complaint·May 23, 2024

Based on interviews, when it comes to allegation that staff did not report incident to appropriate parties it was disclosed that on April 19th 2024 a homeless person came into the preschool courtyard causing the classrooms to go into lock-down. Director was able to escort person outside the courtyard and the Pastor took over. It was also disclosed that not all parents were notified of incident and an Unusual Incident Report was not submitted to Community Care Licensing (CCL). Based on LPA observations, interviews conducted and a review of records, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met. Therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED . An exit interview was conducted, and this report was reviewed with the Director, Laura Humble, and a copy was provided. Appeal rights were discussed. A Notice of Site visit was given, and Director understands that it must remain posted for 30 days. Based on interviews, when it comes to the allegation that staff are operating the facility out of ratio it was disclosed that they always are over staffed and maintain a 1:8 ratio. It was also stated that classrooms typically have less than 12 children with 2 staff members, but there are times on the playground when classrooms are combined, it appears like a lot of children but ratios are still always met. Based on LPA's observations, LPA has observed classrooms to be overstaffed with low ratios during current and past visits. Director agreed to go over licensing ratios with staff to ensure awareness when it comes to positions and titles of staff members. Lastly, based on interviews, when it comes to allegation that unqualified staff are providing care to children it was disclosed that some staff are referred to as an aide even though they are a fully qualified teacher. It was also disclosed that there are 3 aides out of the 10 staff members and they are only alone during nap time when all children are asleep if at all. LPA reviewed staff files and confirmed staff credentials. Director agreed to go over with staff who is teacher qualified and who can and cannot be alone with children. Based on the information obtained during this investigation, it has been determined that although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that the alleged violations did or did not occur. Therefore, the allegations are UNSUBSTANTIATED . An exit interview was conducted, and this report was reviewed with the Director, Laura Humble, and a copy was provided. Appeal rights were discussed. A Notice of Site visit was given, and Director understands that it must remain posted for 30 days.