Attachment A - Health and Safety Report.pdf

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Health and Safety Report 
Introduction 
The Office of Head Start requires grantees to conduct a health and safety screening of 
every classroom within the first 45 days of a new five-year grant period, which runs from 
July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2029. The screening results are due to the Office of Head Start 
within 75 days of the start of the program year. 
Purpose 
The screener serves as a vital resource for grantees, guiding them in pinpointing specific 
areas that require improvement while simultaneously strengthening their capacity to 
ensure the health and safety of children in the classroom. This tool emphasizes best 
practices and key requirements drawn from the Head Start Program Performance 
Standards, ensuring a comprehensive approach to child well-being.  
Initially, the report was scheduled for submission to the Office of Head Start by the 75th 
day of the new grant period. However, in light of unexpected challenges, a request was 
made for a 30-day extension, which has been granted. This report, now with an extended 
deadline, will be thoughtfully prepared and submitted no later than November 18, 2024, 
reflecting a commitment to excellence and accountability in early childhood education. 
Observations and Timeline 
The Head Start Birth to Five Program encompasses 142 center-based classrooms 
dedicated to fostering early childhood development. Twenty-five of these are part of the 
Early Head Start initiative, catering to infants and toddlers, while 117 belong to the Head 
Start Preschool program, designed for preschool-age children. 
Unfortunately, seven of these classrooms were unable to open due to challenges related 
to staffing or licensing requirements. As a result, observations were conducted in 135 
classrooms from August through September 2024, providing valuable insights into the 
program's effectiveness. These observations captured the dynamic interactions and 
learning environments that define the Head Start experience. 
ATTACHMENT A

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Competencies of the Screener 
The Health and Safety screener focuses on five components: 1) facilities, 2) equipment 
and materials, 3) policies and procedures, 4) active supervision, and 5) human resources.
 
 
1. Facilities 
The facilities section of the screening tool encompasses 21 carefully crafted 
questions that delve into the physical environment. These questions ensure that 
the settings where young children learn and play are not only safe but also clean 
and nurturing. These questions address critical safety features, such as the 
presence of functional fire extinguishers and smoke detectors strategically placed 
in every classroom.  
Additionally, the screener specifies the ideal amount of space allocated per child, 
both indoors and outdoors, to promote comfortable movement and exploration. 
Staff are tasked with a vital responsibility: to vigilantly safeguard children from 
potential dangers lurking within their environment. This includes monitoring heating 
and cooling units that could pose a burn risk, identifying areas that might lead to 
falls, and eliminating any hazards associated with strangulation, pets, and 
electrical equipment. By meticulously assessing these elements, the facilities 
screening tool aims to create a safe haven where young children can thrive and 
develop to their fullest potential. 
Results 
The learning environments were remarkably clean, safe, and tailored to meet the 
developmental needs of children. Classroom staff diligently perform daily 
inspections to ensure that both the indoor and outdoor spaces are free from 
potential hazards, creating an inviting atmosphere where children can thrive and 
learn. 
During the inspections, it was observed that one of the most common compliance 
issues involved the storage of brooms. In several classrooms, the bristles of the 
brooms were within reach of curious children. To ensure safety, brooms should be 
hung securely on the wall with the bristles facing upward, rendering them out of

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reach. In response to this finding, staff members have been instructed to adjust 
their storage practices accordingly. 
Another frequent issue identified was the presence of loose laminate on 
countertops in handwashing areas, particularly in older school buildings. This not 
only poses a safety risk but may also hinder proper hygiene. The classrooms with 
these countertop issues have been prioritized for refurbishing, and plans are in 
place for their replacement. 
Overall, the facilities demonstrated a commendable proficiency rating of 92 
percent, reflecting the commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning 
environment for children. 
 
