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Department of
SOCIAL SERVICES

Community Care Licensing


FACILITY EVALUATION REPORT

Facility Number: 198001618
Report Date: 02/28/2022
Date Signed: 02/28/2022 12:47:28 PM


Document Has Been Signed on 02/28/2022 12:47 PM - It Cannot Be Edited

STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FACILITY EVALUATION REPORT		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
CCLD Regional Office, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. 200-B
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754



FACILITY NAME:FIRST STEPS PRESCHOOLFACILITY NUMBER:
198001618
ADMINISTRATOR:KATRINE EBRAHIMIANFACILITY TYPE:
850
ADDRESS:3950 FOOTHILL BLVDTELEPHONE:
(818) 957-6364
CITY:LA CRESCENTASTATE: CAZIP CODE:
91214
CAPACITY:57CENSUS: 15DATE:
02/28/2022
TYPE OF VISIT:Required - 1 YearUNANNOUNCEDTIME BEGAN:
09:05 AM
MET WITH:Ani Ebrahimian - SupervisorTIME COMPLETED:
12:50 PM
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Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Nolan Tcheng conducted an unannounced random annual inspection. Upon arrival LPA met with Teacher Ani Ebrahimian, to whom the purpose of the inspection was explained. Lead Teacher Marya Mardirous met with LPA at 9:15am. At 9:20am, LPA was led on a tour of the facility. This is a Preschool program with a Toddler Option, which consists of 2 classrooms: one preschool and one toddler.. Per licensee, there are currently 17 enrolled in the program. Hours of operation for this facility are 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday.

Licensing staff observed all required forms/publications to be posted on the windows by the entrance. Snack menus were reviewed to ensure that they are being posted one week in advance where it is visible by the child's authorized representative. Menus for the past 30 days are available upon request.

PHYSICAL PLANT: At 9:20am, LPA entered and inspected Preschool Classroom: 0 children with 0 staff members, Toddler Classroom: 15 children with 6 staff members. The Toddler Classroom has two cohorts that are separated by a partition through the middle of the room. By the entrance of the facility, at 9:23am, a fire extinguisher was observed. The valve on the required 2A 10BC fire extinguisher indicates fully charged and was serviced on 02/11/2022 as indicated on service tag. Per State Fire Marshall standards, fire extinguishers shall be serviced annually. Disinfectants, cleaning solutions, medication and other items that are dangerous to children, were inaccessible to children. Furniture and equipment are in good condition, free of sharp, loose, or pointed parts. All floors are clean and safe. All storage containers for solid waste, including moveable bins shall have tight-fitting covers that are kept on, and in good repair. Trash cans used to discard food have tight fitting lids. The facility was observed to be free of flies, other insects and rodents. Sufficient individual storage space for children was observed and each child has a cubby. Drinking water was readily available indoors. At this time, the office is used as an isolation area. A cot is available for an ill child to rest on. First Aid supplies are available and complete. Facility has a functioning carbon monoxide detector that meets statutory requirements. Director states there are no weapons, firearms, or bodies of water on the premises. REPORT CONTINUES PAGE 1 of 4

SUPERVISOR'S NAME: Claudia GuangorenaTELEPHONE: (323) 981-3417
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Nolan TchengTELEPHONE: (323) 240-6201
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:
DATE: 02/28/2022
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:
DATE: 02/28/2022
This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years.

LIC809 (FAS) - (06/04)
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FACILITY EVALUATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
CCLD Regional Office, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. 200-B
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754
FACILITY NAME: FIRST STEPS PRESCHOOL
FACILITY NUMBER: 198001618
VISIT DATE: 02/28/2022
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At 9:25am, the diaper changing table area was reviewed. LPA observed the diaper changing table to be at least one inch thick, with raised sides of at least 3-inches, and within arms reach of the sink. All diaper changing supplies were adjacent to the changing table in individually labeled containers for children in care. There is a restroom for the children who are potty training. LPA observed two potty training seats in the restroom. All toilets, hand washing, and bathing facilities are safe, sanitary and are operating properly. At 9:30am, LPA reviewed the storage of napping equipment. Napping equipment was observed to be cots. Per Supervisor, his facility provides breakfast and lunch which is provided from another site. Families provide their children's snack. Teacher-child ratios were observed to be in accordance with Title 22 regulations. Staff names were recorded. All children were observed to be under visual supervision of a teacher during tour. The Licensee is within the conditions, limitations, and capacity specified on the license. All areas were identified on the Facility Sketch were inspected.

