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Inspection visit

Routine inspection

SECRET GARDEN PRESCHOOL, THELicense 4444166851 citation on this visit
1 citation recorded

Inspector’s narrative

What the inspector wrote

On August 19, 2025, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Darnella Barnes conducted an unannounced annual Inspection. The purpose was explained to Director Lisa Porsch who granted access and received the Entrance Checklist (LIC 125). On the day of the visit, the facility had 24 preschool children and six staff members present. Room #3 (2-year-olds) had five children. Room #2 (3-year-olds) had seven children. Room #1 (ages 3.5 to 3.75 years) had seven children. The Pre-K room (4-year-olds) had five children. The facility operates Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. All required postings were visible to the public. The most recent fire drill was conducted on 6/17/25. The Director was reminded that fire drills must occur every six months and be documented. LPA observed four fully charged 2A-10-BC fire extinguishers, last serviced on 6/4/25. One fire extinguisher was located in the main room, and one each in Rooms #1, #2, and #3. Working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and an operating telephone were present.. The Director confirmed there are no firearms on the property and acknowledged that smoking is prohibited. The Director also confirmed understanding of regulations regarding ill children. -----CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGES ----- Director was reminded that all adults 18 and over, including employees and volunteers, except as specified in Health and Safety Code section 1596.871, must obtain a criminal record clearance or exemption, or transfer their existing clearance or exemption, prior to initial presence in a Child Care Center. A civil penalty of $100.00 minimum/day for a maximum of 5 days or, if the penalty is for a repeat violation, for a maximum of 30 days per person will be assessed if this regulation is violated Inside the facility, the environment was clean, safe, and well-maintained. The flooring was in good condition and free of tripping or slipping hazards. Toy containers had smooth edges, adequate ventilation, and lids designed to prevent finger entrapment. Each child had a designated and clearly labeled space for storing personal belongings. The Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) observed Room 3, designated for 2-year-olds, noting that each child had individual bedding with labeled sheets and blankets. These items were stored separately to avoid cross-contamination. All bedding and materials were cleaned or laundered weekly to uphold hygiene standards . The facility includes a kitchen designated for food preparation. The kitchen is equipped with refrigerators, a microwave, stove, oven, and a sink with both hot and cold running water used for cleaning. The food storage area was observed to be clean, with children\342\200\231s food items stored properly to prevent spoilage. The center provides an AM snack, lunch, and PM snack for the children, all prepared in the center\342\200\231s kitchen using ingredients from an outside vendor. Director Lisa reported that the facility does not use the faucets for drinking or cooking. Approximately six purified water bottles are delivered to the facility by the company PRIMO every two weeks, with additional deliveries made as needed. As a result, the facility does not require lead testing in accordance with the Health and Safety Code (HSC) 1597.16. Children fill their own water bottles from the purified water supply, and disposable cups are also available for use. Cleaning products and chemicals were stored securely in locked cabinets, away from food and out of children\342\200\231s reach. Floors were mopped and carpets vacuumed daily using water and disinfectants, which were safely disposed of. Trash was discarded in covered containers. Indoor temperature read 75\302\260F. -----CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGES ----- The bathroom facilities meet the requirement of having at least one sink and toilet for every 15 children. Toileting areas including sinks, dispensers, walls, and floors were regularly cleaned and disinfected. The sink used for rinsing soiled items was sanitized after each use. LPA Barnes reviewed five children's files. All files were complete and included the Admission Agreement, Identification and Emergency Information (LIC 700), Consent for Emergency Medical Treatment (LIC 627), Physician's Report (LIC 701), immunization records, TB test results, Personal Rights (LIC 613A), Notification of Parent\342\200\231s Rights (LIC 995A), and Child's Pre-admission Health History. LPA reviewed facility roster, sign-in/out and completed using full legal signatures and recorded times. LPA Barnes reviewed six staff files (S1\342\200\223S6). Each file contained Mandated Reporter Training certificates, proof of TB clearance, and immunization records (pertussis, measles, influenza, or declination of influenza, Personnel Record (LIC 501)/job application, Health Screening Report (LIC 503), Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse (LIC 9108), Employee Rights (LIC 9052), and education requirements. ). Some files also included current CPR/First Aid certification All staff showed proof of TB clearance except one aide, Bella Gonyea, who was missing hers. A Type B deficiency was issued on the attached LIC 809-D Licensing Program Analyst reminded the Director that Mandated Reporter Training must be renewed every two years. And that there must be one staff that has a current CPR/First Aid certification at all times. LPA also advised Director that aides and assistants must be under direct supervision of a qualified teacher except during nap time and taking children to the bathroom. First-aid supplies were accessible to staff but out of reach of children. The kit included a first aid manual, bandages, scissors, adhesive tape, thermometer, tweezer and antiseptic solution. -----CONTINUED OF NEXT PAGE ----- Incidental Medical Services (IMS) policy was discussed. For IMS information see PIN 22-02-CCP . When any IMS is provided, an updated Plan of Operation that includes IMS must be submitted to the Department. The following information regarding ADA was provided: US Department of Justice (USDOJ) toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice) or (800) 514-0383 (TTY) and link to publication: Commonly Asked Questions about Child Care Centers and the ADA are available at: https://www.ada.gov/resources/child-care-centers/ . During the outdoor inspection, LPA observed that all walkways, ramps, and stairs were clear of tripping hazards. The play area had proper shade, was well-organized to prevent accidents, and the ground was free of debris or dangerous items. LPA observed that the climbing structure is cushioned with material that absorbs falls in and around the structure. Outdoor equipment was age-appropriate, securely anchored, in good condition, and free of sharp edges or loose parts. The outdoor area was fully enclosed by a fence at least five feet high. No dangerous equipment, chemicals, or utility fixtures were accessible. Director was informed of the MyChildCarePlan.org site, a consumer education website that helps families obtain child care by connecting them to child care providers and Resource and Referral Agencies (R&Rs) throughout California. To improve the quality and value of the new inspection process, a survey may be sent to the email address provided. Please complete the survey and share your inspection experience. If you have any questions regarding the process or CARE tools, please send email inquiries to inspectionprocess@dss.ca.gov . For additional information regarding the inspection and its tools and methods, please inspection the Program website at www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/community-care-licensing/inspection-process . During today\342\200\231s inspection one \342\200\234Type B\342\200\235 deficiency is issued on attached 809-D. Appeal rights provided. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Licensee, Lisa Porsch -----END OF REPORT ----

Citations

1 citation recorded*CCLD

What does Type A vs Type B mean?

Type A. Serious citation. Imminent or substantial risk to children. The regulator requires corrective action immediately and may impose a civil penalty.

Type B. Lower-severity citation. Corrective action required, no imminent risk. The regulator monitors compliance on the next visit.

  • 101217(a)(12)Type B

    Based on observation, interview, and record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above Aide Bella Gonyea did have her TB clearance which poses a potential health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care.

FAQ · About this visit

Common questions about this visit

What happened during the August 19, 2025 inspection of SECRET GARDEN PRESCHOOL, THE?

This was a inspection inspection of SECRET GARDEN PRESCHOOL, THE on August 19, 2025. 1 citation were issued: 1 Type B.

Were any citations issued to SECRET GARDEN PRESCHOOL, THE on August 19, 2025?

Yes, 1 citation was issued (0 Type A, 1 Type B). The first citation was for: "Based on observation, interview, and record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above Aide Bella..."

What type of inspection was this?

This was a inspection inspection. inspection inspections are conducted by CCLD as part of their licensing oversight.

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