The Issue The issue in this case is whether Respondent's license to operate a child care facility should be revoked for alleged violations of Chapter 402, Florida Statutes (2002 through 2005),1 and Florida Administrative Code Chapter 65C-22 as set forth in the Administrative Complaint.
Findings Of Fact The Department is the state agency responsible for licensing and disciplining child care facilities. In carrying out its responsibilities, the Department conducts routine inspections of child care facilities, as well as inspections based on any complaints concerning a child care facility. Youth in Action is a child care facility located in Panama City, Florida. On February 5, 2003, Dia Green, who at that time was employed by the Department, conducted an inspection of Youth in Action based on a complaint. Ms. Green observed children in the two, three, and four-year-old age groups going to the restroom without direct supervision. A child at Youth in Action scratched his nose while going down the slide. Staff at Youth in Action did not document the incident on the day that it occurred. The facility did not have a staff person trained in first aid present during all operating hours. On March 10, 2003, Ms. Green made a routine inspection of Youth in Action. She found that Youth in Action had no documentation to show that monthly fire drills had been completed. On January 6, 2004, Ms. Green conducted a routine inspection of Youth in Action. Again, she found that Youth in Action lacked documentation to show that monthly fire drills had been completed. There were broken furniture and toys that needed to be removed from the facility. The immunization records for some of the children being cared for at the facility were incomplete. By letter dated January 22, 2004, the Department advised the owner/operator of Youth in Action, Sherlene McClary, that Youth in Action's license was being changed to provisional for failure to have a director meeting the credentialing requirements of Subsection 402.305(2)(f), Florida Statutes (2003). The provisional license was effective January 2, 2004, through June 1, 2004. On April 28, 2004, Lee Anne Case, a child licensing counselor employed by the Department, inspected Youth in Action. She found the staff-to-child ratio was not sufficient for different age groups. There was one staff person for seven children in the 0 to 12-month-old group. There was one staff person for seven children in the one-year-old group. There was one staff person for nine children in another one-year-old group. There was one staff person for 16 children in the two- year-old group. Ms. Case observed that, when the children were coming in from the playground, Youth in Action staff were leaving a child on the playground. The cook for the facility noticed the child and brought it to the attention of staff. Ms. Case found that areas in the facility were not in good repair. The carpet was dirty, had holes, and was fraying on the edges, creating tripping hazards. The thermostat was hanging by wires from the wall, and, when the thermostat was touched, the lights would flicker. There was a five-inch hole in the wall leading directly to the outside. The floor mats on which the children napped were torn. The bathrooms lacked supplies such as paper towels, soap, and toilet paper. During the April 28, 2004, inspection, Ms. Case found that diaper changing in the infant room was being done on a surface that was not impermeable. The container for soiled diapers was not covered and was accessible to children. Ms. Case also observed indoor and outdoor equipment which was not safe. Inside the facility, a changing table was broken, the power cord to a portable radio was accessible to children, and the air conditioning unit was not properly mounted, leaving sharp corners exposed. On the playground, there were exposed roots, which created a tripping hazard; broken toys were left in the area; and a picnic table was pushed up to the fence negating the required four-foot height requirement for the fence. Additionally, during the April 28, 2004, inspection, Ms. Case found that there was a lack of documentation to show that some of the staff members had completed the required 40-Hour Introductory Child Care Training. Personnel records for some of the staff were missing. The Department gave Youth in Action until May 5, 2004, to correct the deficiencies in the torn and dirty carpet, the thermostat, the hole in the wall, the debris and broken toys on the playground, the picnic table pushed against the fence, the air conditioning unit, the power cord to the radio, the personnel records, and the training requirements. On May 7, 2004, Youth in Action was re-inspected to determine if the deficiencies had been corrected. The carpet had not been repaired or cleaned. The hole in the wall had been filled loosely with paper towels. The playground still contained debris and leaves were piled next to the fence, eliminating the four-foot fence requirement. Sleeping mats were torn. The diaper changing in the infant room was being done on an impermeable surface. The deficiencies related to the changing table and the air conditioning unit had not been corrected. The deficiencies in the training documentation and the personnel records also remained uncorrected. Youth in Action was given until May 10, 2004, to make the necessary corrections. It was also noted during the May 7, 2004, inspection that the facility had a staff-to-children ratio deficiency. One staff person was observed with seven infants. One staff person was with seven children in the room for one-year-old children. In a second room with one and two-year-old children, there was one staff person for seven children. In one group of three and four-year-old children there were 17 children and one staff person. On May 13, 2004, another inspection was made of Youth in Action to determine if the deficiencies found on May 5, 2004, had been corrected. On May 13, 2004, sleeping mats in the one- year-old room were torn and needed to be replaced; the diaper changing pad was still torn; and the sharp corners of the air conditioner had not been eliminated. On August 11, 2004, Jason Kesterman, an employee of the Department, inspected Youth in Action. He found that the facility's plan of scheduled events was not posted in a place accessible to parents. Paper towels or air dryers were not available and within reach of the children in the bathroom next to the one-year-olds' room. Some of the staff of the facility had not completed the 40-hour mandatory training course within the allotted time frame, and some lacked the ten-hour training course. One of the staff did not have documentation of the initiation of training within the allotted time. The first aid kit for the facility lacked moist wipes and rubber gloves. On November 12, 2004, Ms. Case inspected Youth in Action. Numerous deficiencies were noted. There was an insufficient ratio of staff to children. There was one staff person for 16 children when there should have been two staff members. During nap time, there was insufficient staff accessible for the one-year-olds. Ms. Case observed a heavy- duty bathroom cleaner that was accessible to children. The floor mats for napping were torn. Staff did not clean and disinfect the diaper changing surface after each use. The pad on the diaper changing table was torn. The ground cover within the fall zone of the swings was not maintained. A rocking fish toy had sharp and jagged handles. One of the staff did not have documentation of one of the required ten-hour training courses. The director of the facility was not onsite a majority of the hours of operation. The first aid kit for the facility did not contain a thermometer, moistened wipes, and a guide on first aid. The facility did not have a staff member trained in current infant and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation present during all hours of operation. Diaper ointment was dispensed without written authorization from the parent. Some of the children did not have documentation of a student health examination. Personnel records for some of the staff were incomplete. On December 2, 2004, the Department issued an Administrative Complaint assessing a $500 fine against Youth in Action for failure to supervise a 19-month-old child who walked away from the facility. Youth in Action paid the $500 fine. On January 27, 2005, the Department notified Youth in Action that its license was being placed on provisional status effective December 1, 2004, for repeated violations of Florida Administrative Code Chapter 65C-22. The provisional license was to remain in effect until June 1, 2005. The Department advised the facility that inspections in addition to the routine inspections would be made of the facility to monitor the facility's compliance with Florida Statutes and the Florida Administrative Code. The facility was notified that "failure to immediately correct documented violations during your facility's inspections will leave the [D]epartment no alternative but to seek