Incident investigation·January 9, 2025

On January 9, 2025, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Amanda Sutter met with Director Sherry Velte for an unannounced Case Management inspection. LPA observed 74 children supervised by 27 staff. On November 21, 2024, Director submitted an Unusual Incident Report (UIR) that stated that a child (C1) was served a snack item on 11/18/2024 that he was allergic to. After being picked up by his parent, C1 began vomiting and had diarrhea, and was taken to the hospital for IV fluids. Director stated that as of today, the child is doing much better and has returned to the center. LPA interviewed Staff 1 (S1), who stated that at the time of the incident, she was sitting with the children for meal time. She had requested the child’s lunch bag from another staff person. The child’s lunch bag was labeled and the wrong lunch bag was grabbed. The child ate an animal cracker cookie, and then a staff member noticed that his lunch was still in the refrigerator. The child was then provided the correct lunch bag. LPA asked if S1 knew that the child had allergies and she stated that at the time, children’s meal preferences and allergies were written on a piece of paper taped to the table. In regards to this child, the notice only specified that C1 brought his own lunch. LPA asked if the Associate Teacher in the classroom at the time (S2) was aware of C1’s allergies, and S1 stated that she did not know. S2 no longer works at the facility. Director stated that S2 was aware of the child's allergies. Since the incident, Director has implemented a new food allergy policy. Children with food allergies have their lunches kept separate from other children’s lunches. Both student staff and their supervisors must sign off verifying that the child has been provided the correct meal before it is given to them. LPA observed this paperwork and was provided a copy. PAGE 1. CONTINUED ON LIC812-C This is an amended report. Based on the inspection, one Title 22 Deficiency has been issued on the attached LIC 809-D. The director was informed that this report dated 1/9/2025 documents one Type A citation which shall be posted for 30 consecutive days. The director shall also provide a copy of this licensing report to parents/guardians of all children currently enrolled by the next business day or the next day the children are in care, and to any newly enrolled parents/guardians for 12 months from the date of this report. A signed Acknowledgement of Receipt of Licensing Report (LIC 9224), or other written statement, must be placed in the child's file for verification. Director has been provided with appeal rights. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with Director Sherry Velte. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days.