Kindercare Learning Center

AAC R9-5-605.B.6. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 6. Except for a room used only for an enrolled school-age child, each unused electrical outlet is covered with a safety plug cover or insert;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there was an uncovered outlet on the south wall in the 3's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-301.I. I. At least once a month, and at different times of the day, a licensee shall ensure that: 1. An unannounced practice drill that includes evacuation, relocation, shelter-in place, and lock downs are conducted; 2. Each staff member, volunteer, and enrolled child at the facility participates in the practice drill; 3. If applicable, accommodations are made for an enrolled child with a special need or disability according to the enrolled child's individualized plan as specified in R9-5-507(A)(1); 4. If applicable, accommodations are made for an enrolled child or infant who is not yet walking; and 5. Document each practice drill and maintain the documentation on facility premises for 12 months after the date of the practice drill.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined a fire drill was not documented for January 2026 and February 2026.”

AAC R9-5-307.2. A licensee shall ensure that the licensee or a staff member documents and reports all suspected or alleged cases of child abuse or neglect. 2. The licensee or staff member shall report the suspected or alleged child abuse by a staff member to the Department and to a local law enforcement agency as prescribed in A.R.S. § 13-3620. A licensee or staff member shall also send documentation to the Department and to any law enforcement agency previously notified within three calendar days of the initial report, and maintain documentation of a child abuse report on facility premises for 12 months after the date of a report.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and staff interview, it was determined that the facility failed to report suspected child abuse by a staff member to the Department and law enforcement. According to staff, the employee used an inappropriate form of discipline on a child and was terminated as a result.”

AAC R9-5-309.C. C. A licensee shall maintain on facility premises: 1. A current fire inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the fire inspection report; and 2. If there are gas pipes that run from a gas meter to an appliance or location on the facility premises, a current gas inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the gas inspection report.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the facility lacked a current violation free fire inspection.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.3. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 3. For enrolled infants and children five-years or younger, drinking water is available to meet the needs of each enrolled child;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that water was not accessible to the enrolled children in the 1's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.18. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 18. Except as provided in subsection (A)(20), the following are stored separate from food storage areas and are inaccessible to an enrolled child: a. All materials and chemicals labeled as a toxic or flammable substance; b. All substances that have a child warning label and may be a hazard to a child; and c. Lawn mowers, ladders, toilet brushes, plungers, and other facility equipment that may be a hazard to a child;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there was a plunger on the floor next to the toilet in the 4's restroom.”

AAC R9-5-501.B.6. B. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member: 6. For enrolled children five-years or younger, and except as provided in subsection (C), prepares, posts, and implements a dated lesson plan in each indoor activity area for each calendar week, which is maintained on facility premises for 12 months after the lesson plan date and provides opportunities for each child to: a. Gain a positive self-concept; b. Develop and practice social skills; c. Think, reason, question, and experiment; d. Acquire language skills; e. Develop physical coordination skills; f. Participate in structured large muscle physical activity; g. Develop habits that meet health, safety, and nutritional needs; h. Express creativity; i. Learn to respect cultural diversity of children and staff; j. Learn self-help skills; and k. Develop a sense of responsibility and independence;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the lesson plan was not dated in the 1's classroom and in the 3's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-502.C.3.a. C. A licensee shall ensure that: 3. When preparing, using, or caring for an infant's feeding bottles, a staff member: a. Labels each bottle received from the parent with the infant's name;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that there were 2 unlabeled bottles in the Infant classroom.”

AAC R9-5-503.A.2. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains: 2. A hand-washing sink next to the diaper changing surface for staff use when changing diapers and for washing an enrolled child during or after diapering that provides: a. Running water between 86° F and 110° F, b. Soap from a dispenser, and c. Single-use paper hand towels from a dispenser;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the water temperature in the diaper handwashing sink in the 1's classroom was 114° F and 72° F in the 3's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-503.A.3.4. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains: 3. At least one waterproof, sanitizable container with a waterproof liner and a tight fitting lid for soiled diapers; and 4. At least one waterproof, sanitizable container with a waterproof liner and a tight fitting lid for soiled clothing.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the container for soiled diapers lacked a lid in the 3's classroom. Additionally, the diaper changing area in the 3's classroom lacked a container for soiled clothing.”

AAC R9-5-512.B. B. A licensee shall maintain facility premises and furnishings: 1. In a clean condition, and 2. Free from odor.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the following areas of the facility were not maintained in a clean condition: *There were bird droppings along the north side of the 1's playground. *There was an accumulation of dirt and grime on the threshold by the east door in the 4's classroom. *There were brown smudges on the floor in the 1's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-512.F.1. F. A licensee shall ensure that: 1. Each toilet room in a facility contains, within easy reach of enrolled children: a. Mounted toilet tissue; and b. Except as provided in subsection (G): i. A sink with running water; ii. Soap contained in a dispenser; and iii. Disposable, single-use paper towels in a mounted dispenser, or a mechanical air hand dryer;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that 3's restroom lacked mounted toilet paper.”

