complaint·December 13, 2023

CD did not provide an explanation to clarify why unqualified staff were allowed to work alone in the classroom(s) but did convey she was addressing the issue by conducting periodic checks to ensure a FQ teacher was stationed in each classroom. Furthermore, CD said some staff were either enrolled in an ECE course(s) or registered for the facility’s in-house Child-Development-Associate (CDA) program. Statements provided by S1-S4 and A1-A4 validated they were either an unqualified staff that was left alone to work with the children or they were aware of, and during their visit(s) to the facility; they witnessed unqualified staff working alone in a preschool class. Several staff reported that on multiple occasions during the summer of 2023, CD instructed some unqualified staff to work alone with up to 16 children and they worked at the role of FQ teacher. Staff and adults alleged that CD did not provide adequate staffing to support the classroom, and a statement indicated a staff expressed concerns to CD, however; CD ignored and dismissed the concerns. During LPA’s visit to the facility on 10/04/23, LPA observed multiple unqualified staff (S1 & S5) were left alone to work with daycare children. Based on LPA’s investigation of this complaint, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Facility Representative, Brenda Hardaway. Notice of site visit was given and shall remain posted for 30 days. Failure to comply with posting requirements shall result in an immediate civil penalty of $100. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12, is being cited on the attached LIC 9099D. Appeal Rights were provided.