complaint·November 16, 2023

On inspection conducted on 09/01/23 director explained multiple staff are assigned as facility drivers. The following was alleged: It was reported that Staff do not transport children in a safe manner, staff are operating out of ratio and unqualified staff are supervising children. LPA investigated the above allegations and gathered the following information: On or about 08/2023, It was alleged that children at the facility expressed being afraid of Staff N.1's driving. It was disclosed by pertinent parties that staff drives "too fast and goes over the speed limit". Interviews were conducted with a limited number of staff who work as teacher(s)/and drive facility vehicles. Children were not available for interviews. Director expressed that "disgruntled employees" who no longer work at the facility have been submitting multiple complaints for this site without reasonable basis which affects the center’s credibility, reputation and stability. The department was provided with a limited amount of information pertaining to the identification of some of the children in care. Children records were requested during the initial inspection to confirm identification; however, director refused to provide record s without specific last name and age s of the children. There was a delay in the LPA being granted immediate access into the facility. Management was contacted due to director’s responses and attitude toward the Department. Therefore, LPA was unable to proceed with the inspection and verify if the facility was operati ng within Title 22 ratio s . It was also stated that an unqualified teacher was providing care and supervision alone to daycare children without a qualified teacher being present. It was also disclosed that the teacher assistant was left alone on multiple occasions. LPA was unable to confirm qualifications due to the limited amount of records that were provided. Based on limited information obtained during the investigation, there is conflicting information regarding the allegations. Although allegations may have happened or are valid, there is no preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation(s) did or did not occur, therefore allegations are deemed Unsubstantiated at this time. Director refused to sign report and electronic copy was left on site. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with facility Director, Karen Brazzi ll. Notice of Site Visit was given and must remain posted on, or immediately adjacent to the interior of the main door for 30 days. Failure to comply with posting requirements shall result in an immediate civil penalty of $100.