Kindercare
2115 Fairfax St, Eau Claire, WI 54701 · Eau Claire County
Program
- Type
- Group center
- Licensed capacity
- 128
- Ages
- 6 weeks – 12 years, 11 months
- Hours
- 05:30 AM-06:00 PM (Jan-Dec)
- Licensee
- April Carter
- Contact
- Spreeman, Megan
- Phone
- 715-832-8099
- YoungStar
- 5 Stars
- Regulated since
- 04/23/1997
- DCF IDs
- Facility 520044 · Provider 0000555710/002
- Official record
- DCF Child Care Finder
Violations by category
Year by year
| Year | Violations | Serious | Main categories |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 53 | 11 | Cleanliness & sanitation (10), Illness & medication (3), Supervision & ratios (12), Discipline & child guidance (1), Safety & premises (6), Food & allergies (1), Staff background & training (11), Records & paperwork (5), Other (4) |
| 2025 | 21 | 4 | Cleanliness & sanitation (1), Illness & medication (2), Supervision & ratios (2), Discipline & child guidance (1), Safety & premises (4), Food & allergies (1), Staff background & training (4), Records & paperwork (2), Other (4) |
| 2024 | 12 | 5 | Supervision & ratios (1), Discipline & child guidance (3), Safety & premises (1), Food & allergies (1), Staff background & training (6) |
Enforcement actions
- Jun 23, 2026 — Forfeiture: $600 ($600)
251.055(2)(c) (Mixed-Age Group - Staff-To-Child Ratio ) on 6/9/2026 : Tt was reported to the department that on June 5, 2026, there was one staff member supervising 24 children in care in the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room during morning drop-off, which would require a 2nd staff member. It was also discovered through a review of attendance records that on June 9, 2026, from 7:33am to 7:59am, there was one staff member supervising a group of children which required two staff members. $300 251.055(2)(e) (Mixed Age Group Of Children Over Age 2 - Group Size ) on 6/9/2026 : On June 9, 2026, maximum group size was exceeded in the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room between 8:04am and 9:15am. The number of children in this classroom required two separate groups. $300
- Jun 23, 2026 — Orders Letter
251.04(2)(b) (Compliance With Rules ) on 6/9/2026 : The Center Director knowingly allowed the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room to exceed maximum staff-to-child ratio during drop-off on June 5, 2026, and again to exceed maximum staff-to-child ratio and maximum group size between 7:33am and 9:15am on June 9, 2026. It was reported that the Center Director stated that it was okay if the classroom was "a little over", in regards to the number of children in care. 251.055(2)(c) (Mixed-Age Group - Staff-To-Child Ratio ) on 6/9/2026 : Tt was reported to the department that on June 5, 2026, there was one staff member supervising 24 children in care in the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room during morning drop-off, which would require a 2nd staff member. It was also discovered through a review of attendance records that on June 9, 2026, from 7:33am to 7:59am, there was one staff member supervising a group of children which required two staff members. 251.055(2)(e) (Mixed Age Group Of Children Over Age 2 - Group Size ) on 6/9/2026 : On June 9, 2026, maximum group size was exceeded in the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room between 8:04am and 9:15am. The number of children in this classroom required two separate groups.
- Mar 10, 2026 — Orders Letter
251.055(1)(b) (Supervision - Teacher Per Group Of Children ) on 2/25/2026 : It was observed during the monitoring visit that there was not a teacher qualified staff supervising groups of children at all times. Rule requires that a child care teacher shall supervise each group of children at all times. 251.055(2)(c) (Mixed-Age Group - Staff-To-Child Ratio ) on 2/25/2026 : When there is a mixed-age group, the staff-to-child ratio shall be adjusted on a prorata basis, according to age. Staff-to Child ratios were not adjusted on a prorata basis in the 3's Room during the monitoring visit. There was one teacher supervising 15 children aged 3-5 years old, with the numerical weight being 1.12. When the numerical weight exceeds 1.04, a second qualified staff person must be used to count in staff-to-child ratio. 251.09(2)(bm) (Infant & Toddler - Sleep Position ) on 2/2/2026 : When Licensing Specialists arrived to the complaint visit, 4 children under the age of 1 year old were discovered sleeping on the floor of the infant classroom. The children remained asleep on the floor until Licensing Specialists requested that the children were moved to appropriate sleep surfaces. Throughout the complaint visit, it was observed that additional children under the age of 1 year old would fall asleep on providers' legs or on the floor, and were not transferred to sleep in an assigned crib unless prompted by the Licensing Specialists.