revocation of your license." Sherrie Gainer, an employee of the Department, inspected Youth in Action on January 19, 2005. She found cleaning supplies that were accessible to children as well as knives in a lower kitchen cabinet that was accessible to children. This deficiency was corrected at the time of the inspection. Ms. Gainer found that the director's file was not located at the facility. Some of the children's files were incomplete. Some of the personnel files for staff were incomplete. Youth in Action was given until January 31, 2005, to correct the deficiencies. On March 2, 2005, Ms. Gainer inspected Youth in Action. She found that there was a deficiency in the staff-to- child ratio. One group of children had seven three and four- year-old children and one one-year-old child. Such a mix required the supervision of two staff and only one staff was supervising. Ms. Gainer inspected Youth in Action on March 22, 2005. She found that the facility did not have complete records for some of the child care personnel. In response to a complaint, Ms. Gainer inspected Youth in Action on May 4, 2005. She found a staff-to-child ratio deficiency. There should have been two staff persons for eight children, but there was only one staff person supervising the children. She observed that there was an uncovered vent in the ceiling of the bathroom that allowed rain to enter the facility and that the toilet seats were loose. Ms. Gainer inspected Youth in Action on October 11, 2005. She found that the facility did not have documentation to show completion of a five-hour literacy training course by June 30, 2005, for staff hired on or before December 31, 2004. Additionally, records or copies of records were not being maintained at the facility for review by the Department. Files were being maintained across the street from the facility. On November 14, 2005, Ms. Gainer again inspected Youth in Action. A bathroom light did not work. Cleaning supplies in the kitchen were accessible to the children. Bedding did not fit against the crib, leaving a big gap. The bedding was dirty and brown in color. Several sheets found on the infant beds were badly stained. On November 29, 2005, Ms. Gainer re-inspected Youth in Action. Cleaning supplies in the kitchen were accessible to the children. A radio cord was hanging within reach of the children in the toddlers' room. Ms. Gainer inspected Youth in Action on December 20, 2005. There was a deficiency in the staff-to-children ratio. Two staff were needed for five children in the infant group, and only one staff person was supervising the five children. Ms. Gainer observed that the white lattice by the walkway was coming undone. On February 23, 2006, Ms. Gainer inspected Youth in Action and noted a staff-to-children ratio deficiency. There was one staff person supervising seven children, consisting of four one-year-olds and three two-year-olds. Two persons were required to supervise that particular age group. Based on a complaint, Ms Gainer made an inspection of Youth in Action on March 1, 2006, and she observed another staff-to-children ratio violation. One staff person was present with 18 children, three of whom were one-year-old and 15 of whom were two and three-year-old. Based on another complaint, Ms. Gainer made an inspection of Youth in Action on March 13, 2006. She found there were 13 children in one room watching television with one staff person. There were seven one-year-old children in with a group of two, three, and four-year-old children. On April 12, 2006, Ms. Gainer was advised by an employee of Youth in Action that the director of the facility was employed full time by the local school district and was not at the facility a majority of the operating hours. On April 13, 2006, Ms. Gainer inspected Youth in Action and found that the emergency plan was not posted. She observed a volunteer left alone supervising three one-year-old children in a classroom.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that a final order be entered finding that Youth in Action violated Section 402.305, Florida Statutes, and Florida Administrative Code Rules 65C-20.001, 65C-20.002, 65C-20.003, 65C-20.004, and 65C-20.006, and revoking it license to operate a child care facility. DONE AND ENTERED this 29th day of January, 2007, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S SUSAN B. HARRELL Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 SUNCOM 278-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 29th day of January, 2007.
The Issue The issue for determination in this case is whether Respondent's license to operate a child day care facility should be revoked for violations of Chapter 402, Florida Statutes, and Rule Chapter 10M-12, Florida Administrative Code.
Findings Of Fact Petitioner, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES, HRS, is the agency of the State of Florida vested with the statutory authority to license and inspect child day care facilities. Respondent ELMER ROGER PILLSBURY holds a provisional license issued by HRS to operate WHITFIELD ACADEMY, a child day care facility located in Manatee County, Florida. Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY is the manager of WHITFIELD ACADEMY, and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the facility. In addition to managing WHITFIELD ACADEMY, Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY also operates Kinder Kare Day Care, another licensed child day care center in Manatee County, Florida. At all material times, Respondents ELMER ROGER PILLSBURY and KAREN PILLSBURY have been married. WHITFIELD ACADEMY was first licensed by HRS on June 27, 1989. At that time KAREN PILLSBURY was the owner of the facility. On June 1, 1990, ownership of the facility was transferred from KAREN PILLSBURY to ROGER ELMER PILLSBURY. After the transfer of ownership, KAREN PILLSBURY continued as the operator of the facility, and was in control of the management of the facility. WHITFIELD ACADEMY has an authorized licensed capacity of one hundred and thirty five children. During the period relevant to this proceeding the facility has had a daily census ranging from thirty to ninety children, with an average between fifty and sixty children per day. Staffing at the facility has ranged from four to nine employees. Pursuant to statutory authority, HRS routinely conducts quarterly inspections of licensed child day care facilities. HRS also routinely investigates complaints filed against licensed child day care facilities. Beginning in 1989 and continuing through 1995, HRS has cited Respondents for numerous statutory and rule violations including the following charges set forth in the Administrative Complaint: child abuse; failure to comply with staff/child ratios; failure to maintain direct supervision; improper storage of dangerous chemicals; roach infestation; fire code violations; failure to repair shattered glass in a window; corporal punishment; unsanitary bathrooms; failure to designate staff left in charge; nonconstructive discipline; and failure to cooperate with health officials in responding to an outbreak of Hepatitis A. Child Abuse On or about April 25, 1989, Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY, while working at Kinder Kastle Day Care, disciplined an eighteen-month old child for biting other children by "popping" the child on his mouth with her finger. Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY considered this form of discipline appropriate to prevent small children from biting other children. It is accepted practice by some child development professionals that nonexcessive physical contact may be used as a deterrence to prevent children from biting others. HRS has promulgated Rule 10M-12.013(1)(c), Florida Administrative Code, which prohibits any form of physical punishment in a child care facility. As a result of this incident, a complaint was filed with HRS against KAREN PILLSBURY. HRS investigated the complaint and on May 30, 1989, filed an Administrative Complaint against KAREN PILLSBURY d/b/a/ Kinder Kastle Day Care for violations of HRS's child care standards which, as set forth above, prohibit any corporal discipline on a child in a child care facility. As a result of this administrative action, KAREN PILLSBURY was assessed a fine of $100, which was paid on January 16, 1990. In addition to the administrative fine imposed on Kinder Kastle, on September 29, 1989, as a result of this incident, HRS also proposed to confirm a report of child abuse against Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY for using excessive corporal punishment. Respondent did not seek administrative review of HRS's decision to classify the report as confirmed child abuse. Instead, Respondent applied for an exemption to continue working in a child day care facility. Respondent's application for exemption was denied by HRS on November 20, 1989, and Respondent then sought administrative review of HRS's decision to deny her request for exemption filed with DOAH as Case No. 90-007C. During the pendency of the administrative review denying Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY's application for exemption, Respondent continued to have contact with children at her child care facilities. HRS thereafter filed an Emergency Complaint seeking injunctive relief against Respondent in circuit court, (Case No. CA90-912, Fla. 12th Cir.), and on March 26, 1990 an injunction was issued by the court prohibiting Respondent from being present at Kinder Kastle or Whitfield Academy. Prior to hearing scheduled in the administrative case, HRS and Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY, on May 22, 1990, entered into a stipulated settlement, under the terms of which HRS agreed to grant Respondent an exemption to work at child day care facilities, and Respondent agreed to dismiss the administrative action, receive counseling with regard to alternative ways to modify a child's behavior without the use of corporal punishment, and obtain instruction in social behavior modification. Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY has complied with the terms of the stipulated settlement in DOAH Case No. 90-007C. On June 4, 1990, the circuit court injunction against Respondent was set aside, and Respondent resumed her duties at Kinder Kastle and Whitfield Academy. Staff/Child Ratio Violations HRS has promulgated Rule 10M-12.002(5)(a)1., Florida Administrative Code, which establishes ratios for personnel to children in child day care facilities. The ratios are dependent upon the ages of the children at the facility. During inspections of child day care facilities HRS staff observe the number of children being supervised by facility personnel and record the ratios. HRS staff does not personally check the ages of the individual children in a supervised group, but relies on personal observation as well as the representations made by the facility personnel to determine the ages of the children and whether the ratios are appropriate. Since 1989, WHITFIELD ACADEMY has been cited by HRS for staff/child ratio deficiencies on at least twelve occasions. On September 14, 1989, during a routine quarterly inspection at WHITFIELD ACADEMY, an HRS inspector observed there was one staff member for fourteen children between the ages of one year and two and one half years. The HRS staff/child ratio at that time required one staff member for eight children aged one to two years old and one staff member for twelve children aged two to three years old. The inspection report cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for this deficiency. At the reinspection of the facility on October 2, 1989, the ratio for this group of children remained at one staff member to fourteen children, and had not been corrected. At reinspection on October 16, 1989, the deficiency was corrected. On April 11, 1990, during the investigation of a complaint filed against WHITFIELD ACADEMY, HRS cited the facility for a staff/child ratio deficiency because two staff members were supervising a group of thirty-eight children who appeared to be of varying ages ranging from three to five years old. The inspection report cautioned WHITFIELD ACADEMY with respect to mixing children of different ages in supervised groups. Upon reinspection by HRS staff on April 25, 1990, this deficiency was corrected. As a result of a complaint filed against WHITFIELD ACADEMY, an inspection was also conducted on April 25, 1990, regarding the staff/child ratio for younger children. At that time HRS staff observed twelve children who appeared to be from under one year old to two years old in the care of one staff member. The staff/child ratio required for children under one year old was one staff member to six children, and for children of one year of age was one staff member for eight children. WHITFIELD ACADEMY was cited for this deficiency. Upon reinspection by HRS staff on May 2, 1990, this deficiency was corrected. On July 11, 1990, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for a staff/child ratio deficiency for having one staff member supervising fourteen children, some of whom appeared to be under one year old. Upon reinspection on July 25, 1990, this deficiency was corrected. The staff/child ratio deficiencies at WHITFIELD ACADEMY did not reoccur until March 31, 1992. At that time an HRS inspector cited the facility as deficient when the inspector observed one staff member supervising seven children under the age of one year old in the nursery for a short period of time, approximately twenty to thirty minutes. The required staff/child ratio at that time was one staff member to six infants. Upon reinspection on April 14, 1992, this deficiency was corrected. On August 4, 1992, HRS again cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for a staff/child ratio deficiency for having one staff member supervise seven infants for a short period of time when another staff member was on leave. Upon reinspection on September 10, 1992, this deficiency was corrected. On January 14, 1993, a complaint was filed with HRS against Respondents WHITFIELD ACADEMY and KAREN PILLSBURY for a staff/child ratio deficiency of one staff member for eight infants under one year old. The deficiency lasted for approximately one hour. In addition, the complaint alleged that on one occasion a staff member left children in the toddler area alone to obtain records for a health nurse, and that two children were sleeping out of the sight of a staff member. As a result of this complaint, on March 10, 1993, administrative action was taken against Respondents, and a fine in the amount of $250 was assessed. Respondents paid the fine on April 8, 1993. On April 21, 1993, Respondents submitted a corrective action plan to HRS to address the problems identified in this complaint. On August 18, 1993, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for a staff/child ratio deficiency for having one staff member supervise five infants under one year old. At this time the required ratio had changed from one staff member to six infants, to one staff member to four infants. Upon reinspection on September 1, 1993, this deficiency was corrected. On February 9, 1994, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for a staff/child ratio deficiency when an inspector observed two toddlers among a group of older children in the playground. This deficiency was immediately corrected. On March 29, 1994, and on April 20, 1994, HRS received complaints that on two separate occasions the staff/child ratios at WHITFIELD ACADEMY were improper because of the mixing of children of different ages. The allegations of the complaints were verified by HRS, and an administrative fine was assessed against WHITFIELD ACADEMY in the amount of $300 on May 12, 1994. The fine was paid on August 18, 1994. On February 23, 1995, HRS initially cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for a staff/child ratio deficiency; however, on the same date, when the age of the child in question was verified by reviewing the facility's records, this citation was found to be without basis. On March 23, 1995, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for a staff/child deficiency for having one staff member for seventeen children ages two and three when the required ratio was one staff member for eleven two year olds and one staff member for fifteen three year olds. Upon reinspection on April 11, 1995, this deficiency was not corrected. Upon another reinspection on April 21, 1995, this deficiency was corrected. WHITFIELD ACADEMY has experienced difficulty in retaining qualified staff. Some instances of noncompliance with staff/child ratios resulted from staff at the facility being ill, taking breaks, and the failure of staff to report for work. Except for the citations issued on September 14, 1989, and March 23, 1995, all instances of staff/child ratio deficiencies at WHITFIELD ACADEMY were corrected in a timely manner. Failure to Provide Direct Supervision On six occasions WHITFIELD ACADEMY has been cited by HRS for failure to comply with departmental rules governing direct supervision of children at a child day acre facility. HRS has promulgated Rule 10M-12.005(5)(a)2., Florida Administrative Code, which requires personnel at a child day care facility to watch and direct the children's activities with close proximity, within the same room or enclosed outdoor play area, and to be present with the children at all times during the day, including during meals, nap time, and snack time. On September 14, 1989, during a routine quarterly inspection, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to provide direct supervision because a staff member at the facility was going in and out of her classroom to assist another staff member at snack time. Upon reinspection on October 2, 1989, the HRS inspector observed children left alone at the facility, and determined that this deficiency had not been corrected. Upon a further reinspection on October 6, 1989, the deficiency was corrected. On April 11, 1990, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to provide direct supervision because children were being allowed to leave the playground to go inside to use the bathroom unattended by a staff member. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on April 25, 1990. On August 4, 1992, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to provide direct supervision because volunteers at the facility were being allowed to supervise children out of the presence of a trained staff member. At reinspection on September 10, 1992, this deficiency was corrected. As set forth in Paragraph 23, above, the complaint filed on January 23, 1993, against Respondents WHITFIELD ACADEMY and KAREN PILLSBURY alleged, in addition to a staff/child ratio deficiency, a failure by Respondents to provide direct supervision, in that on one occasion a child was left unattended when a staff member retrieved records for a health nurse, and further alleged that during nap time, some children could not be directly observed by facility staff. This complaint was verified by HRS and resulted in an administrative fine of $250, which Respondents paid on April 21, 1993. Respondents also submitted a corrective action plan which addressed these problems. On August 3, 1994, HRS received a complaint that children at WHITFIELD ACADEMY were not being supervised because one staff member was observed sleeping, and another staff member would, on occasion, leave the room. On August 11, 1994, HRS sent WHITFIELD ACADEMY a warning letter concerning the complaint, and by August 29, 1994, Respondents took corrective action, including dismissal of the staff member found sleeping. On December 19, 1994, HRS received a complaint against WHITFIELD ACADEMY alleging that a five month old child, while strapped in an infant chair, was pushed off a table by a one year old child and received a concussion. The complaint alleged that the two staff members present at the time of the incident were not watching the children. This incident occurred because a child had spilled milk, and one staff member was momentarily involved in cleaning up the spilled milk. The infant was not seriously injured. Improper Storage of Dangerous Chemicals Beginning in 1989, HRS has cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for improper storage of dangerous chemicals on thirteen occasions. In this respect, HRS has promulgated Rule 10M-12.003(1)(d), Florida Administrative Code, which requires that cleaning supplies, flammables, and other potentially poisonous or dangerous supplies be kept out of the reach of children, and in such a manner as to insure the safety of children. The thirteen citations issued by HRS against WHITFIELD ACADEMY for this deficiency largely result from a failure to lock a supply storage room door at the facility. The supply storage room at the facility is located next to the boys' bathroom and contains cleaning supplies, as well as cans of paint. The supplies and paint are stored on shelves beyond the reach of children. On September 14, 1989, during a routine quarterly inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY, HRS staff observed the door to the supply storage room unlocked. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on October 2, 1989. On November 13, 1989 during a routine quarterly inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY, HRS staff observed a can of Lysol spray disinfectant on the toilet tank in the toddler bathroom. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on November 30, 1989. On February 20, 1990, during a routine quarterly inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY, HRS staff observed the door to the supply storage room unlocked. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on March 6, 1990. During the inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY conducted on April 11, 1990, as set forth in Paragraph 18, above, the supply storage door was not locked. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on April 25, 1990. At a routine quarterly inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY on July 11, 1990, items used for crafts, such as paint and hair spray, were observed in an unlocked cabinet in the playroom. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on July 25, 1990. During a routine quarterly inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY on October 16, 1990, the door to the supply storage room was unlocked. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on October 30, 1990. During a routine quarterly inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY on January 9, 1991, the door to the supply storage room was unlocked. This deficiency was not corrected at reinspection on January 24, 1991, but was corrected at reinspection on February 7, 1991. On May 31, 1991, during a food service inspection at WHITFIELD ACADEMY, cleaning chemicals were observed stored over a food preparation counter. At reinspection on June 17, 1991, this deficiency was corrected. Except for the January 9, 1991 citation, all storage deficiencies relating to storage of cleaning supplies and other such materials were corrected in a timely manner. Children at WHITFIELD ACADEMY did not have access to cleaning supplies, flammables, or other potentially poisonous or dangerous chemicals. Pest Control Deficiencies On three occasions since 1989, WHITFIELD ACADEMY has been cited for failure to maintain appropriate sanitation due to problems with pest control. On each occasion evidence of roaches was found at the facility. On January 24, 1991, HRS conducted an inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY in response to two complaints filed with the department which alleged that evidence of roaches had been observed at the facility, and that the facility did not conduct appropriate fire drills.. During the inspection, live roaches were observed in the kitchen, behind the soda machine, and in cabinets above and beside the sink. This deficiency was classified as a major infestation. At reinspection on February 8, 1991, the deficiency had been corrected. During a routine food inspection at WHITFIELD ACADEMY on May 31, 1991, live roaches were observed in three different areas. This deficiency was classified as a significant infestation. A routine quarterly inspection conducted on June 6, 1991 also showed evidence of live roaches in the nursery and playroom. At reinspection by the food inspector on June 17, 1991, the deficiency had been corrected, and reinspection again by HRS on July 5, 1991, confirmed that the problem was corrected. All deficiencies cited by HRS against WHITFIELD ACADEMY relating to maintaining proper pest control were corrected in a timely manner. Failure to Designate Staff In Charge On two occasions since 1989, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to designate a staff member left in charge of the facility contrary to Rule 10M- 12.002(2)(a), Florida Administrative Code, which requires that when the operator of a facility is absent, a person over 21 years of age must be in charge of, and present at the facility at all times. On October 14, 1992, an HRS food service inspector during a routine inspection of WHITFIELD ACADEMY was unable to locate a specific staff member at the facility willing to accept the food service inspection report. At the time of the inspection KAREN PILLSBURY was absent from the facility. The report was eventually accepted and signed for by Connie Jimenez, an employee of the facility at that time, who was more than 21 years of age. On May 10, 1994, during a routine quarterly inspection, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to designate a person in charge. The HRS inspector did not observe or review a posted list of employees of the facility to determine if any employee had been designated in charge at that time. This deficiency was corrected at reinspection on May 24, 1994. Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY, the operator of WHITFIELD ACADEMY, posts a list of employees in her office which designates the employee in charge in her absence. Because of the chronic problems encountered during inspections by HRS at WHITFIELD ACADEMY, employees of the facility were reluctant to acknowledge responsibility for the facility and accept HRS inspection reports. Fire Code Violations On January 24, 1991, in response to the complaints described in Paragraph 48, above, a deputy fire marshal with the Southern Manatee Fire & Rescue District, verified that WHITFIELD ACADEMY did not comply with appropriate fire code standards in that the employees were not properly trained in fire drill procedures, the fire drill log was not properly completed, and the fire drill log inaccurately reflected that fire drills had been regularly conducted at the facility. These deficiencies were corrected at reinspection on February 8, 1991. Premises Safety Hazards On October 10, 1990, during a routine quarterly inspection, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to maintain outdoor equipment free from hazards. This deficiency was cited because of a shattered window pane glass located on the side of the building next to the playground. At reinspection on October 30, 1990 the deficiency had not been corrected. The deficiency had been corrected by reinspection on November 13, 1990. Respondents replaced the shattered window pane glass with a shatterproof new window which required a special order. The delay in correcting this deficiency was caused by the shipping time for this special order. Unsanitary Conditions On February 23, 1995, during a routine quarterly inspection, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to maintain adequate toilet facilities in violation of Rule 10M-12.003(6)(b), Florida Administrative Code, because of a clogged toilet in the boys' bathroom. The toilet was clogged again at reinspection on March 9, 1995. At reinspection on March 23, 1995, this deficiency was corrected. Children at WHITFIELD ACADEMY occasionally placed items in the toilets. Respondents cleaned and unclogged the toilets on a timely basis. The incident described in Paragraph 59, above, resulted from a child. Corporal Punishment On or about August 17, 1994, an abuse report was filed with HRS alleging that an employee of WHITFIELD ACADEMY used corporal punishment in the discipline of her own child who was attending the facility. The report further alleged that the corporal punishment was inflicted on the child with the permission of Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY in violation of Rule 10M-12.013(1)(c), Florida Administrative Code. This incident resulted in a proposed confirmed report of abuse. Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY did not authorize or otherwise permit the infliction of corporal punishment by an employee of WHITFIELD ACADEMY in the discipline the employee's child on or about August 17, 1994. Nonconstructive Discipline During a routine quarterly inspection on April 7, 1995, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for subjecting a child to severe, frightening or humiliating discipline in violation of Rule 10M-12.013(1)(b), Florida Administrative Code. At this time an employee was attempting to restrain a child from biting other children, and was overheard by an HRS investigator to say to the child, "Are you crazy, are you out of your mind?" Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY was not present at the facility when this incident occurred. Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY took remedial measures to address this incident with the employee, and upon reinspection on April 21, 1995, this deficiency was corrected. Hepatitis A Outbreak At the end of July of 1992, twenty-one cases of Hepatitis A, a highly infectious disease, were reported in Manatee County, Florida. At least one reported case was related to a child who had formerly been in attendance at WHITFIELD ACADEMY. The Manatee County Public Health Unit determined that in addition to the former attendee at the facility, thirteen of the other twenty- one reported cases had an association with WHITFIELD ACADEMY. There were no confirmed cases of Hepatitis A found in children in attendance at WHITFIELD ACADEMY, nor in any employees of the facility at that time. As a result of the association of reported cases of Hepatitis A with WHITFIELD ACADEMY, Manatee County Public Health officials recommended that preventative measures be taken at the facility, and that attendees and employees of the facility be tested for immunity to the disease, and if not immune receive Immune Globulin injections. Notifications were also sent to the parents of attending children. Arrangements were made with Manatee County Public Health to provide Immune Globulin injections at WHITFIELD ACADEMY. On the day the injections were given, there was insufficient Immune Globulin available to provide immunizations to all attendees, parents, and employees of the facility, including the Respondents and their family, who had requested the injections. Persons unable to obtain injections at the facility were instructed to contact the Manatee County Public Health Unit; however, there were further problems with obtaining sufficient Immune Globulin which resulted in delays in the inoculation of some of those persons requesting the treatment. Respondents and their family members were inoculated with Immune Globulin. As a result of the initial failure of the Respondents to receive Immune Globulin, and other problems relating to the recommendations for preventative measures at the facility, on August 7, 1992, HRS instituted proceedings in circuit court, Case No. CA-92-003149, Fla. 12th Cir, seeking a temporary restraining order against WHITFIELD ACADEMY from operation for at least sixty days. To resolve this action, WHITFIELD ACADEMY agreed to close from August 12, 1992 through August 23, 1992, to complete a terminal cleaning of the facility by August 24, 1992, to continue immunizations for at least six weeks after any reported case of Hepatitis A was associated with the facility, and to implement certain sanitation measures. The agreement was incorporated into an Order entered by the circuit court on August 24, 1992. Respondents complied with the terms of this agreement. Respondents reasonably cooperated with HRS officials in addressing the problems associated with the outbreak of Hepatitis A in July of 1992. Subsequent to August 24, 1992, there were no confirmed reports of cases of Hepatitis A associated with WHITFIELD ACADEMY. Other Violations On October 30, 1990, an employee of WHITFIELD ACADEMY informed HRS inspectors that a reinspection of the facility could not be conducted until Respondent KAREN PILLSBURY returned. After being shown Section 402.311, Florida Statutes, which authorizes HRS inspections, the employee allowed the inspectors to conduct a partial reinspection. Upon Respondent's return, an inspection was completed. This violation has not reoccurred. During a routine inspection on September 11, 1990, HRS cited WHITFIELD ACADEMY for failure to maintain proper medical examination certificates or immunization records in violation of Rule 10M-12.008, Florida Administrative Code. This deficiency was not corrected at reinspection on September 28, 1990; however these records were subsequently brought into compliance. As a result of the continuing problems at WHITFIELD ACADEMY relating to the record-keeping and other deficiencies, two meetings were conducted on April 16, 1991, with HRS representatives and Respondents and their counsel, at which time agreement on a course of action for resolving these problems was reached. Respondents have made a reasonable effort to comply with this agreement.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing findings of fact and conclusions of law, it is RECOMMENDED that: A Final Order be entered finding that the charges against Respondents ELMER ROGER PILLSBURY, KAREN PILLSBURY, and WHITFIELD ACADEMY are insufficient to warrant licensure revocation, and that the Administrative Complaint filed against Respondents be DISMISSED. RECOMMENDED in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida, this 29th day of November, 1995. RICHARD HIXSON Hearing Officer Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1550 (904) 488-9675 Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 29th day of November, 1995. APPENDIX As to Petitioner's Proposed Findings 1 - 2. Accepted and Incorporated. 3 - 5. Accepted and Incorporated except that Respondent also has complied with the terms of the settlement agreement. 6 - 7. Accepted and Incorporated except that the deficiencies were corrected. 8. Accepted, except that Respondents and their counsel agreed to cooperate with HRS to remedy the problems. 9 - 15. Accepted and Incorporated, except that the cited deficiencies were corrected. 16. Accepted, except that the replacement glass was on special order, and the problem was corrected. 17 - 25. Accepted, except that the deficiencies were corrected. 26. Accepted, except that Respondents reasonably cooperated with health officials and were finally inoculated. 27 - 35. Accepted and Incorporated, except that the deficiencies were corrected. Rejected to the extent that Respondent authorized corporal punishment. Rejected as irrelevant. 38 - 42. Accepted and Incorporated, except that the deficiencies were corrected. COPIES FURNISHED: Raymond R. Deckert, Esquire DHRS, District 6 Legal Office 4000 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Tampa, Florida 33614 Earl W. Baden, Jr., Esquire 1101 Sixth Avenue West Post Office Box 1907 Bradenton, Florida 34206 Robert L. Powell, Agency Clerk DHRS 1323 Winewood Boulevard Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0700
The Issue The issue is whether Respondent violated Florida Statutes and Rules concerning the delivery of childcare services and should receive fines and other penalties in accordance with Florida law. For the reasons set forth more fully below, Petitioner violated certain provisions of the Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative Code and should be subjected to fines and probation.
