Inspection · 2024-09-13

Based on a review of documents and interviews, the center did not ensure that when staff are supervising children, they shall always ensure their care, protection, and guidance.
Evidence:
1. Staff #1 and staff #2 were supervising nine children on the morning of August 19th, 2024.
2. Staff #1 and #2 were unaware that Child #1 (age 2) walked out of the classroom sometime between 7:50am-8am. Child #1 exited the building through the front door and made their way to the sidewalk of a road that has a speed limit of 40mph.
3. Staff #1 reported that they heard a chime on the door and realized that Child #1 was not in the classroom.
4. Staff #1 reported going outside to retrieve the child and acknowledged that an unknown passerby was outside and asked if everything was ok.
5. The passerby notified a local agency that the child was outside unsupervised and reported that at approximately 8am, the passerby noticed a toddler walking on the sidewalk. The toddler was dragging a blanket and crying. The individual turned their car around, and went to engage with the child. Another passerby pointed out a local daycare in the area. The location of the child found was approximately 100-150 feet away from the local daycare. The individual took the child to the local daycare where a staff acknowledged the child was part of the facility. It was reported that the staff was unaware the child was missing.

Based on interview, the center did not ensure that children under 10 years of age were within actual sight and sound supervision of staff as required.
Evidence:
1. On August 19, 2024, two staff were supervising nine children. In the morning, one child (aged 2) walked out of the front door of the center unaccompanied, leaving the child out of sight and sound supervision.
2. In an interview, staff #1 and #2 acknowledged that they both had their backs to the child and acknowledged the child left the center.

Based on a review of documentation and interview, the licensee did not ensure operational responsibilities that the center?s activities and services are maintained in compliance with the center?s own policies and procedures that are required by the standards.
Evidence:
1. Review of the document titled ?Staff Handbook?, under 8.1 Daily Preparation, it states that staff will ?Supervise and ensure the safety and well-being of the children at all times, being alert to the needs of children as individuals and as a group.?
2. Review of the document titled ?Staff Handbook? under 8.7 Parent Communication, it states ?Conversations at pick-up and drop-off should be brief; your chief responsibility remains the supervision of the children. If you feel a parent needs more time or attention, ask to schedule a time to meet when you are not in the classroom.?
3. On August 19th, 2024, staff #2 was consoling child #1 on the carpet while playing with blocks. Staff #2 stated that other parents entered the center to drop off and had their back to the child to greet parents that were dropping off. Staff #1 stated at this time, they went to assist another child that was crying and had their back to child #1. Child #1 (2 years) exited the building through the front door and made their way to the sidewalk of a road that has a speed limit of 40mph."

Based on review of records, the center did not ensure to maintain and keep at the center a separate record for each child enrolled that contains all required information.
Evidence:
1. Child #1 record did not contain work phone number and place of employment of each parent who has custody.