complaint·August 29, 2023

There is an allegation that children are not being served correct portions of food. During course of investigation, LPA conducted multiple visits and observed that the menu was being followed, and contained all basic food groups. In addition, per interviews conducted, LPA confirmed that staff would provide additional food to the children upon request and would ensure children would eat their entire meal, including the fruits/vegetables. Child interviews were also conducted and LPA could not corroborate allegation. The second allegation is that staff are yelled at in the presence of children. Pertinent interviews revealed that the male owner of the facility speaks in a stern voice and has a strict demeanor. Further interviews indicated that he was perceived as being strict; however, LPA could not corroborate any incidents where he was rude or yelled at staff in the presence of children. Additional evidence was submitted for review, but LPA could not corroborate allegation as it did not reveal any discrepancies. The third allegation is the classroom is not kept at a comfortable temperature. Interviews have revealed that the classroom is not as cold as the preschool 1 and when staff are constantly moving and being active, the classroom feels warm. Thermostat reading of the classroom reflects as 20 degrees below the outside temperature. The classroom was observed to have curtains drawn to keep the temperature cool. The facility kitchen is located in the center of the preschool classroom, which emits warmth when meals are being prepared. The next allegation Children are served expired milk. The interviews and observation of the facility food products revealed that the milk being served is not expired. Interviews revealed that the staff would ensure milk is checked to ensure it’s not expired and would also take additional precautions, such as smelling the milk before serving, since it is provided in a pitcher and poured directly into their cups. From the information received by interviews with staff, and facility documents the above allegations cannot be verified. Although the allegations may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the allegations did or did not occur, therefore, the allegations are UNSUBSTANTIATED. An exit interview was conducted, a Notice of Site Visit posted, and a copy of this report was provided to the facility on this date and time.