AAC R9-5-603.B. B. Except as provided in subsection (D) a licensee shall ensure that an outdoor activity area: 1. Is enclosed by a fence: a. A minimum of 4 feet high; b. Secured to the ground; and c. With either vertical or horizontal open spaces on the fence or gate that do not exceed 4.0 inches; 2. Is maintained free from hazards, such as exposed concrete footings and broken toys; and 3. Has gates that are kept closed while an enrolled child is in the outdoor activity area

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there was chipped paint and an accumulation of rust at the base of the metal posts on the 1's playground and the 3's/'4s playground.”

AAC R9-5-503.A.1. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains: 1. A nonabsorbent, sanitizable diaper changing surface that is: a. Seamless and smooth, and b. Kept clear of items not required for diaper changing;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there were 2 paint brushes in the diaper handwashing sink in the 1's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-605.B.6. B. A licensee shall ensure that: 6. Except for a room used only for an enrolled school-age child, each unused electrical outlet is covered with a safety plug cover or insert;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there were 2 uncovered outlets on the west wall in the 2's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-603.C. C. Except as provided in subsection (D), a licensee shall ensure that an outdoor activity area:1. Is enclosed by a fence: a. A minimum of 4 feet high; b. Secured to the ground; and c. With either vertical or horizontal open spaces on the fence or gate that do not exceed 4.0 inches; 2. Is maintained free from hazards, such as exposed concrete footings and broken toys; and 3. Has gates that are kept closed while an enrolled child is in the outdoor activity area

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the following areas of the playground were not maintained free from hazards that were accessible to the enrolled children: 3's/4's playground: There was missing resilient material near the slide causing it to be a tripping hazard. 1's playground: There was peeling and chipped paint on the fencing along the north and east sides of the playground.”

AAC R9-5-512.F. F. A licensee shall ensure that:1. Each toilet room in a facility contains, within easy reach of enrolled children: a. Mounted toilet tissue; and b. Except as provided in subsection (G): i. A sink with running water; ii. Soap contained in a dispenser; and iii. Disposable, single-use paper towels in a mounted dispenser, or a mechanical air hand dryer; 2. Staff members wash their hands with soap and running water after toileting; 3. An enrolled child’s hands are washed with soap and running water after toileting; 4. Except for a cup or receptacle used only for water, food waste is stored in a covered container and the container is clean and lined with a plastic bag; 5. Food waste and other refuse is removed from the facility building at least once every 24 hours or more often as necessary to maintain a clean condition and avoid odors; 6. A staff member or an enrolled child does not draw water for human consumption from a toilet room handwashing sink; 7. Toys, materials, and equipment are maintained in a clean condition; 8. Plumbing fixtures are maintained in a clean and working condition; and 9. Chipped or cracked sinks and toilets are replaced or repaired.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the 2's restroom and the 3's girls' and boys' restrooms lacked mounted toilet paper. The 3's girls' and boys' restrooms also lacked single-use paper towels in a mounted dispenser. Additionally, the diaper hand-washing sink in the 2's classroom was broken and the water was leaking. There was a sign by the diaper changing table stating "The sink is broken, do not use."”

AAC R9-5-305.A. A. A licensee shall not permit an enrolled child to attend a facility until the facility receives: 1. An immunization record for the enrolled child with the information required in 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 7, documenting that the enrolled child has received all current, age-appropriate immunizations required under 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 7: a. Provided by a healthcare provider, or b. Generated from the Arizona State Immunization Information System, which is the Department’s child immunization reporting system established in A.R.S. § 36-135; or 2. An exemption affidavit for the enrolled child provided by the enrolled child’s parent that contains: a. A statement, signed by the enrolled child’s health care provider, that the immunizations required by 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 7 would endanger the enrolled child’s health or medical condition; or b. A statement, signed by the enrolled child’s parent, that the enrolled child is being raised in a religion whose teachings are in opposition to immunization.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that 10 out of the 25 enrolled children's Emergency, Information, and Immunization Record cards reviewed lacked attached an immunization record.”

AAC R9-5-512.B. B. A licensee shall maintain facility premises and furnishings:1. In a clean condition, and 2. Free from odor.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there was a strong and pungent sewer odor in the 2's, 3's, and 4's classrooms. The facility director stated that they were aware of the odor and several people had come to check it out and address the issue.”

AAC R9-5-501.C.4. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:4. Except as provided in subsection (D), prepares and posts in each indoor activity area, a current schedule of children’s age-appropriate activities, including the times the following are provided: a. Meals and snacks; b. Naps; c. Indoor activities; d. Outdoor or large muscle development activities; e. Quiet and active activities; f. Teacher-directed activities; g. Self-directed activities; h. Activities for individuals, groups of five or fewer children, and groups of six or more children; and i. Activities that develop small muscles;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the schedule was not posted in the 3's classroom and the 4's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-309.C. C. A licensee shall maintain on facility premises: 1. A current fire inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the fire inspection report; and 2. If there are gas pipes that run from a gas meter to an appliance or location on the facility premises, a current gas inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the gas inspection report.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the facility lacked a current fire inspection.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.18. A. A licensee shall ensure that:18. Each enrolled child’s pacifier is labeled with an identifier that is specific to the enrolled child and maintained in a clean condition;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that 4 pacifiers lacked an identifier in the Infant classroom.”

