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June 11, 2024 Katie Blank Weires, Authorized Agent Primrose School of Minnetonka 17821 Highway 7 Minnetonka, MN 55435 License Number: 1120972 (Child Care Center) Program Location: 17821 Highway 7, Minnetonka, MN 55345-4123
Dear Katie Blank Weires: On May 21, 2024, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Licensing, received your request for reconsideration of citation 1 in the Correction Order (Attachment A) issued to you by the Department of Human Services on May 16, 2024. You did not challenge the remaining citations, and those citations are therefore final and not within the scope of this review. SUMMARY OF CITATIONS AND RECONSIDERATION DETERMINATION:
Citation 1: Violation: The required staff-to-child ratios were not maintained. Specifically, from approximately 11:06 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on May 15, 2024, one staff person was alone in a classroom with 14 preschool aged children. Another staff person was needed to meet ratio requirements. Request for Reconsideration. You submitted a copy of a statute related to ratios for certified license-exempt child care centers. Applicable Law. Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0040, subpart 1 provides minimally acceptable staff-to-child ratios and maximum group sizes within each age category. Reconsideration Determination. Although the children in the pre-K classroom were all five years of age and entering Kindergarten in the upcoming school year, the program is not licensed to provide care for school aged children. As such, the required minimum staff to child ratio for preschoolers in the applicable rule applies, and that rule requires a ratio of 1 staff per 10 preschool aged children. During the licensing visit on May 15, 2024, the licensor observed one teacher qualified staff person working alone with 14 preschool aged children. The program moved a second staff person into the classroom after required ratios were discussed during the visit. 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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