric CPR/First Aid certifications, with expiration dates recorded. Both the opening and closing staff members also had valid CPR/First Aid certifications. The Director had completed Health and Safety Training. Additionally, a review of staff records confirmed that all facility staff and other individuals requiring caregiver background checks had received criminal record and child abuse index clearances or exemptions. The Director was reminded that all adults over the age of 18, including employees and volunteers (except as specified in Health and Safety Code section 1596.871), must obtain a criminal record clearance or exemption before their initial presence in the Child Care Center. A civil penalty of $100 per day for up to five days, or up to 30 days for repeat violations, may be assessed for noncompliance. This facility provides IMS. LPA reviewed the storage of medications and equipment/supplies, as well as children's, personnel, and administrative records. Additional IMS information is available in PIN 22-02-CCP. The Director was also provided with information regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including the U.S. Department of Justice (USDOJ) toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice) or (800) 514-0383 (TTY). Additional information is available at Commonly Asked Questions about Child Care Centers and the ADA . The Director was informed about MyChildCarePlan.org , a consumer education website that connects families with child care providers and Resource & Referral Agencies (R&Rs) throughout California. Licensing forms and regulations for Child Care Centers are available on the Department’s website at www.ccld.ca.gov . Providers can also subscribe to receive updates by entering their email under "Receive Important Updates" on the website. LPA reviewed reporting requirements with the Director, emphasizing that any unusual incidents or injuries must be reported within 24 hours via phone and within seven days in writing. Reports may be submitted by calling the Duty Officer at (951) 782-4200 or emailing UnusualIncidentReportsDO10@dss.ca.gov . To improve the quality and value of the inspection process, a survey may be sent to the provided email. The Director is encouraged to complete the survey and provide feedback on the inspection experience. Any questions regarding the inspection process or CARE tools may be directed to inspectionprocess@dss.ca.gov . Additional details about the inspection process can be found at www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/community-care-licensing/inspection-process . See 809-D page for cited deficiencies. A Notice of Site Visit was provided and must remain posted for 30 days. An exit interview was conducted, and this report was reviewed with Lindsay Tolman. Appeal rights were discussed and provided during the exit interview.

Citations

1 citation recorded*CCLD

What does Type A vs Type B mean?

Type A. Serious citation. Imminent or substantial risk to children. The regulator requires corrective action immediately and may impose a civil penalty.

Type B. Lower-severity citation. Corrective action required, no imminent risk. The regulator monitors compliance on the next visit.

  • 1596.814(b)Type B

    Based on observation, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above in that the pool did not meet the requirements which poses/posed a potential health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care.

FAQ · About this visit

Common questions about this visit

What happened during the September 17, 2025 inspection of DESERT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY PRESCHOOL?

This was a inspection inspection of DESERT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY PRESCHOOL on September 17, 2025. 1 citation were issued: 1 Type B.

Were any citations issued to DESERT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY PRESCHOOL on September 17, 2025?

Yes, 1 citation was issued (0 Type A, 1 Type B). The first citation was for: "Based on observation, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above in that the pool did not meet the require..."

What type of inspection was this?

This was a inspection inspection. inspection inspections are conducted by CCLD as part of their licensing oversight.

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