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Compliance Inspector (CI) Jessica Ibbotson conducted an investigation regarding the allegation that Caregiver Johnson forcefully sat Child B down onto the ground. After conducting the investigation, CI Ibbotson finds this allegation is substantiated. This conclusion is based on the following evidence of licensing rule violations which occurred at the facility:
5 CSR 25-500.182(1)(C)3. which states: "Only constructive, age-appropriate methods of discipline shall be used to help children develop self-control and assume responsibility for their own actions."
On April 17, 2023, CI Ibbotson interviewed Director Smith, Caregiver Canady and Caregiver Mackey. Caregiver Canady stated that she observed Caregiver Johnson yell at the children on multiple occasions, which led her to report her concerns to Director Smith. Caregiver Mackey stated that on March 30, 2023, she observed Caregiver Johnson yank Child B's arm, forcing him to sit down during story time. Caregiver Mackey stated that Child B did not cry at that moment, nor did she observe any marks or bruising on his arm. Caregiver Mackey stated that she still reported the incident to Director Smith that same day. Director Smith stated that she had already received staff concerns regarding Caregiver Johnson's tone of voice towards the children and decided that it was not a good fit for Caregiver Johnson to be employed at the facility any longer. Director Smith stated that Caregiver Johnson was terminated on March 30, 2023. Director Smith did not review video footage on that day and was no longer able to retrieve it due to the length of time that had passed.
CI Ibbotson interviewed Caregiver Johnson, who stated that she accidentally grabbed Child B by his arm when he refused to sit down on the rug during naptime. Caregiver Johnson stated that she knew it was a better option to stand with Child B and use positive redirection to encourage him to follow directions, but instead she had an immediate reaction to grab his arm instead. Caregiver Jonson stated that Child B did not cry and was not hurt by it, so she did not complete an accident/injury report. Caregiver Johnson stated that Director Smith approached her that same day to ask about the incident, which led to her termination on March 30, 2023.
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