- Mar 10, 2026 — Forfeiture: $700 ($700)
251.055(1)(b) (Supervision - Teacher Per Group Of Children ) on 2/25/2026 : It was observed during the monitoring visit that there was not a teacher qualified staff supervising groups of children at all times. Rule requires that a child care teacher shall supervise each group of children at all times. $250 251.055(2)(c) (Mixed-Age Group - Staff-To-Child Ratio ) on 2/25/2026 : When there is a mixed-age group, the staff-to-child ratio shall be adjusted on a prorata basis, according to age. Staff-to Child ratios were not adjusted on a prorata basis in the 3's Room during the monitoring visit. There was one teacher supervising 15 children aged 3-5 years old, with the numerical weight being 1.12. When the numerical weight exceeds 1.04, a second qualified staff person must be used to count in staff-to-child ratio. $250 251.09(2)(bm) (Infant & Toddler - Sleep Position ) on 2/2/2026 : When Licensing Specialists arrived to the complaint visit, 4 children under the age of 1 year old were discovered sleeping on the floor of the infant classroom. The children remained asleep on the floor until Licensing Specialists requested that the children were moved to appropriate sleep surfaces. Throughout the complaint visit, it was observed that additional children under the age of 1 year old would fall asleep on providers' legs or on the floor, and were not transferred to sleep in an assigned crib unless prompted by the Licensing Specialists. $200
- Feb 10, 2026 — Orders Letter
251.05(2)(a)2. (Staff Record - Completed Background Check ) on 2/2/2026 : Staff A was providing supervision and care to children and did not have a completed background check on file, nor met the preliminary eligibility requirements for the Wisconsin Fingerprint Based Background Check. Each provider providing supervision and care to children must have a preliminary eligibility on file, at minimum, prior to begin working with children. 251.055(1)(b) (Supervision - Teacher Per Group Of Children ) on 2/2/2026 : It was discovered during the complaint visit and upon reviewing the previous week's attendance records that there was not a Teacher qualified staff supervising groups of children in the 2's room at all times. Rule requires that a Child Care Teacher shall supervise each group of children at all times. 251.055(2)(a) (Group Size - Maximum ) on 2/2/2026 : On the day of the complaint visit, maximum group size was exceeded when 11 infants were in care in the infant room. Rule states that when children are under the age of 18 months, the maximum group size may not exceed 8. 251.055(2)(e) (Mixed Age Group Of Children Over Age 2 - Group Size ) on 2/2/2026 : Upon review of attendance records, and after discussion with the Center Director, it was discovered that maximum group size is often exceeded during the opening and closing hours of the program. A review of attendance records on 2/2/26 indicated that 19 children aged 18 months through 5y. were all in care in the same classroom between 7:18am and 8:50am, which would require at least 2 groups of children, each supervised by a qualified Child Care Teacher.
- Oct 25, 2024 — Forfeiture: $100 ($100)
251.09(3)(a)2m. (Infant & Toddler - Correct Food, Breastmilk, Or Formula ) on 10/10/2024 : On 9/30/24, an infant was fed a bottle of breastmilk, belonging to another child. $100
- Aug 6, 2024 — Warning Letter
- Apr 8, 2024 — Orders Letter
- Apr 8, 2024 — Warning Letter
A warning letter is not an enforcement action under Wisconsin law and carries no appeal rights. Orders and forfeitures are enforcement actions and can be appealed.
Inspection visits
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Aug 28, 2026 Licensing visit · 519 rules checked, 12 not met 1 serious
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Illness & medication
The Child Care Enrollment and Health History forms are required to be on file prior to the child's first day of attendance. Child #1 has been in care since April 2026 and did not have these documents on file.
DCF 251.04(6)(a)1. — Child Record - Enrollment Information
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Illness & medication
Documentation that indicates the child's immunization history is in compliance with s. 252.04, Stats., and ch. DHS 144 was not observed in the file for Child #3.
DCF 251.04(6)(a)6m. — Child Record - Immunization History
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Records & paperwork
Each child under 5 years of age shall have an initial health examination not more than 6 months prior to nor later than 3 months after being admitted to the center. Child #2 and Child #3 have been in care for more than 3 months and did not have a child health report on file.
DCF 251.04(6)(a)8. — Child Record - Physical Examination
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Records & paperwork
Each child under 2 years of age shall have an initial health examination not more than 6 months prior to nor later than 3 months after being admitted to the center, and a follow-up examination at least once every 6 months thereafter. Child #6 did not have documentation of a follow-up exam within the past 6 months.
DCF 251.04(6)(a)8.a. — Child Record - Physical Exam - Under 2
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Staff background & training
The files for Staff A, G, and H did not contain documentation of a physical examination report completed within 12 months before or within 30 days after beginning work with children in care, indicating the person is free from illness detrimental to children, including tuberculosis, and physically able to work with young children.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)3.a. — Staff Record - Physical Examination
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Staff background & training
Contrary to rule, Staff A, C, D, F, and G did not have documentation of the yearly requirement of 15 hours of continuing education in 2025.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)7. — Staff Record - Continuing Education
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Staff background & training
Staff G was missing documentation of having received training within the past two years on child abuse and neglect laws, identification, and reporting.
