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January 14, 2025 Aaron Nelson, Authorized Agent Stepping Stones Early Learning Center 5645 Garden Drive Woodbury, MN 55129 License Number: 1095855 (Child Care Center) Program Location: 11253 Eagle View Blvd, Woodbury, MN, 55129-5223
Dear Aaron Nelson: On October 11, 2024, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Licensing, received your request for reconsideration of citation 3 in the Correction Order issued to you by the Department of Human Services on September 24, 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 3: Violation: The program did not comply with the reporting requirements for abuse and neglect. Specifically, based on staff interviews, it was determined that staff persons were not aware of the reporting requirements for abuse and neglect. Request for Reconsideration. You indicated in your reconsideration request that staff persons received training and that there could be multiple reasons a staff person would be unable to correctly state the requirements for reporting maltreatment. You submitted training records for multiple staff persons showing completion of training regarding reporting responsibilities under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 260E and Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0130. Applicable Law. Under Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0130, subpart 1, the license holder must comply with the reporting requirements for abuse and neglect specified in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 260E. Reconsideration Determination. Under the applicable rule, the program is responsible for ensuring compliance with reporting requirements for abuse and neglect. You submitted documentation that staff persons completed related training, but the citation was issued because staff were not reporting properly rather than for staff not completing training. The determination was not based on one or two staff interviews but was based on interviews with four staff persons, all of whom were unable to correctly state the requirements for reporting maltreatment. 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. Previously Ordered Corrective Action: In the Correction Order issued on September 24, 2024, you were ordered to correct the violations cited and submit documentation of such action to your licensor. A request for reconsideration does not stay any provisions or requirements of the correction order. Minnesota Statutes, 245A.06, subdivision 2(a). If you have not done so already, please immediately comply with the previously ordered corrective actions for all uncontested and affirmed violations. 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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