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Compliance Inspector (CI) Cole Eddins and Compliance Inspector Supervisor (CIS) Romena Fox completed an unannounced inspection regarding the allegation that the nursery was caring for 41 preschool children when they are only licensed for a max capacity of 20 preschoolers. After conducting the investigation, CI Eddins and CIS Fox finds the allegation is substantiated. This conclusion is based on the following evidence of licensing statute violations which occurred at the facility:
RSMo 210.211 (8) which states: "Nursery school", a program operated by a person or an organization with the primary function of providing an educational program for preschool-age children for no more than four hours per day per child."
On September 27th, 2023, CI Eddins and CIS Fox interviewed Caregiver Ivanna Williams and Caregiver Callie Smith. Both caregivers stated that they have not observed any ratio or max capacity issues throughout the nursery. While on site, CI Eddins and CIS Fox, observed Caregiver Ivanna Williams and Caregiver Callie Smith with their children on the outside playground by the main entrance. The class was not out of ratio, and we did not observe any other caregivers or children as we toured the facility.
On October 3, 2023, CI Eddins and CIS Fox interviewed Lead Caregiver Heather Seiter who stated that she had not observed any ratio or max capacity issues. She was knowledgeable about the other children throughout the nursery, but she was unsure about the max capacity the nursery was licensed for. Lead Caregiver Heather Seiter stated that children were not allowed to attend the nursery for more than four hours at time. CI Eddins and CIS Fox interviewed caregiver Katie Denton, Caregiver Callie Smith, Caregiver Emily Sagaser, and Caregiver Emily Paolillo who all stated that they have not observed any ratio or max capacity issues. All caregivers were unsure what their max capacity should be and what their facility is licensed for. All caregivers stated that children do not attend MEGA Flip and Learn for longer than four hours at a time. While on site, CI Eddins and CIS Fox, observed all classrooms remaining in ratio. Towards the end of the walkthrough, CI Eddins and CIS Fox observed Amanda "Mandy" Miller arriving on site. While interviewing Co-Owner Mandy Miller, she stated she had expanded the nursery since she had opened but she didn't contact the state about the expansions. She stated that she will reach out to her regular CI, Katie Bruggeman, to tell her about the expansions. Co-Owner Mandy Miller stated that she was caring for two six-year-old children.
On October 3, 2023, CI Eddins and CIS Fox conducted a walkthrough of the facility and observed the remaining classrooms throughout the entire nursery. While on site, CI Eddins and CIS Fox, observed 43 children in attendance.
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