DCF 251.05(3)(cm) — Child Abuse & Neglect - Biennial Training
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Cleanliness & sanitation
It was observed during the monitoring visit that the outdoor play area was not free of litter as is required by rule. Garbage that was not properly disposed, including food wrappers, napkins, plastic bags, tissues, socks, and other miscellaneous debris, were observed.
DCF 251.06(2)(gm) — Premises - Well Drained, Clean, In Good Repair
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Cleanliness & sanitation
Rule states that bedding shall be maintained and stored in a clean and sanitary manner. It was observed by the licensing specialist that children's cots were stacked and stored without a clean covering for when they are not in use in the 2-Year-Old Room.
DCF 251.07(4)(e) — Naps Or Rest Periods - Bedding Maintenance, Storage, Cleanliness
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Safety & premises Serious
A copy of the driver's annual driving record has not been obtained and placed in the staff file.
DCF 251.08(4)(c)1. — Driver Record - Obtain & Review
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Other
Rule states that admission information for an infant or toddler shall be on file in the room or area to which the child is assigned. Two children were missing an intake form in the room or area in which the child was being cared for on the day of the monitoring visit.
DCF 251.09(1)(b) — Infant & Toddler - Location & Sharing Intake Information
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Other
Intake for Children Under 2 forms for Child #3 and Child #6 were missing documentation of having been updated every three months to reflect changes in the child's development and routines based on discussion with the parent.
DCF 251.09(1)(c) — Infant & Toddler - Documenting Changes In Development
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Illness & medication
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Jun 9, 2026 Licensing visit · 6 rules checked, 6 not met 2 serious
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Supervision & ratios
The Center Director knowingly allowed the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room to exceed maximum staff-to-child ratio during drop-off on June 5, 2026, and again to exceed maximum staff-to-child ratio and maximum group size between 7:33am and 9:15am on June 9, 2026. It was reported that the Center Director stated that it was okay if the classroom was "a little over", in regards to the number of children in care.
DCF 251.04(2)(b) — Compliance With Rules
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Records & paperwork
The center was without running water for a period of approximately 30 minutes between 7:30am and 8:00am on June 5, 2026, and this loss of utility services was not reported to the Department. Any loss of utility services are required to be reported to the Department within 24 hours.
DCF 251.04(3)(b) — Report - Damage To Premises
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Records & paperwork Serious
The daily attendance record was not current and accurate on June 9, 2026 when there were 4 children who were present but not signed in.
DCF 251.04(6)(b) — Current, Accurate Daily Attendance Record
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Staff background & training
There was not a record of hours worked for the Center Director when on June 9, 2026, it was reported that the Center Director was providing care to children in the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room and had not signed in or out on the daily attendance record, indicating that they were present in that classroom.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)6. — Staff Record - Days & Hours Worked
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Supervision & ratios
Tt was reported to the department that on June 5, 2026, there was one staff member supervising 24 children in care in the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room during morning drop-off, which would require a 2nd staff member. It was also discovered through a review of attendance records that on June 9, 2026, from 7:33am to 7:59am, there was one staff member supervising a group of children which required two staff members.
DCF 251.055(2)(c) — Mixed-Age Group - Staff-To-Child Ratio
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Supervision & ratios Serious
On June 9, 2026, maximum group size was exceeded in the Transitional Preschool/Kindergarten Room between 8:04am and 9:15am. The number of children in this classroom required two separate groups.
DCF 251.055(2)(e) — Mixed Age Group Of Children Over Age 2 - Group Size
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Supervision & ratios
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May 27, 2026 Licensing visit · 1 rules checked, 1 not met 1 serious
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Supervision & ratios Serious
It was discovered through a self-report investigation that the assigned classroom teacher in the Preschool Room did not have sight and sound supervision of all children to guide the children's behavior, prevent harm, and ensure safety. On 5/22/2026 a 5-year-old child had touched another 5-year-old child's private area, and a group of four 5-year-old children had three separate conversations regarding touching each other's private areas. A staff member in an adjacent classroom overheard the children and intervened; the assigned classroom teacher was unaware of the incident as it was occurring.
DCF 251.055(1)(a) — Supervision Of Children
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Supervision & ratios Serious
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May 8, 2026 Licensing visit · 1 rules checked, 1 not met 1 serious
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Discipline & child guidance Serious
It was discovered during the course of a complaint investigation that profane language was used in front of children in care on 5/1/2026. It was reported by a current employee that a previous employee said "I don't give a f***" in front of a group of children. It was also discovered during the investigation that another current employee used prohibited language that had the potential to be psychologically or emotionally harmful to children, and used this language in an area of the center where children in care could hear.
