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July 19, 2023 Jane Elizabeth Adams Barber, Authorized Agent Northfield Head Start 1414 Northstar Drive Zumbrota, MN 55992-1091 License Number: 1004075 (Child Care Center) Program Location: 1651 Jefferson Parkway, Northfield, MN 55057-2760
Dear Jane Elizabeth Adams Barber: On November 3, 2022, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Licensing, received your request for reconsideration of the citation in the Correction Order (Attachment A) issued to you by the Department of Human Services on October 26, 2022. SUMMARY OF CITATION AND RECONSIDERATION DETERMINATION:
Citation 1: Violation: Food allergy information was not readily available to staff where food is prepared. Request for Reconsideration. You indicated in your reconsideration request that the program contracted with a caterer for all meals and that food was not prepared at the program. You also indicated that all food allergies were emailed to the caterer and discussed with the caterer before preparing or serving food to any child with a known allergy. You indicated the email was shown to the licensor. Also, you indicate the caterer is responsible for ensuring the safety of the food from preparation to service. Applicable Law. Under Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.41, subdivision 1, paragraph (d), a child’s allergy information must be available at all times including on site, when on field trips, or during transportation. A child’s food allergy information must be readily available to a staff person in the area where the food is prepared and served to the child. Reconsideration Determination. During the licensing visit, the licensor requested that a staff person bring her to the location where food was prepared, and the staff person brought the licensor to the kitchen. The staff person then made copies of food allergy information, posted it in the kitchen and informed the licensor during the exit interview. Because at least some part of the food preparation occurs onsite at the facility, the facility was required to make food allergy information available to a staff person in the area where food is prepared and served. As such, there is sufficient evidence to support the citation, and it is affirmed. Disposition: The Commissioner has reviewed the request for reconsideration and all the information submitted in response to the correction order. The Commissioner finds there is sufficient evidence to support the citation and it is affirmed. This is a final agency decision. The Commissioner appreciates your response and encourages you to continue to work cooperatively with your licensor to ensure the safety and well-being of the children you serve. Sincerely,
Frances Simon Standing, Attorney Legal Counsel’s Office Office of Inspector General
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