complaint·July 16, 2024

Pepper stated that she does not attribute the cases to a lack of cleaning and sanitizing. Pepper stated that it is unknown to her were the cases originated from; however, once a confirmed case is identified, the center performs a deep cleaning in addition to its daily cleaning and sanitation schedule. Pepper stated that surfaces in the classrooms are cleaned and sanitized daily. Pepper stated that the facility utilizes three different types of commercial cleaners and disinfectants: a red colored bottle used for sanitizing, a green colored bottle for disinfecting, and a blue colored bottle for cleaning glass and other surfaces. Additionally, Pepper stated that floors in the classrooms are mopped daily by staff members. Pepper stated that she is not aware of any mold in any classroom or bathroom. Pepper stated that each classroom has a “Classroom Cleaning Checklist” that covers the areas of “food contact areas and mouthed objects”, “restrooms and diapering areas”, and “general classroom areas.” Pepper stated that staff must complete the checklist daily and submit the completed checklist to the front office at the end of the week. Pepper stated that several teachers have reported to her that they were either bitten by fleas or observed fleas while in their classroom. Pepper stated that she has not observed any fleas at the facility but submitted a work order request on 04/18/24 for a pest control company to come on site. Pepper stated that a work order request for carpet cleaning was previously submitted on 04/01/24. Pepper stated that there have been no reported flea sightings since then. Pepper stated that she is not aware of any insect infestation or other pest sightings inside the center. Pepper stated that the center does not keep any live animals as pets inside the building and there are no feral animals on the premises. Although centers are not required to use AC, per Title 22 regulations, “a comfortable temperature for children shall be maintained at all times. The licensee shall maintain the temperature in rooms that children occupy between a minimum of 68 degrees F (20 degrees C) and a maximum of 85 degrees F (30 degrees C). Pepper informed the LPA that the HVAC unit that provides cooling to two of the preschool classrooms was “not blowing cold air.” Pepper stated that fans were brought into the affected classrooms to regulate the room temperature. Pepper stated that children may be moved around to different classrooms if necessary. Pepper notified the LPA that a work order for an annual HVAC service was submitted on 05/01/24. During the LPA’s visits to the facility, the LPA observed that the thermostat in classrooms had a temperature reading within the 68 degrees to 85 degrees range. (Continued on LIC9099-C) During the investigation, the LPA made several unannounced site visits to make observations in the classrooms and interview staff. Staff S1-S8 were interviewed regarding the allegations. The interviews corroborated the former center director’s statements. The LPA inspected all preschool classrooms and bathrooms and did not find evidence of an insect infestation, pests, or mold. Based on available information, interviews conducted, and the LPA’s observations, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur. Therefore, the allegations are unsubstantiated at this time. All licensing reports are public information and must be made available upon request for at least three years. This report was read and reviewed with the center director, Kylie Richardson. There were no Title 22 deficiencies cited during today's inspection. Appeal rights were provided. Notice of Site Visit shall be posted for 30 days from today’s date.