Findings Of Fact Respondent 3 in 1 Learning Center (the Center) is a child care facility licensed by the Department. A licensed child care facility has the responsibility for providing care to those children who have been placed in its care. Families in Duval County rely upon the Department to monitor child care facilities and ensure compliance with the Florida Statutes and Department's administrative rules. On March 15, 2010, Family Services Counselor Meike Rice received a complaint regarding the Center. The complaint alleged that the Center was transporting children in its 15-passenger van from Head Start to the Center without meeting the proper requirements. Transporting children in a van without the appropriate seat belts or child safety restraints is a dangerous activity that could result in death or serious injury. Ms. Rice visited the Center on March 15, 2010, and saw the van with the engine running and two staff members, Latrice Evans and Lisa Perkins, sitting in the front seat. Ms. Rice asked the staff to turn off the van. She then looked inside the van and observed young children without proper seat belt restraints or car seats. There were eight children in the van. The first row had one child; the second row had two children sharing a seat belt; the third row had two children; and the last row had three children, one of whom was crawling around, one of whom was in a car seat, and one of whom was on the bench seat. Ms. Rice spoke to the van driver, Latrice Evans, and the passenger, Lisa Perkins, whom she knew better as Arial Perkins, and told them of her concerns regarding the complaint and their transportation of the children. Ms. Rice documented on her complaint review that the driver lacked a driver's license, and that her personnel record did not have a copy of the certification to grant them approval to transport children. Moreover, the van had not been certified by the Department as appropriate for transporting children in a day care facility setting. Ms. Rice had been previously informed by Ms. Perkins that she was employed by the facility since December of 2009, but the staff was unable to provide any documentation of her employment history on the date of Ms. Rice's visit. Ms. Rice found that Ms. Perkins was missing Form 5131, the background screening and personnel file requirement form; verification of her employment for the past two years; documentation of an attestation of good moral character; and a fingerprint card for purposes of conducting the state and federal criminal checks. Ms. Perkins was employed by the Center from November 16, 2009, until January 2010, and was only visiting the Center on the date of Ms. Rice's visit. After observing the van, Ms. Rice entered the Center to conduct a count of the children and to review the Center's records. In the Center, Ms. Rice counted 19 children, putting the Center at its licensed capacity. However, when the eight children in the van were counted, the Center far exceeded its licensed capacity. Ms. Rice informed the Center's director, Ms. Wallace, that she needed to call parents to pick up their children in order for the Center to get back into compliance with its licensed capacity. Ms. Rice spent about two hours at the Center on her March 15, 2010, visit. Ms. Rice issued an Administrative Warning letter to the facility regarding its overall licensed capacity, room capacity, transportation logs, and lack of background screening documents. Ms. Rice returned to her office to address the matters she discovered while investigating the complaint. Ms. Rice and her supervisors determined the violation based upon the lack of proper child restraints for the young children in the van was a Class I violation from which a fine could ensue in the amount of a minimum of $100 to a maximum of $500. The Department decided to impose the maximum fine of $500 based on the number of children who were lacking the required safety restraints and the lack of seat belts. Violation 2 was based upon the employment history check of Ms. Perkins. Since this was the third Class II violation against the Center, having had previous violations on June 23, 2009, and November 10, 2009, the fine would be $60 per each day of violation. Ms. Rice found no documentation at the time of her inspection concerning Ms. Perkins' employment history, and therefore, made the beginning point for calculating the fine December 31, 2009, and culminating on her March 15, 2010, visit, for a total of 49 days. At $60 per day, the fine amounted to $2,940. Violation 3 was based on the lack of a fingerprint card for Ms. Perkins. This was the first occurrence of violating the standard, the Center having been previously cited on November 10, 2009, with a warning, so a flat $50 fine was imposed. Violation 4 concerned having the attestation of good moral character on hand for an employee. The Center was previously cited three times for this offense. This Class III violation was documented on June 23, 2009, November 10, 2009, and December 1, 2009. Using the same time period as she used for the other major fine, Ms. Rice issued a fine of $30 per day for 49 days, totaling $1,470. Ms. Rice received by fax a copy of the local background check, a copy of the fingerprint card, a copy of final disposition of a criminal case, and a copy of an FDLE report on March 16, 2010, concerning Ms. Perkins. This reinforced her belief that Ms. Perkins was employed by the Center. Ms. Rice worked closely with the Center's director, Ms. Wallace, on each visit to ensure the staff files were reviewed and contained the required information. Ms. Wallace, the director of the Center since November 29, 2009, provided at the hearing exhibits regarding Ms. Perkins, many of which were not previously provided by fax to Ms. Rice. These exhibits included: Ms. Perkins reference check form; her background screening and transfer request; her employment history; her Background Screening and Personnel File Requirements form; her CPR and first aid cards; her Application for Employment in a Child Care Facility; her Attestation of Good Moral Character; her Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Requirements Acknowledgement; her Application for Employment; her FDLE records check; her Sheriff's Office record check; her fingerprint card; and her letter of discharge dated January 6, 2010. These documents demonstrate that Ms. Perkins was an employee at the Center until January 6, 2010, but not on the date of Ms. Rice's inspection, March 15, 2010. Charles Smith, the Owner of the Center, did not dispute the violations concerning the eight children in the van.
Recommendation Based upon the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, RECOMMENDED that the Department issue a final order imposing a fine of $500 against Respondents and placing 3 in 1 Childcare and Learning Center on probationary status for six months. DONE AND ENTERED this 15th day of November, 2010, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S ROBERT S. COHEN Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 15th day of November, 2010. COPIES FURNISHED: Charles Smith 3 in 1 Childcare and Learning Center 4025 Emerson Street Jacksonville, Florida 32207 Roger L. D. Williams, Esquire Department of Children and Family Services 5920 Arlington Expressway Jacksonville, Florida 32231 George H. Sheldon, Secretary Department of Children and Family Services Building 1, Room 202 1317 Winewood Boulevard Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0700 Gerald B. Curington, General Counsel Department of Children and Family Services Building 2, Room 204 1317 Winewood Boulevard Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0700 Gregory Venz, Agency Clerk Department of Children and Family Services Building 2, Room 204B 1317 Winewood Boulevard Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0700
The Issue The issue in this proceeding is whether Respondent committed the violations as alleged in the Administrative Complaint and, if so, what is the appropriate penalty.