AAC R9-5-503.A.2. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains:2. A hand-washing sink next to the diaper changing surface for staff use when changing diapers and for washing an enrolled child during or after diapering that provides: a. Running water between 86° F and 110° F, b. Soap from a dispenser, and c. Single-use paper hand towels from a dispenser;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the water temperature in the diaper handwashing sink in the Infants and 1's classroom was 114° F and in the 2's classroom was 70° F.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.12. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 12. The facility premises, including the buildings, are maintained free from hazards;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the diaper changing table in the 2's classroom was missing a piece of laminate exposing particle wood that was rough to the touch.”

AAC R9-5-501.C.5. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:5. Except as provided in subsection (D), prepares and posts a dated lesson plan in each indoor activity area for each calendar week, which is maintained on facility premises for 12 months after the lesson plan date and provides opportunities for each child to: a. Gain a positive self-concept; b. Develop and practice social skills; c. Think, reason, question, and experiment; d. Acquire language skills; e. Develop physical coordination skills; f. Participate in structured large muscle physical activity; g. Develop habits that meet health, safety, and nutritional needs; h. Express creativity; i. Learn to respect cultural diversity of children and staff; j. Learn self-help skills; and k. Develop a sense of responsibility and independence;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the lesson plan was not posted in the 4's classroom.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.2. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 2. Except for an enrolled school-age child, drinking water is provided sufficient for the needs of and accessible to each enrolled child in both indoor and outdoor activity areas;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that water was not accessible to the enrolled children in the 1's classroom. The children's water bottles were kept in a plastic tub on a shelf that was not accessible to the children.”

AAC R9-5-503.A.1. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains:1. A nonabsorbent, sanitizable diaper changing surface that is: a. Seamless and smooth, and b. Kept clear of items not required for diaper changing;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there was a buildup of dirt and brown stains on the diaper changing surface in the 1's classroom making the surface unsanitizable.”

AAC R9-5-601.4. A licensee shall comply with the following physical plant requirements:4. Except as provided in subsection (5), when providing child care services for infants or children who require diapering, a diaper changing area that meets the requirements in R9-5-503 is available in each infant room or indoor activity area used by an enrolled infant or child who wears diapers or disposable training pants;

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that there were 6 children in the 3's classroom who were in pull-ups. The 3's classroom was not approved for diapering.”

AAC R9-5-512.D. D. A licensee shall ensure that toilet bowls, lavatory fixtures, and floors in toilet rooms and kitchens are cleaned and sanitized as often as necessary to maintain them in a clean and sanitized condition or at least once every 24 hours.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations, it was determined that the caulking was separating at the base of the toilets in the 2's classroom and the 4's classroom making the surface unsanitizable.”

AAC R9-5-303.B. B. A licensee shall ensure that the licensed capacity of each indoor activity area or room is posted in that activity area or room.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the capacity was not posted in the 2’s classroom.”

AAC R9-5-303.A. A. A licensee shall post in a place that can be conspicuously viewed by individuals entering or leaving the facility or activity area, the:1. Facility’s license; 2. Name of the facility director; 3. Name of the individual designated to act on behalf of the facility director when the facility director is not present in the facility, as prescribed by R9-5-301(B)(1); 4. Schedule of child care services fees and policy for refunding fees as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-882(P); 5. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack menus for each calendar week at the beginning of the calendar week; 6. Notice of the presence of any communicable disease or infestation listed in 9 A.A.C. 6, Article 2, Table 2, from the date of discovery through the incubation period of the communicable disease or infestation; 7. Notice of the Department’s intent to deny, revoke, or suspend as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-888 at the expiration of time in the notice for the licensee to respond; 8. Notice of an intermediate sanction imposed as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-891.01 within 10 calendar days after the licensee received notice of the intermediate sanction; 9. Notice of a legal injunction imposed as prescribed by A.R.S. § 36-886.01 when the licensee receives the legal injunction; and 10. Notice of the availability of facility inspection reports for public viewing at the facility premises.

“Findings: Based on the Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the menu posted on the posting board was dated for the week of 3/17/2025.”

AAC R9-5-203.D. D. A licensee shall ensure that each staff member submits to the licensee a copy of the staff member’s valid fingerprint clearance card each time the fingerprint clearance card is issued or renewed every six years.

“Findings: Based on Compliance Officers' observations and review of facility documentation, the file for Staff #1 (start date 6/1/21) had documentation of a fingerprint clearance card that expired on 1/30/2023 and had not been renewed.”

AAC R9-5-502.C.3.a. C. A licensee shall ensure that: 3. When preparing, using, or caring for an infant's feeding bottles, a staff member: a. Labels each bottle received from the parent with the infant's name;

“Findings: Based on facility documentation, the CO's and the COS' observations: In the infant room, there were 3 unlabeled bottles of milk.”

