The Merit School Learning Center #21
4290 Prince William Parkway
Woodbridge, VA 22192
(703) 680-3600
Current Inspector: Donna Liberman (540) 359-5244
Inspection Date: May 4, 2023
Complaint Related: No
- Areas Reviewed:
-
8VAC20-780 Staffing and Supervision
8VAC20-780 Programs
- Comments:
-
An unannounced inspection to investigate a self-reported incident regarding behavioral guidance was conducted with the director beginning at 11:30 a.m. and ending at 12:35 p.m. Interviews were conducted. Classroom observation was conducted. Documentation was
reviewed.
Information gathered during the inspection determined non-compliance with applicable standards or law and a violation was documented on the violation notice issued to the program.
If you have questions regarding this inspection, contact Stephanie Reed at Stephanie.Reed@doe.virginia.gov
- Violations:
-
Standard #: 8VAC20-780-400-A Description: Based on staff interviews and review of documentation, it was determined that staff did not always interact with children in a manner that promoted the child?s physical, emotional, and social well-being. Evidence: In the preschool class, Staff #2 said in a loud voice tone "I?ve had enough" and took Child #1, age 2 years old, by the ears and moved them back and forth with her hands while saying "we need to use our listening ears". Further documentation and interviews revealed that Child #1 had some previously diagnosed hearing loss that contributed to Child #1's ability to hear. Plan of Correction: The school self-reported this incident to our licensing representative to continuously partner with the outside agencies and offer transparency in what is reported at the center. This incident was dealt with immediately and taken very seriously by the staff as the safety of the children in our care is of upmost important to us.
Upon witnessing the interaction of the teacher and child in the classroom, another staff member reported what she had witnessed, and the director reached out to the outside agencies for reporting purposes. The teacher was placed on administrative leave and immediately left the building; they were subsequently terminated during the investigation process.
Disclaimer:
A compliance history is in no way a rating for a facility.
The online compliance history includes only information after July 1, 2003. In addition, the online compliance history includes information regarding adverse actions that may be the subject of a pending appeal. An adverse action is not final until a provider has exhausted or waived all due process rights. For compliance history prior to July 1, 2003, or information regarding the status of pending adverse actions, please contact the Licensing Inspector listed in the facility's information. The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) is not responsible for any errors in or omissions from the compliance history information.