OUTDOORS: At 9:35am, LPA reviewed the outdoor play area. Outdoor playground equipment is in safe condition, free of sharp, loose or pointed parts. The surface of the outdoor activity space is maintained in a safe condition and is free of hazards. All areas around or under high climbing equipment, swings, slides, and similar equipment are cushioned with material that absorbs a fall. Toys and equipment outside were age appropriate. There are 4 outside play spaces that children in care use. The outdoor play spaces had a tricycle area, a small play structure area, a larger play structure area, a small sand pit, and a grass area. Drinking water is readily available outdoors.

FACILITY RECORDS: Sign in and out sheets were reviewed to ensure that the person who signs the child in and out uses their full legal signature and records the time of the day. Staff files were reviewed for a health screening report and immunizations that meet regulatory requirements. Criminal Record Clearance for adults and verification of CPR/First Aid and health preventative practices documentation was reviewed. At 10:30am, LPA reviewed file for Melania Grigorian, who was in the presence of children in care. Record Review and confirmation from Monterey Park Regional Office confirmed that Melania Grigorian does not have an active criminal background clearance. Per Melania Grigorian, she states she was hired August 2021 and left her teaching job previously in 2014. LPA discussed the importance of making sure the facility checks that new hires have criminal background clearance before they start working at the facility in the presence of children. While LPA was present at the facility, Melania Grigorian was observed to leave the facility to obtain new LiveScan fingerprints. Due to the violation of Title 22 regulations, at this time, an immediate civil penalty of $500 is being assessed. The civil penalty being assessed, including the authority for the citation and the amount assessed is attached on form LIC 421BG. REPORT CONTINUES PAGE 2 of 4

SUPERVISOR'S NAME: Claudia GuangorenaTELEPHONE: (323) 981-3417
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Nolan TchengTELEPHONE: (323) 240-6201
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 02/28/2022
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 02/28/2022
LIC809 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 2 of 6
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FACILITY EVALUATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
CCLD Regional Office, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. 200-B
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754
FACILITY NAME: FIRST STEPS PRESCHOOL
FACILITY NUMBER: 198001618
VISIT DATE: 02/28/2022
NARRATIVE
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The name of the child care center director or fully qualified teacher(s) designated to act in the director's absence is on file. Educational background, training, and/or experience for each staff present are on file and were reviewed. At 10:45am, LPA observed that 6 of 7 staff members did not have a current Mandated Reporter Child Care Provider (AB1207) Training proof of completion. LPA discussed with Teacher the importance of making sure that these are renewed every 2 years. A random sample of Children’s Records were reviewed to ensure that they are complete.

INCIDENTAL MEDICAL SERVICES:


Incidental Medical Services (IMS) policy was discussed. For IMS information see Evaluator Manual - Regulation Interpretations and Procedures for Child Care Centers Sections 101173 and 101226. When any IMS is provided, an updated Plan of Operation that includes IMS must be submitted to the Department. The following information regarding ADA was provided: US Department of Justice (USDOJ) toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice)/ (800) 514-0383 (TTY) and link to publication: Commonly Asked Questions about Child Care Centers and the ADA, available at: http://www.ada.gov/childqanda.htm

LPA observed that a COVID-19 Technical Assistance call had been made on 07/08/2020.

LPA reviewed SIDs, Never Shake A Baby, and safe sleeping practices. Infants should sleep mouth up, on their backs, free of clutter surrounding their sleeping space.

LPA advised the licensee how to access forms, regulations and quarterly updates on line at: www.ccld.ca.gov. AB1207 Mandated Child Abuse Reporting – Implementation was discussed with Licensee. Website provided: http://mandatedreporterca.com/

Upon receipt of this report, the Licensee shall post the Notice of Site visit and any licensing report documenting a type “A” deficiency. The report and the Notice of Site visit shall be posted for 30 consecutive days. Failure to maintain posting as required, will result in an immediate $100 civil penalty. A copy of this report shall be provided to the parent/guardian of children currently enrolled by the next business day or immediately upon return. A copy of this report shall also be provided to the parent/guardian of any newly enrolled children for the next 12 months (1 year). The Acknowledgement form must be maintained in each child’s file immediately upon receipt from parent. Licensee was provided with a copy of the parent Acknowledgement of Receipt of Licensing Reports Form during this visit. A copy of the Parent Notification Requirements was also provided to the licensee.


REPORT CONTINUES PAGE 3 of 4
SUPERVISOR'S NAME: Claudia GuangorenaTELEPHONE: (323) 981-3417
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Nolan TchengTELEPHONE: (323) 240-6201
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 02/28/2022
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 02/28/2022
LIC809 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 3 of 6
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FACILITY EVALUATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
CCLD Regional Office, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. 200-B
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754
FACILITY NAME: FIRST STEPS PRESCHOOL
FACILITY NUMBER: 198001618
VISIT DATE: 02/28/2022
NARRATIVE
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The deficiencies listed on the following pages were observed by the LPAs and are being cited in accordance with California Code of Regulations Title 22. Please see attached LIC 809D for deficiencies that are being cited and need to be cleared to protect the children’s health & safety.

