complaint·November 22, 2023

It is also alleged an infant was also seen chewing a rock; size and type of rock was not described by the witness, however it was reported that there was a construction site on the back of the facility. Information was discussed with the facility administrators. Per facility Director, Alisa Holtegarrd, center had been under renovation for couple of weeks and parents “seem to be thrilled” with the new upcoming preschool playground. Construction started on 09/07/2023 to install the new playground equipment and artificial grass. Per information provided by administration, parents and visitors at the facility were immediately informed upon entering the facility of the renovation project; since this site has infant, preschool and school age programs and they were all affected when the project initiated. Per Director, administration staff verbally informed parents of the changes and new ways to enter classrooms as the flow of traffic had to be shifted due to the construction project in progress. Facility did not have signage on the door for parents and visitors until 09/21/2023. Staff denies the allegation and reports not having any reported incidents of infant(s) chewing rocks. However, although staff have no recollection of the incident, it is typical that children in this age range and cognitive stage explore their environments by taking things from their hands to their mouths. During inspection conducted on 09/21/2023, LPA observed the infant playground adjacent to the new preschool playground area. Both playgrounds are separated by a black iron fence with bars; the fencing has a space of approximately 3” inches across. Director explained that barriers were placed on all playground fences and/or covered to avoid construction debris crossing over into other areas. However, it was acknowledged as a possibility due to the air blowing across the playground. As LPA entered the infant playground, teacher to child ratio was 1:4. A teacher was observed cleaning discharge from an infant’s nose, two other teachers were next to three other infants who were observed by LPA playing on the opposite corner of the playground next to the iron fence. Infants were seen happily pulling grass and having dirt on their hands, as they were exploring the texture of all the elements around them. Due to the age of infants, no interviews were conducted with children. Based on the information obtained and observed during the investigation, there is conflicting information regarding the allegation. 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. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with facility Assistant Director Melissa Speakman 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.