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On April 19, 2024 the Office of Childhood received a report alleging "On April 18, 2024, Staff Carrie Johnson grabbed Child A (2 years old) by the upper arm so aggressively that Nora's head whipped back. Unknown marks and/or injuries." After conducting an investigation, Compliance Inspector (CI) Caylin Mertz has found this allegation to be substantiated based on the following evidence and rule violations:
5 CSR 25-300.060 (1)(B)3 which states "Physical punishment including, but not limited to, spanking, slapping, shaking, biting or pulling hair is prohibited."
On April 19, 2024 CI Caylin Mertz conducted an unannounced inspection at the facility. A walkthrough was conducted. Caregiver Kayla Hafer, Director Sherri Potts, Caregiver Cathy Land, Caregiver Lilly Curtis, Caregiver Heather Long, Child B and Child C were interviewed. Caregiver Kayla indicated she observed Child A as well as several other children run towards the lunch cart when Caregiver Karrie grabbed Child A's bicep and jerked her back forcefully causing Child A's head to jolt back. Director Sherri indicated she asked Caregiver Karrie to come to her office and upon addressing the situation Caregiver Karrie quit. Caregiver Cathy, Caregiver Lilly, and Caregiver Heather did not observe the incident or have information to add. Child B and Child C provided no relevant information.
On April 19, 2024, CI Caylin Mertz observed the facility Notice of Parental Responsibility, which references the parent handbook for the discipline policy. CI Mertz observed the discipline policy, which states the facility utilizes conscious discipline and physical punishment would in no way be used as a discipline tool.
On June 11, 2024, CI Caylin Mertz interviewed Former Caregiver Karrie Johnson and Parent A. Former Caregiver Karrie provided no relevant information. Parent A stated Child A indicated Former Caregiver Karrie grabbed her arm and it hurt.
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