Policy for Removal of Pennsylvania Quality Assurance System (PQAS) Approval

This policy outlines the procedure to be followed in the event of complaints filed against Professional Quality Assurance System (PQAS) Instructors. The aim is to address complaints effectively while maintaining the integrity and quality of PQAS training. Each PQAS Instructor and organization operates autonomously and retains the authority to establish their own policies and procedures. However, they must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Policy and Procedures Manual.

• Upon receipt of a complaint, the Professional Development Coordinator will conduct an initial assessment to determine what if any response is warranted.
• The Professional Development Coordinator shall have the authority to initiate an investigation at their sole discretion. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, additional individuals or a committee may be convened, potentially comprising members from the Pennsylvania Key, the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRC), and collaborating organizations, among others. The involvement of others will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
• Investigations will be completed within three months of initiation unless additional time is needed.
• The instructor or affiliate organization will be informed of the investigation process.

For minor complaints or first offenses, the committee will:

• Investigate the complaint, including gathering relevant information and interviewing involved parties.
• Provide the instructor with an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
• Issue a warning to the instructor, documenting the offense and the warning issued.
• Violations of the Policy and Procedures Manual will result in a warning being issued.

If a second offense occurs, the following steps will be taken:

• A more detailed investigation will be conducted.
• The instructor will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of training privileges.
• Re-training or additional supervision may be required before reinstatement.
• The consequences for a repeat offense may be more severe than for a new offense, depending on the circumstances.

In cases where repeated offenses occur and/or the severity of the offense warrants immediate action, the following steps may be taken:

PQAS acknowledges that certain complaints against its instructors may warrant legal action. In instances where complaints involve criminal activity, falsification of records, or other serious breaches of professional conduct, PQAS reserves the right to pursue legal recourse as deemed necessary.

Furthermore, PQAS is committed to cooperating fully with relevant authorities in the investigation of such complaints and will provide all necessary documentation and assistance to ensure due process is followed.