Meadowlark Child Care Center

2024

1. High riskStandard 7.049/18/2024

   7.04(05)(a), 7.04(05)(b), 7.04(05)(c), 7.09(09) — Administration

   Staff observations and yearly evaluations were missing from educator files. Corrective action: We developed new Staff Observation forms which will be kept in a binder with different sections for each staff person. Annual evaluations will be scheduled with each staff person at the beginning of the school year and placed in staff files once completed.. Regulation: documentation that the employee has the qualifications required under 606 CMR 7.09, including, but not limited to, health records, as required by 606 CMR 7.09(11);, copies of licenses, certifications and registrations held, including, but not limited to, motor vehicle operator’s license (if the staff member transports children) and EEC educator qualification;, documentation of orientation, training and professional development, as required by 606 CMR 7.09(15)(d-f), 7.09(16)(c) and 7.09(17)(a), and 7.11(1), 7.09 (18)(d), and 7.09(19)(b),as applicable;, All educators must attend an orientation to early education and care approved by the Department. Cited during: Enhanced Monitoring Visit. Source: MA EEC child care provider record (childcare.mass.gov).

   Corrected 10/1/2024
2. Medium-High riskStandard 7.079/18/2024

   7.07(16)(e) — Physical Facility - Outdoors

   During the visit the pea gravel was measured to be at 8 inches in an area, 9 inches are required throughout the play space where there are fall zones that require depth of impact absorbing material. Corrective action: We are working with a local construction company to redistribute the pea gravel across the playground to ensure 9" surrounding all areas needing fall zone coverage. Additional pea gravel will be added as necessary. They anticipate being able to complete the work by the end of October.. Regulation: Playground Safety. The use zones under and around swings, slides, and climbing structures must be covered with an adequate depth of an impact absorbing material, in accordance with EEC policy. Pea gravel and wood chip nuggets must not be used in areas used by infants and toddlers. Cited during: Enhanced Monitoring Visit. Source: MA EEC child care provider record (childcare.mass.gov).

   Corrected 10/1/2024
3. Medium-High riskStandard 7.079/18/2024

   7.07(07)(d) — Physical Facility - Outdoors

   During the visit the pirate ship structure had a bridge that has posts and ropes for the children to climb to access the top, during the visit the posts were loose and could be a potential hazard to children if they become loose and break while a child is using that ramp. Corrective action: The bolts in the posts on the ramp to the pirate ship have been tightened and "L" brackets have been added for additional stability.. Regulation: The outdoor play area must be free from hazards including but not limited to: a busy street, a parking lot, poisonous plants, water hazards, debris, broken glass, chipping, peeling or flaking paint, dangerous machinery or tools, and weather-related and environmental hazards or small objects that could present a choking hazard to young children. Any such hazard must be removed or fenced by a sturdy, permanently installed barrier which is at least four feet high or otherwise protected or removed, as appropriate. Cited during: Enhanced Monitoring Visit. Source: MA EEC child care provider record (childcare.mass.gov).

   Corrected 10/1/2024