The Kindercare on Burke Lake Rd in Burke, VA?

Question

I heard that one of the teachers left a child (under 2 years old) outside and didn't even realize it! They didn't know until the other class went out for their scheduled playtime... That teacher was fired but why didn't the parent go to the news with this? And shouldn't the director also be responsible since she hired that teacher?

Answer 1

They did the right thing by firing the teacher...they obviously did not follow policy...they SHOULD have done a head count going out and coming in....this could have turned into a much bigger problem....and as for the Director....it's hard to hold someone else responsible...especially if this teacher did a good job in every other area. Tough call.

Answer 2

Even with experience and education, human error can happen. Was there another teacher outside with the next class?  If so, the toddler was within supervision of an adult. If not, the teacher should be given a written unsatisfactory evaluation for that infraction. The rule was not followed and there should be a consequence. If that has never happened before, immediately firing the teacher was harsh.  Especially, since no damage was done. There seems to be a lack of teamwork or supervision at that Kindercare Preschool in Virginia. I don't see the point of disciplining the director or alerting the media about it.  No reason to blow it out of proportion.  In education, we are professionals and we do not judge or blame. We deal with it and move on. That is the first thing students learn in their teaching programs. Kindercare is a private preschool.  The teachers are required to have 12 ECE units, not a CD permit or credential to teach there. There should be more emphasis on procedures and professional development training for staff, in case there is a misunderstanding of expectations of the employees.

Answer 3

The teacher was not only fired but, by law, they had to report it to DFS and an investigation had to follow.  This means that this teacher now has a record for at least 3 years and up to 7.  She can not work in ANY field that will require a background check until her sentence is over.  This can ruin a person's career.  I'm not saying it wasn't deserved, but there is more to her just being fired.

As for alerting the media.  This only drags the other employees and daycare families into the mess.  Their school is under scrutiny and on the news and it totally disrupts their lives for awhile.  That really isn't necessary as the appropriate steps were taken and the parents have the right to file a lawsuit if they want.