Incident investigation·November 1, 2023

An unannounced case management inspection visit to the facility was made today by Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Y. Yang in response to a written unusual incident report (UIR) received by the Department on 09/29/23. During today’s inspection visit, the LPA met with the interim center director, Brenda Bustamante to discuss the incident. It was reported by former center director, Mindy Meronek that on 09/26/23, staff S1 observed and video recorded staff S2 using “inappropriate child guidance” while putting child C1 to nap. Meronek reported that upon learning of this, staff S2 was placed on administrative leave while the center performed its investigation. Meronek reported that while the video did not show anything “abusive or aggressive in nature” it did violate KinderCare’s “child guidance policies.” Meronek reported that once the investigation was concluded, staff S2 resigned from their position at the center. Based on the LPA’s interviews with staff on 11/01/23, it was corroborated that S2 pushed the back of C1’s head towards their cot as C1 attempted to sit up while on their knees on their cot. Based on interviews, it was reported that C1 did not appear to be distressed or upset. Meronek reported that the authorized representative(s) of child C1 were notified, and an in-person meeting was held to discuss the incident. This self-reported incident was reported to Community Care Licensing as required. Based on available information, California Code of Regulations, Title 22 is being cited on the attached LIC 809-D. An exit interview was conducted, and this report was read and discussed with the facility’s interim center director, Brenda Bustamante. Appeal rights were provided. The Notice of Site Visit shall be posted for 30 days.