Complaint·June 21, 2023

In addition, during the course of investigation, staff admitted to having to raise their voices and move children in a fast motion due to needing to supervise all the children in their care while also having to deal with children with behavioral problems. This led to staff being inadvertently rough with the children, and even though it was unintentional, staff stated that they reacted that way due to stress and did not realize they were being rough or speaking inappropriately. In regard to the allegation that staff did not provide adequate supervision resulting in children eloping, LPA was able to corroborate allegation via interviews conducted. LPA confirmed that sometime in April, 2 children eloped from a classroom while the mother arrived to pick up her child. According to information gathered, Child #1 ran out of the classroom once he observed his mother arrive for pick up, but another child ran out with C1 and both children left to the playground unattended. During this time, the mother was speaking with a staff member, another staff member noticed them leave so she went after them and brought them back. Based on the information obtained during this investigation, it has been determined that although the allegations may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that the alleged violations did or did not occur. Therefore, the allegations are SUBSTANTIATED . An exit interview was conducted, and this report was reviewed with the Director, Aunica Defalco, and a copy was provided. Appeal rights were discussed and provided during the exit interview. A Notice of Site visit was given, and Director understands that it must remain posted for 30 days.