complaint·April 15, 2026

CD, AD, S1, S3-S5 and S8-S9 all denied the facility is out of ratio while in the play yard and that unqualified staff are not left alone with children in care. CD further stated the facility operates with a ratio of 12 children to 1 staff or 24 children to 2 staff. AD stated unqualified staff are not alone with the children, while S3 and S4 stated they are always in a classroom with another teacher, S4 further stated, when necessary, staff communicate with one another confirming they are always in ratio. S2 stated they were left in the play yard with 24-25 kids with an aide. Furthermore, CD and AD state breakfast is from 8-9 am; lunch 11am-12pm; afternoon snack 3-3:30 pm. CD and AD stated the food cart is placed outside the classroom 15-20 minutes before the scheduled mealtime. S1, S3-S6 and S8-S9 corroborated CD and AD statements that food carts are placed outside the classrooms 15-20 minutes before scheduled mealtimes. S2 stated they observed the lunch cart outside the classroom approximately 1 hour or a little longer before lunch time. On 3/20/26, LPA observed the food carts in the hallway outside the classroom at 10:33 am. LPA also observed the hot food to be covered with aluminum foil. During record review LPA confirmed facility operations align with Health Department Guidelines and the U.S. Center for disease control and prevention, that stated, perishable food that has been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours; one hour if it's 90 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer should be thrown out. CD, AD, S1, S3, S5 and S8-S9 denied allegation that staff commingle preschool and infant day care children on the playground. S2 stated a toddler was in the preschool yard once or twice for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. Based on the information gathered during this investigation, although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that the allegation occurred and therefore is determined to be unsubstantiated. There were no Title 22 deficiencies cited. This report was reviewed and discussed with Center Director, Michelle Palacios. Appeal rights were provided. Notice of Site Visit shall be posted for 30 days from today's visit. Failure to comply with posting requirements shall result in an immediate civil penalty of $100. CD stated staff put cots out when children are eating lunch. AD and S9 stated they witnessed S1 did put cots out while kids were outside playing before coming inside for lunch and nap. Additionally, S9 stated putting cots out before children enter the classroom from playing outside is a tripping hazard to the children as they reenter the classroom from outside to each lunch. S3 and S4 stated they put cots out before children go outside to the play yard. S1 and S5 stated they put cots out while children are eating lunch or after lunch. LPA observed in one classroom at least two cots were a half inch apart and 2 groupings of about 5 cots about four inches apart which doesn't leave enough space for a child to walk through. Based on the investigation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met. Therefore, the above allegation is found to be substantiated. The following violation of the Health and Safety Code is being issued: see LIC 9099D. Exit interview was conducted, and report reviewed with Center Director Michelle Palacios. Notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Failure to comply with posting requirements shall result in an immediate civil penalty of $100. Appeal rights were provided.