DCF 251.07(2)(e)2. — Prohibited Actions - Verbal
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Discipline & child guidance Serious
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Apr 23, 2026 Licensing visit · 2 rules checked, 2 not met
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Cleanliness & sanitation
During the course of a complaint investigation, it was discovered that the center was not implementing their policies when diaper changes were not provided to a 4-year-old child as needed, and the center was not providing frequent daily updates to parents on 4/17/2026.
DCF 251.04(2)(h) — Policies Submitted & Implemented
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Cleanliness & sanitation
It was discovered during the course of a complaint investigation that a 4-year-old child did not have their diaper changed for the entire day on 4/3/2026 and again on 4/17/2026. The Center Director stated that the child does not use the toilet, and that their diaper was most likely used throughout the day(s).
DCF 251.07(6)(i)4. — Wet Or Soiled Clothing & Diapers
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Cleanliness & sanitation
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Feb 25, 2026 Licensing visit · 299 rules checked, 15 not met 2 serious
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Records & paperwork
A group child care center shall comply with all conditions placed on license in accordance with Chapter DCF 251. The center was issued an Order with imposed plan of correction on 2/10/2026 following a complaint visit where substantial violations were discovered and substantiated by the Department. The center has failed to accurately comply with the items specified in the Order and imposed plan of correction. A continued pattern of numerous violations and the center's lack of compliance with the conditions placed on the license in accordance with Chapter DCF 251 is of concern.
DCF 251.04(2)(bm) — Compliance With Conditions
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Illness & medication
Documentation that indicates the child's immunization history is in compliance with s. 252.04, Stats., and ch. DHS 144 was not observed in the files for Child #1 and Child #3.
DCF 251.04(6)(a)6m. — Child Record - Immunization History
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Staff background & training
There was no documentation on file for Staff C or Staff D indicating that they had completed the training requirements for their positions as assistant teachers. Both staff were counted in staff-to-child ratio on the day of the licensing visit.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)4.d. — Staff Record - Educational Qualifications
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Staff background & training
It was observed during the licensing visit that an assistant teacher who has not met the teacher training qualifications was providing sole supervision to two toddlers for a period of 2 hours and 30 minutes. It was also observed that another assistant teacher who does not meet the minimum training qualifications was providing sole supervision to a group of children in the 3's Room on multiple occasions during the visit. Rule states that an assistant child care teacher shall work under the supervision of a child care teacher with a group of children.
DCF 251.05(3)(g)1. — Assistant Child Care Teacher - Supervision
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Supervision & ratios
It was observed during the monitoring visit that there was not a teacher qualified staff supervising groups of children at all times. Rule requires that a child care teacher shall supervise each group of children at all times.
DCF 251.055(1)(b) — Supervision - Teacher Per Group Of Children
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Supervision & ratios Serious
The staff-to-child ratio for children under the age of 18 months is 1:4. Upon arrival to the center, the licensing specialist observed that staff-to-child ratios were not being met in the Infant Room when 7 infants were being cared for by one child care worker. The other staff person who was supposed to be counted in ratio was elsewhere in the center.
DCF 251.055(2)(b) — Staff-To-Child Ratios - Minimum
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Supervision & ratios
When there is a mixed-age group, the staff-to-child ratio shall be adjusted on a prorata basis, according to age. Staff-to Child ratios were not adjusted on a prorata basis in the 3's Room during the monitoring visit. There was one teacher supervising 15 children aged 3-5 years old, with the numerical weight being 1.12. When the numerical weight exceeds 1.04, a second qualified staff person must be used to count in staff-to-child ratio.
DCF 251.055(2)(c) — Mixed-Age Group - Staff-To-Child Ratio
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Safety & premises
The Center Director stated that a fire drill was not practiced during the month of January 2026.
DCF 251.06(3)(b)2. — Emergencies - Practice Written Plans
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Safety & premises
Exits and passageways shall have a minimum clear width of 3 feet and be unobstructed by furniture or other objects. It was observed by the licensing specialist that a large stroller buggy was placed in the back hallway in front of the exit door, obstructing the exit passageway.
DCF 251.06(4)(d) — Exits & Passageways - Unobstructed, Minimum Width
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Cleanliness & sanitation
It was observed during the licensing visit that in the 3's Room, used pull-ups were discarded in an open, unlined recycling bin, and that toys, children's socks, shoes, and personal belongings were scattered throughout the room. Used paper towels, children's personal belongings, and toys were strewn throughout the large motor classroom.
