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January 15, 2025 Ashley Olson, Authorized Agent Faithful Beginnings at St. Michael Catholic Church 16280 Duluth Avenue SE Prior Lake, MN 55372-2421 License Number: 1062392(Child Care Center) Program Location: 16820 Duluth Avenue SE, Prior Lake, MN 55372-2421
Dear Ashley Olson: On November 12, 2024, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Licensing, received your request for reconsideration of citation 1 in the Correction Order issued to you by the Department of Human Services on October 30, 2024. You did not challenge the remaining citation, and that citation is therefore final and not within the scope of this review. SUMMARY OF CITATION AND RECONSIDERATION DETERMINATION:
Citation 1: Violation: During the licensing visit, the licensor observed that hazardous objects were accessible to children. Specifically, the licensor observed one pair of adult scissors and a roll of packaging tape with a sharp cutting edge on a shelf near the sink. Also, an adult personal bag was stored on the floor near a desk, and the bag contained nicotine pouches. Request for Reconsideration. You indicated in your reconsideration request that the bag was observed in an unattended classroom that was locked and inaccessible to children because the children had lunch and recess. You provided a copy of the program’s policies, which indicate that unattended classrooms are locked, and copies of the preschool break, staff and lunch schedules. Applicable Law. Under Minnesota Statutes, section 245A.66, subdivision 2, paragraph (e) childcare centers must develop a risk reduction plan that identifies generals risks to children served by the child care center, and the plan shall prohibit the accessibility of hazardous items to children. Under Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0140, subpart 17, sharp objects, medicines, plastic bags, and poisonous plants and chemicals, including household supplies, must be stored out of reach of children. Reconsideration Determination. Although the children were temporarily away from the classroom at the time of the licensor’s observation, the children remained in care at the program and the classroom contained multiple hazardous items that would have been accessible to children when they were in the classroom. You provided information about the personal bag that was observed in the classroom, but you did not provide any information about the scissors and sharp cutting edge or indicate that those were not present when children were in the classroom. The applicable rule requires that hazardous objects, including sharp objects, be stored out of reach of children. 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 October 30, 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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