3.20.120 Licensing Investigations in Residential Private Schools

Applies to:  This policy applies to Licensing Division (LD) employees. 

Chapter Number & Title:  3.20. Foster Care, Group Care Facilities (GCF), and Child Placing Agencies (CPA) 

Policy Number & Title: 3.20.120 Licensing Investigations in Residential Private Schools

Effective Date:  May 1, 2026

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance when conducting licensing investigations to determine if a violation occurred in Residential Private Schools (RPS).   

Authority

Chapter 74.15 RCW  Care of Children, Expectant Mothers, Persons with Developmental Disabilities
Chapter 110-146 WAC  Licensing Requirements for Residential Private Schools

Policy

1. LD workers must complete the following when complaints are received in RPSs:
   1. Conduct licensing investigations to determine if a violation of chapter 110-146 WAC has occurred.
   2. Immediately address any violations identified during the investigation that threatens the health, safety, and well-being of residential students residing in the RPSs living accommodations. 
   3. Determine findings within 60 calendar days of the date of the complaint and notify the RPS of the results in writing as either a: 
      1. Valid finding, when based on the facts obtained during the investigation, there is reasonable cause to believe a licensing violation occurred. 
      2. Not valid finding, when based on the facts obtained during the investigation, when either:
         1. There is reasonable cause to believe a licensing violation did not occur.
         2. It cannot be determined that a licensing violation occurred.
   4. Assist the RPSs in resolving violations by either:
      1. Providing them technical assistance.
      2. Completing a compliance agreement. 
   5. Request an extension if they are unable to complete the investigation within 60 calendar days of the complaint.
   6. Notify the RPS director or designee of the results of the investigation in writing.
2. LD worker supervisors:
   1. May approve requests to extend a licensing investigation beyond 60 calendar days.
   2. Must document the reason for the request in a provider note.

Resources

Licensing Investigations on Residential Private Schools procedures (located on the DCYF policies and rules intranet page, licensing division procedures)

Original Date:  May 1, 2026

Review Date:  May 31, 2030

Approved by:  Ruben Reeves, Assistant Secretary of Licensing Division