DCF 251.07(3)(i) — Cleanliness Of Furnishings, Toys, Equipment
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Other
Children napping on cots in the 2's Room were not at least 2 feet apart as is required by rule.
DCF 251.07(4)(cm) — Naps Or Rest Periods - Sleeping Surfaces - Children 1 And Older
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Cleanliness & sanitation
Rule states that bedding shall be maintained and stored in a clean and sanitary manner. It was observed by the licensing specialist that children's cots were stacked and stored without a clean covering for when they are not in use, and it was observed that a child jumped on the uncovered cots and sat on top of the stack.
DCF 251.07(4)(e) — Naps Or Rest Periods - Bedding Maintenance, Storage, Cleanliness
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Food & allergies
Rule states that staff shall sit with children during mealtimes. It was observed in both the 2's Room and the 3's Room that staff were conducting other classroom duties during afternoon snack and were not sitting and socializing with the children.
DCF 251.07(5)(b)1. — Mealtime - Staff With Children
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Cleanliness & sanitation
It was observed by the licensing specialist that children's hands were not washed after eating mandarin oranges for snack. Rule requires that children's hands shall be washed with soap and warm running water when soiled.
DCF 251.07(6)(i)1. — Washing Child's Hands & Face
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Safety & premises Serious
Upon arrival, the licensing specialist observed an 11-week-old child asleep in a car seat. The child remained sleeping in the car seat for over 10 minutes after the licensing specialist asked for the child to be transferred to their crib. Each child under one year of age must be placed to sleep on their back in a crib, and must be transferred to a safe sleep surface immediately if they fall asleep elsewhere in the classroom.
DCF 251.09(2)(bm) — Infant & Toddler - Sleep Position
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Records & paperwork
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Feb 2, 2026 Licensing visit · 16 rules checked, 16 not met 4 serious
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Staff background & training Serious
Staff A was providing supervision and care to children and did not have a completed background check on file, nor met the preliminary eligibility requirements for the Wisconsin Fingerprint Based Background Check. Each provider providing supervision and care to children must have a preliminary eligibility on file, at minimum, prior to begin working with children.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)2. — Staff Record - Completed Background Check
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Staff background & training
Staff B has been working at the center for over over 8 months and did not have documentation of a health report on file indicating that the person is free from illnesses detrimental to children, including tuberculosis, and that the person is physically able to work with young children.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)3.a. — Staff Record - Physical Examination
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Staff background & training
Staff A did not have documentation that they have received training on child abuse and neglect reporting requirements within one week of working at the center, as is required by rule.
DCF 251.05(3)(cm) — Child Abuse & Neglect - Biennial Training
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Supervision & ratios
Rule states that a qualified Assistant Child Care Teacher shall work under the supervision of a Child Care Teacher with a group of children. It was observed during the complaint visit, and upon review of the previous week's attendance records, that unqualified Assistant Child Care Teachers were providing sole supervision to children.
DCF 251.05(3)(g)1. — Assistant Child Care Teacher - Supervision
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Staff background & training
Staff hired as Assistant Child Care Teachers did not meet the minimum educational qualifications prior to providing supervision and care to children.
DCF 251.05(3)(g)2. — Assistant Child Care Teacher - Qualifications
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Supervision & ratios
It was discovered during the complaint visit and upon reviewing the previous week's attendance records that there was not a Teacher qualified staff supervising groups of children in the 2's room at all times. Rule requires that a Child Care Teacher shall supervise each group of children at all times.
DCF 251.055(1)(b) — Supervision - Teacher Per Group Of Children
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Supervision & ratios
It was observed during the complaint visit that staff who were required to be counted in Staff-to-Child ratios were preparing meals in the center's kitchen and serving food to all classrooms.
DCF 251.055(2)(L) — Staff-To-Child Ratios - Non-Classroom Duties
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Supervision & ratios Serious
On the day of the complaint visit, maximum group size was exceeded when 11 infants were in care in the infant room. Rule states that when children are under the age of 18 months, the maximum group size may not exceed 8.
DCF 251.055(2)(a) — Group Size - Maximum
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Supervision & ratios Serious
Upon review of attendance records, and after discussion with the Center Director, it was discovered that maximum group size is often exceeded during the opening and closing hours of the program. A review of attendance records on 2/2/26 indicated that 19 children aged 18 months through 5y. were all in care in the same classroom between 7:18am and 8:50am, which would require at least 2 groups of children, each supervised by a qualified Child Care Teacher.
DCF 251.055(2)(e) — Mixed Age Group Of Children Over Age 2 - Group Size
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Cleanliness & sanitation
It was observed during the complaint visit that the center was in need of cleaning and repair. A screw from an unknown source was observed on the floor of the 4's room, crayon was drawn on the walls and floors of the classroom, the bathroom was in need of cleaning, and food remnants and garbage were observed throughout the classroom.