AAC R9-5-501.C.9. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:9. Does the following when a parent permits or asks a staff member to apply personal products on an enrolled child, such as petroleum jelly, diaper rash ointments, sun screen or sun block preparations, toothpaste, and baby diapering preparations: a. Obtains the enrolled child’s personal products from the enrolled child’s parent or, if the licensee provides the personal products for use by the enrolled child, obtains written approval for use of the products from the enrolled child’s parent; b. Labels the personal products with the enrolled child’s name; and c. Keeps the personal products inaccessible to enrolled children;

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and COS' observation, 3 of 8 containers of diaper cream and 4 of 8 container of wipes, lacked the first and last name of the enrolled child.”

AAC R9-5-502.A.8.b. A. A licensee providing child care services for infants shall: 8. Provide a crib for each infant that: b. Has a commercially waterproofed mattress; and

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the CO’s observation, 8 of 13 crib mattresses in the infant classroom were ripped or cracked and were no longer waterproof.”

AAC R9-5-502.A.8.c. A. A licensee providing child care services for infants shall: 8. Provide a crib for each infant that: c. Is furnished with clean, sanitized, crib-size bedding, including a fitted sheet and top sheet or a blanket;

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the CO’s observation, in the infant room, 4 of 13 crib sheets were loose and not tight fitting to the mattresses.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.1. A. A licensee shall ensure that:1. In addition to complying with the requirements in this Chapter, the health, safety, or welfare of an enrolled child is not placed at risk of harm;

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, the health, safety, or welfare of enrolled children were placed at risk of harm regarding the following: *In the Infant classroom there was an infant sleeping in the crib with a pacifier on a strap that was hooked to the infant's clothing. * In the 3’s classroom, two children had their heads covered with a blanket while napping. One child was next to the staff, another child was across the room from staff, out of sight from staff. *In the Pre-K classroom, the water fountain was next to the restroom hand-washing sink. Previously cited:4/15/2019”

AAC R9-5-501.A.9. A. A licensee shall ensure that:9. If a staff member places an enrolled child in a feeding chair when feeding the enrolled child: a. The feeding chair is constructed to prevent toppling; b. The tray or feeding surface of the feeding chair is smooth and free of cracks; and c. The staff member: i Cleans the feeding chair before and after each enrolled child’s use; ii. Sanitizes the tray or feeding surface before and after each enrolled child’s use; and iii. If the feeding chair was manufactured with a safety strap, fastens the feeding chair’s safety strap while the enrolled child is in the feeding chair;

“Findings: Based on the the CO's and the COS' observations, in the Toddler B classroom at lunch time, there were 3 children in feeding chairs, and the straps were not fastened.”

AAC R9-5-401.3. A licensee shall ensure that staff members meet the following qualifications for employment or volunteer service at a facility:3. A teacher-caregiver is 18 years of age or older and provides the licensee with documentation of one of the following: a. Six months of child care experience and: i. A high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma; or ii. At least 12 credit hours from an accredited college or university, including at least six credit hours in early childhood, child development, or a closely-related field; b. Associate or bachelor degree from an accredited college or university in early childhood, child development, or a closely-related field; or c. N.A.C., C.D.A., or C.C.P. credential;

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the COS' review of 6 staff files, Staff #5 lacked teacher-caregiver qualifications, because the document on file lacked verification. Previously cited: 4/19/2022”

AAC R9-5-501.A.12. A. A licensee shall ensure that: 12. The facility premises, including the buildings, are maintained free from hazards;

“Findings: Based on the CO’s and the COS’ observations the following hazards were found and accessible to children: Pre-K Classroom: *There was splintery, cracked, and exposed wood on the North window sill edging. *There were multiple areas on the West window sill that had splintery wood and rough to the touch. 2B Classroom: *In the bathroom, the caulking was cracked on the East sink. *There was rough rust on the bottom of the mirror. *There was a blue drying rack not placed properly on the table, the back legs were hanging off the table, causing it to be unstable and wobbly. *There were 12 foam climbing pieces piled on the carpet and up against the wall. Toddler 2 Classroom: *There was splintering wood on the window sills. Previously cited: 05/15/2020”

AAC R9-5-501.A.19. A. A licensee shall ensure that:19. Except as provided in subsection (A)(20), the following are stored separate from food storage areas and are inaccessible to an enrolled child: a. All materials and chemicals labeled as a toxic or flammable substance; b. All substances that have a child warning label and may be a hazard to a child; and c. Lawn mowers, ladders, toilet brushes, plungers, and other facility equipment that may be a hazard to a child;

“Findings: Based on the CO's and the COS' observations, the following were accessible to children: *In the 2A Classroom, there was a container of bleach and disinfect restroom cleaner in a cabinet that was slightly opened under the diaper changing area. *In the 3's Classroom, there was a container of glass and multi-purpose cleaner, sitting on the math and manipulative shelf. There was also a spray bottle with blue liquid on a low shelf in the middle of the room. Previously cited 4/27/2021”

AAC R9-5-501.A.13. A. A licensee shall ensure that:13. Toys and play equipment, required in this Article, are maintained: a. Free from hazards, and b. In a condition that allows the toy or play equipment to be used for the original purpose of the toy or play equipment;

“Findings: Based on the CO's and the COS' observation: In the Infant classroom, there were rips and tears exposing foam on the orange horse-shoe climber, on the purple circle climber, and on the red and green corners of the animal mat.”