2. Equipment and Materials 
This section features five thoughtfully crafted questions aimed at evaluating the 
cleanliness, condition, and age appropriateness of various elements within the 
learning environment. The assessment delves into a range of items, such as the 
sturdy classroom furniture that shapes the learning space, the engaging 
educational materials that stimulate curiosity, and the outdoor play equipment that 
encourages physical activity and social interaction among children. 
The focus especially lies on ensuring that the toys and learning aids are not only 
safe but also tailored to the developmental stages of the children. This means that 
every item should foster growth, both intellectually and physically. Furthermore, 
this section underscores the vital importance of implementing proper storage 
practices for potentially hazardous cleaning supplies and medications. These 
items must be securely stored, entirely out of the children’s reach, to create a safe 
and nurturing learning atmosphere where children can explore, learn, and play with 
confidence. 
Results  
The classroom equipment and materials were thoroughly inspected and found to 
be in excellent working condition, creating an engaging and productive learning 
environment for students. Bright, well-maintained learning areas and interactive 
materials contribute to a space where curiosity can thrive.

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Cleaning supplies are neatly organized and securely stored in child-proof 
containers, ensuring that hazardous materials are safely out of reach and 
promoting the well-being of the children. Additionally, medications are arranged in 
a designated, easily accessible location, demonstrating responsible management 
of health concerns. 
Upon evaluating the outdoor environments, it was observed that compliance 
stands at only 85%. This shortfall is primarily due to weeds sprouting in cracks in 
the concrete, unsanitary bird droppings on walkways and play structures, and 
peeling paint on furniture. While removing the weeds and cleaning the area can be 
accomplished relatively swiftly, restoring the outdoor furniture with a fresh coat of 
paint will require more time and dedicated effort. 
In response to these findings, a comprehensive action list has been assembled, 
detailing specific tasks to address each issue. Follow-up procedures have been 
established to monitor progress closely and ensure that necessary corrections are 
implemented promptly. This proactive approach aims to revitalize outdoor spaces, 
transforming them into safe, inviting, and vibrant areas where children can explore 
and thrive. 
 
3. Policies and Procedures 
The policies and procedures section comprises 13 detailed questions that delve 
into the essential rules, guidelines, and standard practices that Head Start 
programs must implement to safeguard the health and safety of the children 
enrolled. This section serves as a critical assessment tool, evaluating whether 
programs have established clear and comprehensive procedures that comply with 
the intricate health and safety requirements dictated by federal, state, and local 
regulations. 
For instance, among the items outlined in this section are robust sign-in and sign-
out systems designed to ensure that children are only released to authorized 
individuals, thereby enhancing security and peace of mind. Furthermore, it 
includes procedures to control and prevent the spread of infectious diseases, 
ensuring a healthy environment for all children. Emergency preparedness plans

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are also emphasized, equipping programs to respond effectively and swiftly in 
crises. Lastly, rigorous systems are in place to uphold the confidentiality of 
children’s and families' personally identifiable information, fostering a trustful 
atmosphere where privacy is respected and protected. 
Results  
Education Service Providers were found to have all of the appropriate policies and 
procedures in place, aligning with the Head Start Program Performance Standards 
and Arizona Child Care Bureau of Licensing.  However, the few non-compliant 
findings in this section were parents not using their full names to sign children in 
and out of class, updates to children’s emergency cards, and parent handbooks 
that need more information regarding the prevention of contiguous diseases.   
The classrooms requiring correction have been listed, and follow-up will be 
conducted to ensure timely compliance. 
 
4. Active Supervision 
The active supervision section is composed of six thoughtfully crafted questions 
that delve into various strategies and practices intended to safeguard the well-
being of children enrolled in a Head Start program. This section seeks to evaluate 
the effectiveness of staff in actively monitoring and engaging with children, 
ensuring that safety is prioritized and accidents are avoided. 
The questions explore several critical areas. First, they address the importance of 
maintaining appropriate staff-to-child ratios, which play a vital role in ensuring that 
each child receives adequate attention. Additionally, they examine the strategic 
positioning of staff, ensuring that children remain both visible and audible at all 
times, thus fostering security. 
Engagement is another key focus, as staff are encouraged to interact meaningfully 
with children, promoting a nurturing atmosphere. Continuous scanning and 
monitoring of the learning environment is also emphasized, ensuring that any 
potential hazards are swiftly identified and addressed. Moreover, the section 
underscores the importance of maintaining safety during transitions, such as

