Office review·June 30, 2023

On 6/30/2023 at 1:48pm, Licensing Program Manager (LPM) Deborah Mullen and Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Jeanette Sanchez and Lorena Valenzuela conducted an Office Conference with Licensee/Director America Figueroa. The following was addressed: 1. Teacher Qualifications 2. Supervision of Children 3. Adherence to Program Statement 4. Reporting Requirements 5. Personal Rights Regarding teacher qualifications: Ms. Figueroa expressed a misunderstanding of teacher aide qualifications but acknowledged that LPA provided regulations during visit on April 27, 2023, which clarified the qualifications required. Regarding supervision of children: Ms. Figueroa has implemented radios for better communication between teachers on the playground and the Director. In addition, she watches the live video feed to monitor appropriate supervision by staff. Ms. Figueroa also provided supervision training to staff. Regarding adhering to the program statement: Ms. Figueroa said to better manage challenging behaviors, will create a plan with parents on managing behaviors. Children also have a 30 day trial period, during which the facility evaluates their ability to meet the needs of the children. Ms. Figueroa is currently revising the parent handbook to update the behavior policy and will submit a copy to Department for review prior to implementation. Regarding reporting requirements: LPM and LPAs provided clarification as to which incidents should be reported. Ms. Figueroa stated has provided training to staff regarding completion and submission of incident reports to the Department. Regarding personal rights: Ms. Figueroa has met with staff to discuss appropriate interactions with children and importance of communicating to Director if staff need assistance with managing challenging behaviors. In addition, outside training was provided to staff on communicating with children and parents. Ongoing small group training is being provided to staff. Upon request from licensee, LPA will email the link to Title 22 Regulations. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report was provided to Licensee/Director America Figueroa.