AAC R9-5-404.C.3. C. A licensee shall ensure that:3. When six or more enrolled children are present in a facility, an infant is not placed for supervision with a child who is not an infant.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, a one year-old, who was walking, was placed in a group of 7 infants in the infant room.”

AAC R9-5-501.A.20. A. A licensee shall ensure that:20. Hand sanitizers: a. When being stored, are stored separate from food storage areas and are inaccessible to enrolled children; and b. When being provided for use, are accessible to enrolled children; and

“Findings: Based on the CO's and the COS' observations, in the 3's Classroom, there were 2 containers of hand sanitizer accessible to children located on a black plastic cart located near the back exit door.”

AAC R9-5-501.C.5. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member:5. Except as provided in subsection (D), prepares and posts a dated lesson plan in each indoor activity area for each calendar week, which is maintained on facility premises for 12 months after the lesson plan date and provides opportunities for each child to: a. Gain a positive self-concept; b. Develop and practice social skills; c. Think, reason, question, and experiment; d. Acquire language skills; e. Develop physical coordination skills; f. Participate in structured large muscle physical activity; g. Develop habits that meet health, safety, and nutritional needs; h. Express creativity; i. Learn to respect cultural diversity of children and staff; j. Learn self-help skills; and k. Develop a sense of responsibility and independence;

“Findings: Based on the facility documentation, the CO’s and the COS' observations, the following classrooms lacked a current dated lesson plan: *In 2A the lesson plan was dated 2/18-29/2024. *In 2B the lesson plan was dated March 2024. *In 3’s the lesson plan was not dated. Previously cited: 4/15/2019, 5/15/2020, 4/19/2022”

AAC R9-5-503.A.4. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains:4. At least one waterproof, sanitizable container with a waterproof liner and a tight fitting lid for soiled clothing.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations: In the Infant classroom, the soiled clothing container lacked a liner. The Toddler B classroom lacked a soiled clothing container. Previously cited:4/15/2019”

AAC R9-5-512.B. B. A licensee shall maintain facility premises and furnishings:1. In a clean condition, and 2. Free from odor.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, the facility had a strong odor of air freshener. The odor was stronger in the lobby and in the hallways. The following areas were found in an unclean condition: *In each bathroom, the exhaust vents and the ceiling surrounding the fan had a build up of debris and gray fuzzy dust. *In each classroom there was a build up of dirt and debris in the window sills. 2B Classroom: *The West white door had black and brown smudges around the door handle. *There were white and brown smudges on the windows. *There was a strong odor of cleaning solution. Infant Classroom: *The diaper changing table strip guard had dirt and debris in the corners. *On the sliding doors, the tracks, and corners of the cabinet below the diaper changing area, had a thick build up of black dirt. Toddler B classroom: *There was a strong odor of bleach upon entering the classroom.”

AAC R9-5-511.C. C. A licensee shall provide an unobstructed passageway at least 18 inches wide between each row of cots or mats to allow a staff member access to each enrolled child.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, in the 3’s classroom, at the front of the room, 3 occupied nap cots were spaced 11 inches apart, and at the back of the room, 2 occupied nap cots were spaced 14 inches apart.”

AAC R9-5-503.E. E. A licensee shall ensure that the written diaper changing procedure in subsection (D) states that an enrolled child’s diaper is changed as soon as it is soiled, and that a staff member, when diapering:1. Uses a separate washcloth and towel only once for each enrolled child; 2. Washes and dries the enrolled child using the enrolled child’s individual personal products labeled with the enrolled child’s name; 3. Uses single-use non-porous gloves; 4. Washes the staff member’s own hands with soap and running water between 86° F and 110° F before and after each diaper change; 5. Washes each enrolled child’s hands with soap and running water between 86° F and 110° F after each diaper change; 6. Cleans, sanitizes, and dries the diaper changing surface following each diaper change; and 7. Uses single-use paper towels from a dispenser to dry the diaper changing surface or the hands of the enrolled child or staff member.

“Findings: Based on the facility’s postings, the CO’s and the COS’s observations, the diaper changing procedures were not implemented during each diaper change. In the Toddler B Classroom, the staff member did not wash a child’s hands, the staff put the child on the floor, the child walked over to the lunch table and started eating lunch. With the same pair of gloves from the diaper change, the staff then used the tablet, wrote on the paper log, walked over to a child, then picked up the child to do a diaper change, while wearing used, dirty gloves. The COS stopped the staff member from proceeding with the diaper change to give the proper steps. In the 2B Classroom, the staff member did not wash the child’s hands after the diaper change. With dirty and used gloves, the staff member stood the child on the floor, the child ran over to the lunch table, the child held and opened another child’s water bottle. The staff member did not remove the gloves before touching other areas. The staff member did not wash their hands, they just put on the next set of gloves. The COS asked the staff member to explain the diaper changing procedure. The staff stated, “This is only my second day and first time diapering other than at home”.”