Findings Of Fact The Department of Children and Families is the agency charged with the responsibility of licensing child care facilities in the State of Florida. § 402.305, Fla. Stat. Respondent was licensed by the Department to operate a child care facility located in Callahan, Florida. Tausha Howard is the co-owner/director of Agape, and has been since it opened approximately 10 years ago. Tracey Flanders is a family services counselor. As a family services counselor, Ms. Flanders is responsible for inspecting child care facilities and family child care homes. Agape was one of the child care facilities that she inspected. She has been a family services counselor for three years and prior to that was a child protective investigator for DCF. Prior to her employment with DCF, she was a preschool teacher for eight years, which included some supervisory responsibilities and knowledge of compliance with DCF rules. Out of Ratio/Improper Supervision The Administrative Complaint charged Respondent with being out-of-ratio regarding the number of children per staff member in violation of Florida Administrative Code Rule 65C- 22.001(4)(b)2. Specifically, the Administrative Complaint alleges as follows: During a routine inspection conducted on March 6, 2013, DCF licensing counselor Tracey Flanders observed that: There was one (1) staff member supervising seven (7) children between the ages of one (1) and two (2) years old. A ratio of one staff for (6) children is required. This violation is based on Ms. Flanders’ observations during a March 6, 2013 routine inspection of Agape. She did a walk-through of the facility and examined the children’s records. As part of her walkthrough, she went to all of the classrooms. In each classroom, she counted the children and inspected for cleanliness. While in the toddler room, Ms. Flanders observed the children playing on the floor around the teacher. She counted seven children between the ages of one to two years old being supervised by one teacher. There was one two-year-old and six one-year-old children. Ms. Flanders explained at hearing that in mixed age groups, the required ratio of the youngest child applies. For mixed aged groups of children between one and two years of age, the minimum staff to child ratio is one staff member to six children. Agape has a classroom for preschool children, as well as one for the toddler children. Ms. Howard, however, disagrees that there were seven children in the toddler room and insisted that there were only six. She believes there was some kind of “miscommunication or oversight” because the seventh child (W.) had recently “aged out” of the toddler room and had been moved to the preschool class. The toddler class was where W. was assigned prior to his second birthday and reassignment to the preschool class. At the time of the inspection, the preschool children were out on the playground and came in while Ms. Flanders was present. Ms. Howard recalls she was standing in the baby room window. According to Ms. Howard, W. was being redirected from “bothering the blocks” to go rejoin the preschool group who was having story time. Therefore, she contends that the child was not in the toddler room, but was being redirected into the preschool classroom. Ms. Flanders insists that Ms. Howard was not with her when this incident happened, that the children were playing on the floor, and that the two-year-old in question (W.) was not moved from the toddler room to the preschool room when she was there. Accordingly, she cited Respondent for an out-of-ratio violation. Prior to the March 6, 2013 routine inspection, Agape had previous instances of being in violation of the ratio requirements. As a result of prior Administrative Complaints which included ratio violations, DCF and Respondent entered into a settlement agreement in March 2013, in which Respondent acknowledged that there have been five Class II ratio violations within a two-year period. Additionally, Respondent agreed that if future ratio violations occurred, the license “will again be subject to suspension or revocation.” The settlement agreement also stated that Respondent would finish out its then current probationary status through March 11, 2013, at which time Agape would be returned to an annual license. It is assumed that since the instant Administrative Complaint was dated April 11, 2013, that the license is currently on regular license status. Immunization Form Violation The Administrative Complaint charged Respondent with not having required immunization forms for children in its care, in violation of Florida Administrative Code Rule 65C- 22.006(2)(c). Specifically, the Administrative Complaint alleged that during the routine inspection by Ms. Flanders on March 6, 2013, she observed that a current form 680, Florida Certification of Immunization, was missing for two children. This allegation was based upon a file review made by Ms. Flanders which revealed that immunization records for two of the children, H.A. and M.C., had expired. The same violation was cited three previous times within a two-year period. On a reinspection, the center’s immunization records were current. According to Ms. Howard, the child, H.A., was out of the center for a medical reason and was not enrolled in the center at that time. However, his file was still there. Further, she discussed this with Ms. Flanders and afterwards wrote a statement that H.A. was not currently enrolled in the school and placed it in his file. As for child M.C., the child was enrolled but was no longer attending the center until M.C. obtained a current immunization record. Ms. Flanders explained that the child care facility must inform her if a child is enrolled but not attending. In that event, she skips that child’s record during her review. Level 2 Screening Documentation The Administrative Complaint charged Respondent with a violation of Florida Administrative Code Rule 65C-22.006(4)(d) and alleged the following: Documentation of Level 2 screening was missing for one (1) staff member. The Preschool Teacher’s adult son, D.W., was observed in the classroom with children on more than one occasion. Director stated D.W. is at the facility one (1) to two (2) hours a day, every other day. Licensing Counselor previously advised provider D.W. could not be present without passing a Level 2 screening. These charges were based on Ms. Flanders observing the adult son (D.W.) of one of the preschool teachers sitting at the desk in the preschool room with the children present, and the content of a conversation she had with Ms. Howard regarding this issue. There is an exception to the background screening requirement for volunteers who work there less than 10 hours a month. Accordingly, Ms. Flanders spoke to Ms. Howard to determine how often D.W. was at the school. According to Ms. Flanders, Ms. Howard told her that he would come to the daycare and wait before work every other day for an hour or two before walking to Winn-Dixie. Ms. Flanders calculated that every other day would be 15 days a month, for one or two hours each time. Therefore, she determined that he was there more than 10 hours a month. D.W. does not have background screening on file. The Administrative Complaint states that the same violation was previously cited on May 14, 2011, resulting in Technical Assistance, making this the second Class II violation within two years about persons caring for children without background screening. Ms. Howard, however, denies that D.W. was ever in her child care center that frequently. According to Ms. Howard, D.W.’s family temporarily (for about a month to a month and a half) had only one car. During that time, D.W. would come to the center, but was only there a total of 2 hours in a month. “Again, D.W. is not in my center. He’s not ever been in my center every other day. He’s not ever been in my center more than 30 minutes to an hour.” Moreover, Ms. Howard asserts that when D.W. was in her center, he was not with the children but was in a classroom where there were no children. Both Ms. Flanders and Ms. Howard were credible witnesses.
Recommendation Based upon the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that the Department of Children and Families enter a final order placing Respondent’s license on probation until the related cases involving Respondent have been heard and final orders entered; and imposing a fine of $100 per day for one day, and $30 per day for eight days, for a total of $340. DONE AND ENTERED this 8th day of May, 2014, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S BARBARA J. STAROS Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 SUNCOM 278-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 8th day of May, 2014
The Issue The issues to be determined are whether Respondent committed the violations as alleged in the Administrative Complaint (AC), and, if so, the appropriate penalty.