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moving from one activity to another, and highlights the necessity of a prompt and 
effective response to emergencies. 
By implementing these comprehensive strategies, the program cultivates a safe 
and responsive environment. This proactive approach minimizes risks and ensures 
that children feel protected and secure at all times, allowing them to thrive in their 
learning experiences. 
Results 
Staff are diligently applying a range of active supervision strategies and 
techniques, creating a nurturing environment that prioritizes the safety and well-
being of the children in their care. They adhere to clearly posted procedures for 
positioning, ensuring that each child is closely monitored in both indoor and 
outdoor settings. As they guide the children from one area to another, staff 
meticulously count each child, guaranteeing that none are left unaccompanied or 
unsupervised—a crucial measure in maintaining a secure atmosphere. 
The children themselves display an awareness of safety, following classroom 
rules, and engaging in play with a sense of responsibility for their own wellbeing. 
Their behavior reflects a learned understanding of safe practices, contributing to a 
positive and secure learning environment. 
This section received an impressive overall proficiency rating of 95 percent, 
highlighting the effectiveness of the strategies employed. However, a couple of 
non-compliant areas were noted. One concern involved the redundant system of 
audible alerts on classroom doors, designed to notify staff when someone enters 
or exits. While this system plays an essential role in enhancing safety, some 
classrooms had disconnected alerts due to the disruptive nature of the sounds.  
Another area needing attention was the staff positioning maps; several of these 
vital documents required updates to accurately reflect changes such as the 
number of staff present, furniture arrangements, or shifts in location within the 
classroom. The Head Start directors for these specific classrooms have been 
notified to ensure the reconnection of the alert systems and the timely updating of 
the positioning maps. To maintain accountability, follow-up monitoring will be

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conducted to verify that these systems are operational and that the maps have 
been thoroughly revised. 
 
5. Human Resources 
The human resources section of the screener comprises seven questions 
designed to ensure that the program cultivates a safe and nurturing environment 
for children. This section delves into the multifaceted processes involved in 
recruiting, training, and effectively managing personnel, while also assessing 
adherence to relevant regulations and best practices. 
Included are specific questions aimed at verifying that every staff member 
possesses the proper qualifications for their role, along with assurance that 
exhaustive background checks are conducted prior to hiring. Ongoing professional 
development opportunities are essential for staff to remain informed about the 
latest educational trends and methodologies. Additionally, it is crucial that all 
mandatory training activities be completed on an annual basis. This vital training 
encompasses a range of important topics, including the mandated reporting of 
child abuse, proper hygiene practices within the classroom setting, as well as 
essential first aid and CPR techniques. Each of these elements plays a significant 
role in fostering a secure atmosphere where children can thrive.   
This section emphasizes the Standards of Conduct, which serve as essential 
guidelines for fostering respectful and positive interactions with children. These 
standards are particularly important for individuals who frequently engage with 
Head Start children, ensuring that every interaction is safe, nurturing, and 
supportive. By adhering to these principles, caregivers, and educators can create 
an environment that promotes healthy development and enriches the learning 
experience for young children.  
Results 
A thorough examination of the staff files revealed a remarkable level of 
professionalism among the Education Service Provider's staff. Each member is not 
only highly qualified for their respective roles but also possesses the necessary 
background screening completed before their position. This ensures that the

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children in their care are surrounded by individuals who are both capable and 
trustworthy. 
Additionally, the staff is committed to maintaining a safe environment; they are well-
versed in mandatory training and certifications designed to promote the well-being 
of the children. Their participation in ongoing professional development courses 
demonstrates an eagerness to stay abreast of the latest educational trends and 
best practices.  
Every staff member has actively participated in the Standards of Conduct training 
and has signed documents affirming their understanding of the established 
guidelines and the serious implications of any violations. Overall, this section 
stands out with an impressive proficiency rating of 98 percent, reflecting a strong 
commitment to excellence within the organization. 
 
Action Plan 
The Quality Assurance Monitoring team has documented all items identified as 
non-compliant. The monitoring and follow-up efforts have already begun and will 
persist until every outstanding issue is thoroughly addressed and meets the 
requirements of the Head Start Program Performance Standards. The Head Start 
Birth to Five Program is committed to ensuring that each item is resolved to the 
highest standard, fostering a compliant and supportive environment for children.