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Parker preschool shutting down after state denies renewal for numerous violations, child abuse

Posted at 5:52 PM, Dec 28, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-28 22:16:36-05

PARKER, Colo. — A Merryhill Preschool in Parker will be closing its doors permanently next week after the state denied the school’s license renewal based on several violations and a finding of child abuse, the Colorado Department of Human Services announced Friday.

The Parker preschool, located at 12201 South Parker Road, must close by Jan. 4, according to a statement Merryhill spokesperson Kerry Owens.

“The safety and care of children and compliance with state regulations are our highest priorities; therefore, we were very disappointed and deeply saddened to have received notification, Owens’ statement reads.

Colorado DHS notified the school on Dec. 20 that its license renewal was denied after the school violated a six-month probation period due to consistent violations and a finding of child abuse, according to a DHS statement.

“During the probation, the facility continued to be cited for consistent violations and Douglas County Child Protection made another finding of abuse against a staff member who scrubbed two children's faces with Magic Eraser, causing abrasions/chemical type burns to the two children's faces,” the statement read.

During an inspection of the Parker facility, DHS noticed several violations, including uncovered electrical outlets, staples accessible to toddlers and staff members lacking the required background check paperwork.

Owens said the school is working with families to help them with the transition. The school is offering a tuition discount for those wanting to transfer another Merryhill facility.