Findings Of Fact DCF is the state agency responsible for licensing child care facilities and enforcing regulations to maintain the health, safety, and sanitary conditions at those facilities operating in the State of Florida. See §§ 402.305-.311, Fla. Stat.; and Fla. Admin. Code R. 65C-22.010. In order to fulfill its regulatory duty, DCF conducts complaint and routine inspections. The factual allegations, as stated in the AC, provide the following: a. On December 20, 2018, the Department received an allegation that the owner/ director of the facility hit a child on the face with a ruler and slapped him. The teacher also hit another child on the chest with a ruler and that a child had slight bruising and a round scratch under his left eye. The Department conducted an investigation into these allegations starting on December 28, 2018. At the conclusion of the investigation, the Department determined the facility committed Class I violations of child care facility standards for child abuse and unscreened individuals. Licensing Counselor, Tiffani Brown, along with a Child Protective Investigator (CPI) Barbara Smith commenced their investigation on December 28, 2018, after the facility reopened from the holidays. They met with the owners [sic] daughter, Danita Gaines and spoke to the owner via the phone. While at the facility, Counselor Brown questioned Anthony Council, who stated he does help take care of children. Mr. Council was located in a room with children present. Mr. Council is not background screened and was ordered to leave. The owner, Cloe Gaines was on vacation and would not return until 1/2/19. Counselor Brown and CPI Smith returned to the facility on 1/2/19 to speak to the owner. Ms. Cloe Gaines was interviewed, and she stated she is a foster parent. Due to the allegations, Ms. Cloe Gaines was handed a restriction letter, which she signed and left the facility. Counselor Brown and CPI Smith interviewed Ms. Cloe Gaines [sic] foster children. The first foster child, G.M. said for punishment Ms. Cloe Gaines makes him go to sleep. The second foster child, M.M. continued to nod her head indicating yes when asked if he gets spanked for punishment. Counselor Brown and CPI Smith interviewed four other children at the facility. The first child, A.J. stated that Mrs. Cloe whips them with a belt or ruler on the arms and hands. The second child, A.J. stated that Mrs. Cloe hits people if they be bad. The third child, O.E. said that Mrs. Cloe hits them if they are bad with a blue ruler that she keeps in her desk. The last child, T.J. stated that they get hit with a pink and purple ruler that is kept in the classroom. The children were taken to be interviewed by the Child Protection Team for forensic interviews, which were again verified. Based upon the factual allegations in paragraph 3 above, the AC asserts that those allegations constitute the following Class I violations: a. On January 4, 2019, Anthony Council, is an unscreened individual who was left alone to care for children, in violation of Section 435.06(2)(a), Florida Statutes. This constitutes a Class I violation of Child Care Licensing Standard, CF-FSP Form 5316, 4-18, October 2017, incorporated by reference, 65C-22.010(1)(e)l, F.A.C. b. The owner, operator, employee or substitute, while caring for children, committed an act or omission that meets the definition of child abuse or neglect as provided in Chapter 39, Florida Statutes in that four children disclosed child abuse at the hands of the owner Cloe Gaines. A.J., A.J., O.E., and TJ. [sic] disclosed that they are victims of child abuse by Ms. Gaines when she hits them with belts and rulers as a form of discipline in violation of CCF Handbook, Section 8.2, A. This constitutes four (4) Class I Violations of Child Care Licensing Standard, CF-FSP Form 5316, 47-02 and ll-06, October 2017, incorporated by reference, 65C- 22.010(1)(e)1, FAC. Respondent was licensed by DCF to operate a child care facility located at 1550 King Street, Cocoa, Florida. During the hearing, it was disclosed that the Academy had been closed for at least a month. Cloe Gaines (Ms. Gaines) is the owner/director of the Academy. Danita Gaines, Ms. Gaines’ daughter, has worked at the Academy since 2015 as a teacher in the two-year-old classroom. Anthony Council is Ms. Gaines’ grandson and performed maintenance several times at the Academy when asked to do so by Ms. Gaines. Additionally, Mr. Council has a son who attended the Academy. On December 20, 2018, DCF received allegations that Ms. Gaines had hit a child on the face with a ruler. On December 21, 2018, DCF attempted to investigate the alleged child abuse complaint. However, the Academy was closed for winter break, and scheduled to reopen on December 28, 2018. Child Protective Investigator (CPI) Smith, a 13-year DCF employee, located two of the alleged victims of the Academy at their respective homes on December 21, 2018. CPI Smith interviewed B.T., a four-year-old male, who stated that he and his cousin, T.J., were arguing at the Academy. Ms. Gaines called on them and she struck B.T. on the face with a ruler, which caused B.T.’s face to bleed. B.T. stated that T.J. raised his arm in front of his chest and T.J. was struck on his arm. Based on B.T.’s comments, CPI Smith requested that B.T. be taken to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Brevard (CACB) for a video-recorded interview. During the video-recorded interview, B.T. was forthcoming about the injuries he sustained at the Academy. B.T. again stated that he and T.J. were arguing and playing, and Ms. Gaines hit him (B.T.) on the face with a ruler, which caused his face to bleed. B.T. said Ms. Gaines gave him a band-aid for his face. Pictures taken of B.T. on December 21, 2018, show the injuries B.T. sustained. CPI Smith substantiated or verified the abuse of B.T. by Ms. Gaines. B.T. also told CPI Smith where Ms. Gaines kept the ruler she used to hit him. When CPI Smith returned to the Academy, she located the blue ruler in Ms. Gaines’ desk drawer. Another alleged victim, T.J., was also interviewed at his residence on December 21, 2018. T.J. recounted that he and B.T. were playing and fighting when Ms. Gaines called them. T.J. provided that Ms. Gaines hit B.T. on the face, and that he, T.J., was hit on the arm with a ruler. CPI Smith was unable to substantiate abuse of T.J. because there were no physical indicators on T.J. at the time of the interview. CPI Smith and Tiffani Brown, a DCF child care regulation counselor and licensing counselor, returned to the Academy when it reopened on December 28, 2018, to investigate the child abuse allegations. Ms. Gaines was not present, but the DCF employees spoke with Danita Gaines, who said Ms. Gaines was on vacation and would return on January 2, 2019. The two DCF employees returned to the Academy in January 2019. When CPI Smith returned to the Academy, she interviewed two other alleged victims, twins A.J. and AK.J. AK.J., the male twin, provided that Ms. Gaines was mean, whips students on the arms and hands, and will make them stand by the wall with their hands raised over their heads. As a result of his interview at the Academy, AK.J. was asked to go to the CACB for a video- recorded interview. A.J., the female twin, stated that Ms. Gaines hit her (A.J.) on her hands and arms with the ruler, and makes them (the children) stand beside the wall, “if they be bad.” CPI Smith asked that A.J. be taken to CACB for a video-recorded interview also. In AK.J.’s video-recorded interview, he provided the name of his favorite Academy teacher, but stated that he did not like Ms. Cloe (Ms. Gaines) because she was mean and “pops” people with a ruler. AK.J. said he was scared of Ms. Gaines; the ruler was hard; and it hurt when he was struck. During A.J.’s video-recorded interview, she recounted that Ms. Gaines and her daughter, “Ms. Danita,” were mean. A.J. also stated Ms. Gaines “whooped” her (A.J.) with a ruler and at times Ms. Gaines made all the children stand at the wall with their hands raised over their heads. On January 2, 2019, Counselor Brown, a DCF employee of nine years, observed Mr. Council walking outside the Academy with several students following him. Mr. Council does not have the required background screening approval to care for children in a daycare setting, and a background screened teacher was not present when Counselor Brown first observed Mr. Council. The background screened teacher appeared a minute or so later. During the hearing, Mr. Council provided that he was at the Academy daily, either dropping off or picking up his son. Mr. Council further testified that he performed various maintenance tasks that Ms. Gaines asked him to perform, such as changing filters for the air-conditioning vents and policing the playground, all while children were present. Mr. Council admitted that Ms. Gaines had told him (Mr. Council) to get the required background screening completed, but he had not done so.
Recommendation Based on the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, it is RECOMMENDED that Petitioner, Department of Children and Families, enter a final order revoking the license of CG Academy. DONE AND ENTERED this 4th day of June, 2019, in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. S LYNNE A. QUIMBY-PENNOCK Administrative Law Judge Division of Administrative Hearings The DeSoto Building 1230 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3060 (850) 488-9675 Fax Filing (850) 921-6847 www.doah.state.fl.us Filed with the Clerk of the Division of Administrative Hearings this 4th day of June, 2019.
