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On February 11, 2026, the Office of Childhood (OOC) received a report alleging the reporter to agency observed Barbara biting Child A (4 years old), possibly near the left arm near the child's wrist area. The incident occurred in the hallway. Compliance Inspector (CI) JD Greer conducted an investigation and found the allegation to be substantiated based on the following information:
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."
AND
5 CSR 25-500.182(1)(C)7. which states, "Physical punishment including, but not limited to, spanking, slapping, shaking, biting, or pulling hair shall be prohibited."
On February 18, 2026, Compliance Inspector (CI) JD Greer interviewed Director Darlene Stottle Myre, Teacher Dennice Anders, and Parent A (Parent of Child A). Darlene stated on January 22, 2026, Parent A came to her and said Teacher Barbara Craver had bit Child A. Barbara stated Child A had bit another child. In response, Barbara put her lips over her teeth and put Child A's arm in her mouth. Dennice stated Barbara told her she put her lips over her teeth and acted like she was biting Child A. Parent A stated on January 22, 2026, Darlene had come to get her because Child A had bit another child. As she approached Child A and Barbara, she saw Barbara grab Child A's arm and bite it. Child A was crying and screaming, "She bit me!" Barbara came to her later and stated she put Child A's arm in her mouth, but with her lips over her teeth. Barbara told Parent A that she wanted Child A to know how it felt.
On March 31, 2026, CI Greer interviewed Director of Centers Jenny Lewis, who stated on January 22, 2026, she was on her way to the facility when she received a call from Director Darlene Stottlemyre. Darlene informed her of the incident between Teacher Barbara Craver and Child A. Jenny interviewed Parent A (Parent of Child A), when she arrived at the facility. Parent A stated that she saw Barbara bite Child A's arm. Jenny interviewed Barbara. Barbara stated that she put her lips over her mouth, put child's arm in her mouth and applied pressure.
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