DCF 251.06(2)(gm) — Premises - Well Drained, Clean, In Good Repair
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Cleanliness & sanitation
It was observed during the complaint visit that the center is in need of cleaning. In the 4's room, Licensing Specialists observed used pull-ups in the sink and recycling bin, crayon drawn on the walls and furniture, food remnants and crumbs on the tables that children were using for play activities, and the classroom in general disarray.
DCF 251.07(3)(i) — Cleanliness Of Furnishings, Toys, Equipment
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Safety & premises
There were 11 children under the age of 1 year old in care in the infant room, and only 8 cribs available. Rule states that each child under 1 year of age who sleeps shall be provided with a safe, washable crib or playpen.
DCF 251.07(4)(c) — Naps Or Rest Periods - Sleeping Surfaces - Children Under 1
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Cleanliness & sanitation
It was discovered during the complaint visit that eating surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized after each use, as is required by rule.
DCF 251.07(5)(b)5. — Eating Surfaces - Cleaned, Sanitized
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Other
It was observed that infants and toddlers in care were not cared for by a regularly assigned child care worker in a self-contained room when children were frequently moved back and forth between the Infant Room and Toddler A, resulting in children becoming upset and confused during these transitions.
DCF 251.09(1)(d) — Infant & Toddler - Assignment To Room & Caregiver
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Staff background & training
Staff D has provided care and supervision to children under the age of 2 for 1.5 years and has not received the required training on Infant and Toddler Care, as is required by rule.
DCF 251.09(1)(e) — Infant & Toddler - Provider Training
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Safety & premises Serious
When Licensing Specialists arrived to the complaint visit, 4 children under the age of 1 year old were discovered sleeping on the floor of the infant classroom. The children remained asleep on the floor until Licensing Specialists requested that the children were moved to appropriate sleep surfaces. Throughout the complaint visit, it was observed that additional children under the age of 1 year old would fall asleep on providers' legs or on the floor, and were not transferred to sleep in an assigned crib unless prompted by the Licensing Specialists.
DCF 251.09(2)(bm) — Infant & Toddler - Sleep Position
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Staff background & training Serious
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Jul 29, 2025 Licensing visit · 360 rules checked, 10 not met 2 serious
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Records & paperwork
During the monitoring visit, Licensing Specialists were made aware of a traffic incident that resulted in law enforcement contact that occurred on 5/16/25. The department was not notified of this incident within 24 hours of the occurrence,
DCF 251.04(3)(k)2. — Report - Law Enforcement Contact - Traffic
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Other
The acting director at the center did not have documentation of the required 2 years of experience as a child care teacher, center director, or in another approved setting before assuming the position. This experience is a required component of being qualified as a center director for 51 or more children.
DCF 251.05(3)(e)4.c. — Center Director / Large Center - Entry-Level Experience
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Staff background & training
Meal prep personnel did not complete and document at least 4 hours of training in kitchen sanitation, food handling, and nutrition prior to beginning work in this position.
DCF 251.05(3)(gr)3.a. — Meal Prep Personnel - Training
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Supervision & ratios
During the visit it was observed that a freezing unit had a temperature of 10°F. Each freezing unit shall be maintained at 0°F. or lower.
DCF 251.06(9)(d)1.b. — Food Storage - Refrigeration Units
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Food & allergies
A cold storage facility was not equipped with a clearly visible accurate thermometer.
DCF 251.06(9)(d)1.c. — Food Storage - Cold Storage Thermometers
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Illness & medication
An inspection of a medical log book revealed that it had not been reviewed every 6 months as required by rule.
DCF 251.07(6)(dm)4. — Medical Log - Reviewing Injury Records
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Safety & premises Serious
The annual vehicle inspection report for each of the buses for 2024 could not be provided to the Licensing Specialists at the time of the visit, nor was it found on file to be sent to the department following the visit.
DCF 251.08(5)(b) — Vehicle Inspection Report
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Safety & premises Serious
Rule states the child safety alarm shall be in good working order each time the vehicle is used for transporting children to or from the center. The bus alarm was not in working order on the day of the monitoring visit. Center management stated that the vehicles are inspected annually by the Kindercare Regional Manager, however there was no documentation that the alarm was inspected or in working order following the last inspection.
DCF 251.08(8)(c) — Vehicle Safety Alarm - Working Order
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Other
Rule states that admission information for an infant or toddler shall be on file in the room or area to which the child is assigned. None of the intakes for children were physically located in the room they were in, rather the documents were filed in the office.