AAC R9-5-512.A. A. A licensee shall maintain facility premises free of insects and vermin.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, in the Toddler B Classroom, there were 5 dead bugs on the brown wooden cabinet to the right of the changing table. In the Pre-K Classroom, there were dead bugs along the base of the East exit door. On the East Playground, there was a build up of gnats surrounding a gray garbage can with dirt build up on lid. A large amount of gnats billowing out when the lid was lifted.”

AAC R9-5-503.A.3. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains:3. At least one waterproof, sanitizable container with a waterproof liner and a tight fitting lid for soiled diapers; and

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations the Infant classroom, soiled diaper container lacked a tight fitting lid. Previously cited: 4/15/2019, 4/14/2023”

AAC R9-5-503.A.2. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains:2. A hand-washing sink next to the diaper changing surface for staff use when changing diapers and for washing an enrolled child during or after diapering that provides: a. Running water between 86° F and 110° F, b. Soap from a dispenser, and c. Single-use paper hand towels from a dispenser;

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, in the 2B classroom, at the diaper changing sink the temperature for water was 67.3 not the required temperature between 86° F and 110° F. Previously cited: 4/19/2022, 4/14/2023”

AAC R9-5-503.A.1. A. A licensee shall ensure that each diaper changing area required in R9-5-601(4) contains:1. A nonabsorbent, sanitizable diaper changing surface that is: a. Seamless and smooth, and b. Kept clear of items not required for diaper changing;

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, the following were found in the diaper changing area: Infant classroom: *There was a round plastic magnet to the left of the diaper sink faucet. *There was a small white dry erase board behind the sink, resting on the faucet. *The diaper changing surface was not smooth, there was dirt and dust build up on and around the diaper changing area. 2A Classroom: *There was a container of Aquaphor left on the diaper changing surface. *The diaper changing surface was not smooth, there was dirt and dust build up on and around the diaper changing area. *The wall edges had a brown build up along wall. *The sink had green and brown build up behind, around, and on the faucet, the edge of and in the sink basin. Toddler B Classroom: *The diaper changing surface was not smooth, there was dirt and dust build up in and around the diaper changing area. *There was a clipboard, pen, and iPad on the ledge in the diaper changing area. Toddler A Classroom: *The diaper changing surface was not smooth, there was dirt and dust build up on and around the diaper changing area. *There was a thick build up along the wall of diaper changing area. *There was a clipboard, and a blue water bottle sitting on the diaper changing surface.”

AAC R9-5-512.D. D. A licensee shall ensure that toilet bowls, lavatory fixtures, and floors in toilet rooms and kitchens are cleaned and sanitized as often as necessary to maintain them in a clean and sanitized condition or at least once every 24 hours.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, the following areas were found in an unclean and sanitized condition: Pre-K: *In the right bathroom, there was yellow buildup at the toilet caulking. *There was a thick buildup of debris and dirt on the step stool feet *There was yellow liquid spills on wall by the toilet. *There was a yellow substance in the toilet. Toddler B: *There was a bottle of red paint, 2 spray bottles, and a bottle of baby shampoo on the wall ledge inside the bathroom stall. 3’s: *The flooring was bubbling up behind the toilet in the Northeast corner of the girls bathroom and in the Southeast corner of the boys bathroom. Infant: *There was a thick green buildup around the diapering sink faucet. 2B: *The left bathroom had a thick brown/orange buildup at the base of toilet. *There was a black mold substance inside the rim of the toilet. Previously cited: 4/15/2019”

AAC R9-5-512.F. F. A licensee shall ensure that:1. Each toilet room in a facility contains, within easy reach of enrolled children: a. Mounted toilet tissue; and b. Except as provided in subsection (G): i. A sink with running water; ii. Soap contained in a dispenser; and iii. Disposable, single-use paper towels in a mounted dispenser, or a mechanical air hand dryer; 2. Staff members wash their hands with soap and running water after toileting; 3. An enrolled child’s hands are washed with soap and running water after toileting; 4. Except for a cup or receptacle used only for water, food waste is stored in a covered container and the container is clean and lined with a plastic bag; 5. Food waste and other refuse is removed from the facility building at least once every 24 hours or more often as necessary to maintain a clean condition and avoid odors; 6. A staff member or an enrolled child does not draw water for human consumption from a toilet room handwashing sink; 7. Toys, materials, and equipment are maintained in a clean condition; 8. Plumbing fixtures are maintained in a clean and working condition; and 9. Chipped or cracked sinks and toilets are replaced or repaired.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and the COS' observations, In the Pre-K classroom, *The paper towel dispenser at the handwashing sink was inoperable. Staff #6 stated “Yeah, they keep getting stuck”. 2A classroom: *There was pitcher of water on a small square table, in front of bathroom stall door. *There were 6 children’s water bottles sitting on the bathroom stall door ledge. Toddler B classroom: *There is a 2 inch gap between the diapering sink and wall. On the east Playground: *There were 3 balls with a thick black build up of debris and 2 deflated balls in the cart on the Northwest wall. *The red plastic riding car with a face, had a thick build up of gray substance. *The climbing structure had a black tar-like build up at the slide entrance, on the slide, the bridge gate, and the top of the viewing circle. There were smudges and grimy film on the window of the viewing circle. *On the West wall, there was a thick layer of dirt buildup and black smudges on the window sill and white door to the classroom by the gray garbage can. Previously cited: 5/15/2020”

