complaint·June 30, 2023

The statements provided by S1, S3, and S5 reported witnessing a classroom operate out of ratio, and S1, S3 & S4 expressed the facility was experiencing a staffing shortage. S1 reported seeing two staff providing care for 25 children in the Pre-K classroom, while sometimes S3 was left alone with 13 or 14 children for periods of 10 to 15 minutes, and on a several occasions between April and May of 2023; S5 witnessed one staff was left alone to care for 13 or 14 children in Discovery Preschool (DP) classroom. Furthermore, on 05/17/23, LPA observed the 14 children in care with only AD in the Preschool class, as well as an Aide was left alone to walk a child to class. It is also noted that it took at least one hour for an additional staff to respond to the Preschool classroom. Based on interviews and LPA’s observations, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met and therefore, the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. The facility did not comply with California Code of Regulations Teacher-Child ratio 101216.3(a). This violation was previously cited on 01/06/23 and this is a repeat violation of the same section, resulting in a civil penalty of $250. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the facility representative, Justice Willis. A 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. The following violation of the California Code of Regulations, Title 22; Division 12; were observed. Appeal Rights were provided. See LIC 9099-D.