DCF 251.09(1)(b) — Infant & Toddler - Location & Sharing Intake Information
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Other
An Intake for Children Under 2 form was missing documentation of having been updated every three months to reflect changes in the child's development and routines based on discussion with the parent. The intake was last updated on 12/26/24, resulting in the update being 4 months overdue.
DCF 251.09(1)(c) — Infant & Toddler - Documenting Changes In Development
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Records & paperwork
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Jun 25, 2025 Licensing visit · 2 rules checked, 2 not met 1 serious
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Records & paperwork
An employee and management at the center failed to thoroughly investigate a child's report of inappropriate child contact on two separate occasions. The incidents were brought to the center's attention by both the child's family member and the child, but management did not investigate further in a timely matter, as requested by the Licensing Department. By not addressing the situation immediately, both staff and management of the program adversely affected the health, safety and welfare of the children under the care of the licensee.
DCF 251.04(2)(m) — Health, Safety & Welfare Of Children
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Discipline & child guidance Serious
An employee at the center had reasonable cause to suspect that a child had been abused and did not contact the county department of social services or human services or a local law enforcement agency, as required by s. 48.981, Stats.
DCF 251.04(8)(a) — Mandated Reporting - Child Abuse & Neglect
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Records & paperwork
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Jun 24, 2025 Licensing visit · 10 rules checked, 2 not met
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Staff background & training
During a record review, it was discovered that the center didn't have staff files for two of their employees.
DCF 251.05(2)(a) — Staff Record - Maintenance & Availability
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Supervision & ratios
Center management acknowledged that for a period of time, one classroom did not have a lead qualified teacher assigned and present to supervise children.
DCF 251.055(1)(b) — Supervision - Teacher Per Group Of Children
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Staff background & training
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Feb 21, 2025 Licensing visit · 1 rules checked, 1 not met 1 serious
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Staff background & training Serious
Fingerprints not completed for the following individuals: Individual 001
DCF 251.05(2)(a)2. — Staff Record - Completed Background Check
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Staff background & training Serious
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Jan 16, 2025 Licensing visit · 173 rules checked, 6 not met
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Staff background & training
The file for Staff A and Staff D did not contain documentation of a physical examination report completed within 12 months before or within 30 days after beginning work with children in care, indicating the person is free from illness detrimental to children, including tuberculosis, and physically able to work with young children.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)3.a. — Staff Record - Physical Examination
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Other
Per rule the minimum inside temperature may not be less than 67 degrees. In the transitional kindergarten room, the temperature was 63 degrees, when measured. In another classroom, the temperature read 63.8 degrees. Two children were observed wearing their coats while playing in the classroom, while two other children were observed to be wrapped in blankets for warmth.
DCF 251.06(1)(d) — Inside Temperature - Minimum
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Cleanliness & sanitation
Per rule the premises shall be free from litter, clean and in good repair. There were observations of cluttered classrooms, dried food/drink substances on tables, walls, chairs, exterior portions of garbage cans, and lower portions of doors. Furniture was tipped over and toys left tossed about in a previously utilized classroom, and crayon markings were observed on the linoleum floor .
DCF 251.06(2)(gm) — Premises - Well Drained, Clean, In Good Repair
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Safety & premises
Rule states there should be daily outdoor activities except during inclement weather. On 01/16/25, the temperature was 32 F at 9:30 am. The "feels like" temperature was 25 F. Per staff, they were not taking children outside because the weather was too cold. Per the NWS Windchill chart and licensing rules, the weather was appropriate for outdoor play.
DCF 251.07(1)(e)4. — Daily Outdoor Activities
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Safety & premises
Rule states indoor furnishings and equipment shall be safe and durable. Four classroom chairs were observed to be in poor, unsafe condition. Each chair had two significantly large cracks on the seat bases, which could cause pinching to a child's legs and bottom.
DCF 251.07(3)(a)2. — Indoor Equipment - Construction, Condition
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Illness & medication
Rule states that blanket authorizations that exceed the length of time specified on the label are prohibited. Two parent authorizations didn't have end dates.
DCF 251.07(6)(f)1.a. — Medication Administration - Parent Authorization
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Staff background & training
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Oct 10, 2024 Licensing visit · 1 rules checked, 1 not met
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Food & allergies
On 9/30/24, an infant was fed a bottle of breastmilk, belonging to another child.
DCF 251.09(3)(a)2m. — Infant & Toddler - Correct Food, Breastmilk, Or Formula
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Food & allergies
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Jul 31, 2024 Licensing visit · 3 rules checked, 3 not met 3 serious
The DCF Finder's main page now lists this visit as "No Violations found". Its own visit report below still cites these rules. DCF's list drops violations after about two years.
