Reporting party (RP) stated that Child 1 (C1) had access to a can opener multiple times during an incident. RP also shared that C1 has left the facility’s premises on multiple occasions. RP is unsure if the unusual incidents that occurred at the facility have been reported to the Department.

During investigation, LPA conducted interviews with five (5) staff, three (3) children, five (5) parents, and obtained pertinent documents.

Regarding allegation (1) Facility did not ensure that sharp objects were not accessible to children in care.

During record review, the Parent Communication Form written by the director on May 7, 2026, documented that C1 removed various items and emptied them onto the floor. C1 also threw multiple items at the one-on-one aide. Staff and the one-on-one aide attempted to redirect and deescalate C1 throughout the incident. The incident report further states that a phone call home was made. C1 was suspended from the program following the incident, pending a meeting with C1’s parent.

During staff interviews, three (3) of five (5) staff reported that sharp kitchen utensils are stored in a locked cabinet. However, Staff 3 (S3) stated that sharp utensils are kept in fabric cubby bins that are not secured or inaccessible to children. Staff 1 (S1) also reported that the kitchen contains a metal table with a sliding door where kitchen utensils (such as plates and bowls) are stored.

Staff 1, 3, and 5 stated that they were present during the incident and reported the following: C1 got upset while playing a game of chess and their behavior escalated, causing C1 to knock over various objects throughout the classroom. The rest of the staff and children in the classroom directed to go outside.

S1 added that C1 retrieved a can opener that was placed inside the metal table with a sliding door, which was unlocked. Staff attempted to redirect and deescalate C1. S1 was able to remove the can opener from C1 and secure it in the locked kitchen cabinet.

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Staff 5 (S5) added that they were with the group of children and staff that were directed to go outside. While inside the classroom, they do not recall seeing C1 obtain a can opener.

During observations, LPA observed that the metal kitchen table was accessible and contained non-sharp kitchen items and utensils. Sharp kitchen utensils, including but not limited to scissors and a can opener, were stored in a basket inside a locked cabinet.

LPA conducted parent interviews. The interviewed parents did not divulge any information pertaining to the allegation or express any concerns regarding care of the children. LPA also conducted children’s interviews. The children interviewed did not divulge any information pertaining to the allegation. LPA attempted to interview C1 but was unable to speak with them.

Regarding allegation (2) Facility did not follow reporting requirements.

During record review, LPA reviewed C1’s parent communication forms which document multiple elopement incidents. On December 2, 2025, at approximately 4:45 p.m., C1 showed behaviors or eloping and attempted to leave after being pushed. The parent communication form was signed by the director and C1’s authorized representative on December 2, 2025.

On April 6, 2026, at approximately 1:50 p.m., C1 knocked over and dumped out various objects in the classroom before running out of the classroom, climbing over the fence, and exiting the school boundary. The parent communication form was signed by the director and C1’s authorized representative on April 6, 2026.

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During staff interviews, the director stated that the incidents were only reported to their supervisor and the child’s parents. The director added that the incidents were not reported to the licensing department or any other agencies because staff were able to follow C1 throughout each incident.

LPA conducted parent interviews. The interviewed parents did not divulge any information pertaining to the allegation or express any concerns regarding care of the children. LPA also conducted children’s interviews. The children interviewed did not divulge any information pertaining to the allegation. LPA attempted to interview C1 but was unable to contact them.

Based on LPA’s observations, interviews and record review, the preponderance of evidence has been met; therefore, the allegations of (1) Facility did not ensure that sharp objects were not accessible to children in care and (2) Facility did not follow reporting requirements was found to be Substantiated. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 12, Sections 101238 and 101212 are being cited. See LIC9099D for deficiency cited.

Exit interview was conducted. Notice of Site Visit was posted during the visit. Director was informed that the notice of site visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. Failure to post will result in civil penalties of $100.

Appeal Rights were explained. The Director was provided with a copy of the appeal rights (LIC 9058) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. All appeals must be in writing and received by the Regional Office within 15 business days. First level appeals should be sent to the regional manager to the address listed above.

End of report.