Gainesville Day Care Program Allows Young Child to Read 'Humiliating' Apology Letter

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daycareinspectionslogoThe Virginia Department of Social Services revealed in a Feb. 11 inspection report that a young student at the Glenkirk Elementary School Age Care Program was instructed by his or her parents to read a letter to students and staff apologizing for an undisclosed incident.

The center's staff described the letter as "humiliating" and they said it mentioned "bed wetting and poor hygiene."

According to Licensing Inspector Stephanie Reed's Feb. 26, 2015 report, the staff failed to intervene and allowed the child to read the statement.

"No staff member intervened to stop or redirect the situation," Reed wrote. "After reading the letter, staff reported that appeared sad and embarrassed."

The report stated that other children in the group consoled the child after the incident.

Reed cited the program with failing "to ensure the care, protection and guidance of children in care."

In response to the violation, the center's administration said they will no longer allow students or parents to address staff or students with public statements or apologies.

"If it begins and we are unaware it is going to happen, staff will intervene immediately to stop it," they said.

Officials at the Virginia Department of Social Services would not acknowledge if the parents of the child were investigated.

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