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Discipline & child guidance Serious
Center Staff Did Not Make A Report To Child Protective Services Or Law Enforcement After Being Notified That An Employee Had Kicked A Child. All Childcare Employees Are Mandated Reporters Of Suspected Or Known Abuse And/Or Neglect Of A Child.
DCF 251.04(8)(a) — Mandated Reporting - Child Abuse & Neglect
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Discipline & child guidance Serious
On Or Around 7/11/24, A Center Employee Kicked A Three Year Old Child In The Leg, As A Way Of Demonstrating That People Shouldn't Kick And That Kicking Hurts.
DCF 251.07(2)(e)1. — Prohibited Actions - Corporal Punishment
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Discipline & child guidance Serious
An Investigation Revealed There Has Been Excessive Yelling Of Some Staff Towards Children. The Loud Volume And Tone Used By These Teachers Has Caused Fear And/Or Anxiety In Some Children.
DCF 251.07(2)(e)5. — Prohibited Actions - Cruel, Aversive, Frightening, Humiliating Actions
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Discipline & child guidance Serious
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Jul 23, 2024 Licensing visit · 187 rules checked, 1 not met 1 serious
The DCF Finder's main page now lists this visit as "No Violations found". Its own visit report below still cites these rules. DCF's list drops violations after about two years.
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Safety & premises Serious
The Center Did Not Have A Driving Record For Each Of Their Four Drivers Who Transport Children To And From School, And For Field Trips.
DCF 251.08(4)(c)1. — Driver Record - Obtain & Review
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Safety & premises Serious
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May 20, 2024 Licensing visit · 1 rules checked, 1 not met 1 serious
The DCF Finder's main page now lists this visit as "No Violations found". Its own visit report below still cites these rules. DCF's list drops violations after about two years.
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Staff background & training Serious
Fingerprints Not Completed For The Following Individuals: Individual 001
DCF 251.05(2)(a)2. — Staff Record - Completed Background Check
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Staff background & training Serious
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Feb 27, 2024 Licensing visit · 138 rules checked, 6 not met
The DCF Finder's main page now lists this visit as "No Violations found". Its own visit report below still cites these rules. DCF's list drops violations after about two years.
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Staff background & training
The Files For Staff C, E & F Were Missing Staff Record Information And Other Elements As Is Required By Rule.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)1. — Staff Record - Personal Information
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Staff background & training
The Files For Staff C, D & E Did Not Contain Documentation Of A Physical Examination Report On A Form Provided By The Department, Completed Within 12 Months Before Or Within 30 Days After Beginning Work With Children In Care, Indicating The Person Is Free From Illness Detrimental To Children, Including Tuberculosis, And Physically Able To Work With Young Children.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)3.a. — Staff Record - Physical Examination
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Staff background & training
The Files For Staff C, D, E, & F Were Missing Documentation Of Having Received A Complete Orientation Within Their First Week At The Center.
DCF 251.05(2)(a)8. — Staff Record - Orientation
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Staff background & training
The File For Staff B Was Missing Documentation Of Having Obtained A Certificate Of Completion For Infant And Child Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (Cpr) And Automated External Defibrillator (Aed) Use From An Agency Approved By The Department Within 3 Months Of Employment.
DCF 251.05(3)(c) — Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training
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Staff background & training
The Files For Staff D, E & F Were Missing Documentation Of Having Received Training Within The Past Two Years On Child Abuse And Neglect Laws, Identification, And Reporting.
DCF 251.05(3)(cm) — Child Abuse & Neglect - Biennial Training
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Supervision & ratios
During The Course Of A Complaint Investigation It Was Determined The Transitional Kindergarten Room Was Out Of Ratio During The Opening And Closing Hours Several Days During The Month Of February.
DCF 251.055(2)(c) — Mixed-Age Group - Staff-To-Child Ratio
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Staff background & training
Get the full file
DCF publishes about 3 years of monitoring. Older history, complaint files and self-reported incidents require a public records request. Wisconsin's public records law (Wis. Stat. §§ 19.31–19.39) gives anyone the right to ask. You don't have to say why. Electronic copies are generally free.
Email the request Printable letter (fax or mail)
- Send to
- DCF Records Custodian · DCFRecordsRequest@wisconsin.gov · fax (608) 422-7161 · 201 W. Washington Avenue, Madison, WI 53703
- Copy
- DCF Western Regional Licensing Office · DCFPlicBRLWRO@wisconsin.gov · 715-930-1148
Show the letter text
If something is happening now, file a child care complaint with DCF. For suspected abuse, contact your county child protective services or law enforcement.
Source: Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, via the Child Care Finder and the licensed and certified directories. History last read Sep 30, 2026. Violation text is DCF's own wording. The categories are ours, added to help you scan.