| Conclusion Summary |
|
On September 11, 2024, Compliance Inspection Supervisor (CIS) Marla Chrisco and Compliance Inspector (CI) Christy Hughes conducted an investigation that alleged that the facility is understaffed and they have witnessed children having to sit with the director behind her desk during morning drop off. Reporter also witnessed a classroom with nineteen 3 and 4-year-olds with only one teacher present. The allegation is substantiated based on the following information:
5 CSR 25-500.112(1) , which states: "Staff/child ratios shall be maintained at all times."
AND
5 CSR 25-500.112(1)(A)., which states: "The staff/child ratio and group size shall be followed as outlined in the below chart unless it meets an exception in subparagraphs (1)(B)-(G) below: Infants, toddlers, and 2-year-olds shall have one caregiver for every four children with no more than eight children per group; Groups composed solely of children 24 to 36 months shall have one caregiver for every eight children with no more than 16 children per group; Groups composed solely of children 3 to 4 years shall have one caregiver for every 10 children with no more than 20 children per group; Groups composed solely of children 5 years or older shall have one caregiver for every 16 children with no more than 32 children per group; A mixed group of children consisting of no more than four children age 2 years, and at least one child older than 3 years shall have one caregiver for every 10 children with no more than 20 children per group; A mixed group of children consisting of more than four children ages 24 to 36 months, and at least one child older than 36 months shall have one caregiver for every eight children with no more than 16 children per group."
AND
5 CSR 25-500.082(1)(C)., which states: "Children shall have no access to areas not approved for child care."
On September 11,2024, Compliance Inspection Supervisor (CIS) Marla Chrisco and Compliance Inspector (CI) Christy Hughes conducted interviews with Director Rebecca Schade, Assistant Director Gracie Boeckman, cook Jennifer Bell and caregiver Fernando Hallstead. Rebecca stated that it has been tough with staff. They are doing everything they can to maintain ratios and that they do have children with them in the morning at the front desk so that they can maintain ratios and still let families into the building. Jennifer stated that they have been out of ratio early in the day in some classrooms and that they do keep children at the front desk with someone to help with ratios. She stated that sometimes the children are infants and toddlers at the front desk. Gracie stated that the center has been out of ratio and has been short staffed due to illness and vacations and they're working extra hours to help maintain. Fernando stated that they are out of ratio for short periods of times in multiple classrooms. She calls for help and they come a quickly as they can.
|