Licensee was reminded that all adults 18 and over, including employees and volunteers, must obtain a criminal record clearance or exemption, or transfer their existing clearance or exemption, prior to initial presence in a Child Care Center. A civil penalty of $100.00 minimum/day up to $500.00 maximum per day/per person will be assessed if this regulation is violated.

The Notice of Site Visit (LIC 9213) – must remain posted for 30 days during the hours of operation after each site visit by a licensing representative. Failure to maintain posting as required will result in a civil penalty of $100.00.


Exit interview was conducted with Teacher Marya Mardirous, at 12:30pm, and Plan of Corrections were reviewed and developed.
SUPERVISOR'S NAME: Claudia GuangorenaTELEPHONE: (323) 981-3417
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Nolan TchengTELEPHONE: (323) 240-6201
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 02/28/2022
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 02/28/2022
LIC809 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 4 of 6
Document Has Been Signed on 02/28/2022 12:47 PM - It Cannot Be Edited

STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FACILITY EVALUATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
CCLD Regional Office, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. 200-B
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754


FACILITY NAME: FIRST STEPS PRESCHOOL
FACILITY NUMBER: 198001618

DEFICIENCY INFORMATION FOR THIS PAGE:
VISIT DATE: 02/28/2022

DEFICIENCIES & PLANS OF CORRECTION (POCs)
Type A
Section Cited
CCR
101170(e)(1)
Criminal Record Clearance
(e) All individuals subject to a criminal record review pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 1596.871 shall prior to working, residing or volunteering in a licensed facility: (1) Obtain a California clearance or a criminal record exemption as required by the Department or

This requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Deficient Practice Statement
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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above in allowing Melania Grigorian to begin work at the facility with children as of 8/24/2021, without first ensuring that they had an eligible Criminal Backgroung Clearance, which poses an immediate health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care.
POC Due Date: 03/01/2022
Plan of Correction
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During the time of inspection, LPA observed Melania Grigorian leave the facility to go obtain new LiveScan fingerprints. Once completed, Licensee will submit Proof of LiveScan form, LIC508, and copy of ID. Licensee understands Melania Grigorian cannot return to work until they have approved criminal background clearance
Section Cited
Deficient Practice Statement
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POC Due Date:
Plan of Correction
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Failure to correct the cited deficiency(ies), on or before the Plan of Correction (POC) due date, may result in a civil penalty assessment.
SUPERVISOR'S NAME: Claudia GuangorenaTELEPHONE: (323) 981-3417
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Nolan TchengTELEPHONE: (323) 240-6201
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:
DATE: 02/28/2022
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:
DATE: 02/28/2022
LIC809 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 5 of 6


Document Has Been Signed on 02/28/2022 12:47 PM - It Cannot Be Edited

STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FACILITY EVALUATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
CCLD Regional Office, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. 200-B
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754


FACILITY NAME: FIRST STEPS PRESCHOOL
FACILITY NUMBER: 198001618

DEFICIENCY INFORMATION FOR THIS PAGE:
VISIT DATE: 02/28/2022

DEFICIENCIES & PLANS OF CORRECTION (POCs)
Type B
Section Cited
HSC
1596.8662(b)(1)
Administration of Child Day Care Licensing
(1) On or before March 30, 2018, a person who, on January 1, 2018, is a licensed child day care provider, administrator, or employee of a licensed child day care facility shall complete the mandated reporter training provided pursuant to paragraphs (2) and (3) of subdivision (a), and shall complete renewal mandated reporter training every two years following the date on which he or she completed the initial mandated reporter training.

This requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Deficient Practice Statement
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Based on record reveiw, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above in 6 out of 7 staff files, Staff #1-5 & #7, do not have a current Mandated Reporter Child Care Provider (AB1207) Training proof of completion, which poses a potential health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care.
POC Due Date: 03/14/2022
Plan of Correction
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Per Licensee, They will have Staff #1-5 & #7 complete the Mandated Reporter Child Care Provider (AB1207) Training and will submit proof of completion to LPA by POC date
Section Cited
Deficient Practice Statement
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POC Due Date:
Plan of Correction
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Failure to correct the cited deficiency(ies), on or before the Plan of Correction (POC) due date, may result in a civil penalty assessment.
SUPERVISOR'S NAME: Claudia GuangorenaTELEPHONE: (323) 981-3417
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Nolan TchengTELEPHONE: (323) 240-6201
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:
DATE: 02/28/2022
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:
DATE: 02/28/2022
LIC809 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 6 of 6