AAC R9-5-516.B.3. B. If prescription or nonprescription medications are administered, a licensee shall ensure that:3. A facility director, or a staff member designated in writing by the facility director, does not administer a medication to an enrolled child unless the facility receives written authorization signed by the enrolled child’s parent or health care provider that includes the: a. Name of the enrolled child; b. Type of the medication; c. Prescription number, if any; d. Instructions for administration specifying the: i. Dosage and route of administration; ii. If indicated, starting and ending dates of the dosage period; and iii. Times and frequency of administration; e. Reason for the medication; and f. Date of authorization; and

“Findings: Based on the CO’s and the COS' observations, the medications for child #1 lacked documentation of the starting and end dates of the dosage period on the written authorization form.”

AAC R9-5-516.I. I. Except as specified in A.R.S. § 36-2229(B) through (D), a licensee shall ensure that a facility does not stock a supply of medications for administration to enrolled children, including:1. Any prescription medication; or 2. A nonprescription medication such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or cough syrup.

“Findings: Based on the CO’s and the COS' observations, the first aid kit contained stock medications (Walgreens First Aid antiseptic spray with Lidocaine).”

AAC R9-5-603.C. C. Except as provided in subsection (D), a licensee shall ensure that an outdoor activity area:1. Is enclosed by a fence: a. A minimum of 4 feet high; b. Secured to the ground; and c. With either vertical or horizontal open spaces on the fence or gate that do not exceed 4.0 inches; 2. Is maintained free from hazards, such as exposed concrete footings and broken toys; and 3. Has gates that are kept closed while an enrolled child is in the outdoor activity area

“Findings: Based on the CO’s and the COS' observations, the following hazards were found: Center Playground: *There was a torn cardboard box with dismantled equipment sitting on the walkway outside of the school age classroom. *There was a cot leaning on the wall, behind the large cardboard box, outside the school age classroom. *The screens on the window of the 3's classroom, were loose from supports and falling off the window pane. The aluminum frames were bent and exposing sharp pointed edges. *There was a 6x4x1 hole in the surfacing by the loop bar play structure. *The drinking fountain had a heavy buildup of dirt and debris. On the ground under the sink, there was dripping water and a large pool of slimy, green mold. *At the base of the black chain link fence connecting the East playground, was protruding outwards and separating from the pole. *The West fencing had flaking black paint along the base. *There was bird feces along the sidewalks of the playground. *There was cracking surface on the base of the steps of the climber. Toddler /East playground: *There was a cot leaning against the West wall. *On the root of the plastic tree structure, there were 2 broken plastic screws with sharp edges. *On the root of the plastic tree structure there was a missing component leaving a 1/2 inch hole. *On the red plastic riding car with a face, the front right wheel was bent inward, causing the car to be unstable and not move properly. *The fencing had flaking black paint along the base.”

AAC R9-5-605.B.1. B. A licensee shall ensure that:1. All designated exits, corridors, and passageways that provide escape from the building are unobstructed and unlocked during hours of operation;

“Findings: Based on the CO’s and the COS' observations, in the Infant B classroom, one of the emergency exits was blocked by an adult rocking chair, wooden toy baby crib, and a wooden shelf. In the 3’s classroom, one of the emergency exits was blocked by a black plastic cart.”

AAC R9-5-309.C. C. A licensee shall maintain on facility premises: 1. A current fire inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the fire inspection report; and 2. If there are gas pipes that run from a gas meter to an appliance or location on the facility premises, a current gas inspection report including documentation of any repairs or corrections required by the gas inspection report.

“Findings: Based on the facility documentation and CO's observation, the Licensee lacked documentation of a current violation-free fire inspection (expired 3/15/24).”

AAC R9-5-303.B. B. A licensee shall ensure that the licensed capacity of each indoor activity area or room is posted in that activity area or room.

“Findings: Based on the facility documentation, the CO's and COS' observations, the 2-B's classroom lacked a posted capacity.”

