Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) has taken decisive action regarding the Cross Lanes Child Care and Learning Center. As of October 27, 2024, the center has been placed on provisional license status with its capacity reduced to zero due to serious non-compliance with state child care regulations. This measure is intended to safeguard children while an investigation is underway.

Cynthia Persily, Ph.D., Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, stated, "The action today will result in the center not being able to serve any families or children while it’s under investigation. We feel this is essential for the safety of youth." She further emphasized that their primary concern is the protection of children and acknowledged the impact on families seeking alternative arrangements.

Preliminary findings by DoHS's Bureau for Social Services (BSS) and Bureau for Family Assistance (BFA) revealed violations related to both physical and psychological punishment of children, as well as failures in mandatory reporting and supervisory standards. Specific infractions include physical punishment, psychological punishment, failure to report serious occurrences timely, inadequate supervision of staff, and lack of regular staff meetings.

This ongoing investigation may uncover additional violations requiring further corrective actions to ensure child safety at the facility.

DoHS advises parents needing immediate child care assistance to contact Connect Child Care Resource and Referral at 1-888-595-8290 for guidance on available licensed providers. Additionally, any concerns about abuse or neglect should be reported directly to Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect by calling 1-800-352-6513. Direct reporting ensures prompt attention through official channels rather than social media.

Cross Lanes Child Care and Learning Center retains the right to appeal this decision within 30 days by submitting a written request. A hearing officer will be assigned for this process where legal representation can be present alongside necessary documentation.

For information on a child care provider's licensure status, visit dhhr.wv.gov/bfa/ece/pages/providersearch.aspx.