AAC R9-5-301.F. F. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member submits, on or before the starting date of employment or volunteer services, one of the following as evidence of freedom from infectious active tuberculosis: 1. Documentation of a negative Mantoux skin test or other tuberculosis screening test recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, administered within 12 months before the starting date of employment or volunteer service, that includes the date and the type of tuberculosis screening test; or 2. If the staff member has had a positive Mantoux skin test or other tuberculosis screening test, a written statement that the staff member is free from infectious active tuberculosis that is signed and dated by a health care provider within six months before the starting date of employment or volunteer service.

“Findings: Based on the facility documentation and the COS' review of 6 staff files, Staff #2 (DOE: 5/30/2022) and Staff #3 (DOE: 3/27/2024) lacked documentation of a Mantoux test read negative before the starting date of employment. Previously cited: 4/14/2022, 4/14/2023”

AAC R9-5-301.B. B. A licensee shall ensure that a facility director: 1. Designates, in writing, an individual who meets the requirements of R9-5-401(2) to act on behalf of the facility director when the facility director is not present in the facility; 2. Supervises or assigns a teacher-caregiver to supervise each staff member who does not meet the qualifications of R9-5-401(3); 3. Prepares a dated attendance record for each day and ensures that each staff member documents on the attendance record the time of each arrival and departure of the staff member; and 4. Maintains on the facility premises, the dated attendance record required in subsection (B)(3) for 12 months after the date on the attendance record.

“Findings: Based on facility documentation and the COS' observation of 6 staff files, Staff #5 worked in the capacity of a teacher-caregiver in the 2A's classroom at the the time of inspection, Staff #5 was not qualified as a teacher-caregiver and was not supervised by a qualified staff member.”

AAC R9-5-203.G. G. If required by A.R.S. § 8-804, before an individual’s starting date of employment or volunteer service, a licensee shall comply with the submission requirements in A.R.S. § 8-804(C) for the individual.

“Findings: Based on the facility documentation and COS' review of 6 staff files, the staff file for Staff #1 (DOE: 7/27/20) and Staff #2 (DOE: 5/30/22) lacked documentation of Direct Service Central Registry submission requirements..”

AAC R9-5-512.C. C. A licensee shall ensure that floor coverings are:1. Clean; and 2. Free from: a. Dampness, b. Odors, and c. Hazards.

“Findings: Based on the CO's and COS' observations, the following facility floors were not found in a clean condition: Infant classroom: *The floor under the diaper changing area had a large build up of dirt, black chunky substance, and black smudges. 2A Classroom: *The floor in front of the bathroom stalls and by the handwashing sink had a build up of black debris. Pre-K Classroom: *There was debris build up on the edging of floor and on the baseboards through out the classroom. *At the exit door, the was debris build on the floor and floor stripping. Toddler B Classroom: *The floor throughout the classroom had a buildup of black smudges and debris. *On the floor next to the table in the middle of the room, there was dried fruit (orange and strawberries) stuck to floor. 2B Classroom: *The floor by the changing table and under the sink stools, had a build up of dirt and debris. *The floor and baseboards throughout the classroom had a build up of dirt. *There was dried food and cereal on the area rugs along the wall under the windows.”

AAC R9-5-501.C.1. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member: 1. Supervises each enrolled child at all times;

“Per allegation Findings include: Based on the Compliance Officers' observation and information provided by the staff, it was determined that the staff in the Toddler room did not supervise the children drinking water at all times. The staff stated, "The enrolled children drink water from a bottle labeled with another child's name."”

AAC R9-5-602.A. A. A licensee shall ensure that the facility meets the following square footage requirements for indoor activity areas based on the child care services classifications: 1. At least 35 square feet of indoor activity space for each infant and 1-year-old child; 2. At least 25 square feet of indoor activity space for each child who is not an infant or 1-year-old child; and 3. When 1-year-old children are grouped together with children older than 1-year-old children in the same activity area, at least 35 square feet of indoor activity space for each child.

“Findings include: Based on the Compliance Officer's observation, the information provided by the staff, and the review of the attendance roster and emergency cards, it was determined that room 108 had 18 children present in the room with children ages 1-2 years old. The capacity of the room is 16 when one-year-old enrolled children are present.”

AAC R9-5-404.C.3. C. A licensee shall ensure that: 3. When six or more enrolled children are present in a facility, an infant is not placed for supervision with a child who is not an infant.

“Findings include: Based on the Compliance Officers' observation and review of the attendance roster, it was determined that a one-year-old child was placed for care in the Infant room when there were more than 6 children present on 10/23/2023, between 7:00 a.m. to 8:25 a.m. and then the child was moved to the Toddler room.”

AAC R9-5-501.C.1. C. A licensee shall ensure that a staff member: 1. Supervises each enrolled child at all times;

“Per allegation Findings include: Based on the Compliance Officers' observation, review of the incident report, and information provided by the staff, it was determined that on 10/11/2023, the staff in the Toddler room did not supervise a child at all times. The child walked over to the staff speaking to a parent when they noticed that the child was crying and came to them with a bloody lip. The other staff member in the room was on the carpet with the rest of the kids cleaning up. The staff stated that they did not see how the child got the bloody lip.”