Ridge Creek "School" - Serious Safety Issues/ORS Violation

[RobertBruce]

If you don't stop asking me questions concerning employment which has nothing to do with this thread your ass will be banned, believe me. Now answer my question. Here. What day?
   I told Psy.

Asking you a question about your employment at HLA has nothing to do with a thread discussing safety at HLA/RC? Wow you're stupid. I ask because you repeatedly seek to establish that you had/have some sort of insider status at HLA, so I only assumed you must have worked there. You're too old to have been there as a student, and I seriously doubt any woman has ever had consensual sex with you that you didn't first pay for, therefore you probably don't have any children. That being the case the only option left is for you to have once been an employee there. I'm simply curious as to when to see if our respective time there overlapped. If you never worked there then I have no idea why you continue to try and claim insider information that you simply have no way of having.


DJ, Jill, and myself all have a connection HLA. Even Whooter John will once he starts being honest. We're all in a place where we are able to share our perspective of time spent/dealing with HLA. You so far have no such connection and are not in a place where you can comment on anything connected to it.

Perhaps you should move on son.

[RobertBruce]

I don't care where you post it. Just post the day and tell me where to find it.

Are you just lazy or stupid as well? It's been there since yesterday.

http://http://www.fornits.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=31304&start=60

[Dysfunction Junction]

And the beat goes on at RCS...

Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
R 0000 Opening Comments.
The purpose of this visit on September 1, 2010 was to investigate 86273. A subsequent visit was
conducted on September 9, 2010.
R 0801 290-2-5-.08(2) Administration and Organization.
SS=D
Program Description and Implementation. In accordance with these rules and regulations, a licensed child caring
institution shall develop, implement and comply with written policies and procedures that describe the range of
services including room, board
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Bases on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to develop and comply with policies
and procedures as to how services will be provided by the facility;
Findings Include:
(1) Record review on September 1, 2010 of the agency's Medication Administration Policy
indicated that when dispensing medication, the staff member will follow standard protocol in the
distribution of medication:
{ asking the child his/her name
{ the medication box
{ MAR (medication administration record) to identify the prescribed medication and student
photo to make sure the correct student is receiving the correct medication
{ will ask the student to identify the medication she/he is seeking
{ will be placed in a cup and staff will check the child ' s mouth to verify that the medication is
swallowed
{ will sign a signature sheet to record the administration of the medication, and
{ will sign the MAR.
In addition in case of medication errors and/or the administration of the wrong medication or
wrong dosage ingested the Department (Office of Residential Child Care) will be notified.
(2 ) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 08-27-10 for Resident #15
revealed that on 08-27-10, Staff C inadvertently administered the medications of another child to
Page 1 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
Resident #15. In addition review of Incident Report dated 06-05-10 for Resident #5 revealed
Resident #5 was inadvertently given the wrong medication after a group of residents crowded the
dispensary area and staff failed to properly follow medication administration procedure. The
incidents were never reported to the Office of Residential Child Care.
(3) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 3:03 PM with Staff DD, Staff DD
acknowledged that the resident's parents are notified regarding incidents involving the child.
Staff DD further indicated that the agency take medication errors very seriously and
acknowledged that it is considered a serious incident. Staff DD acknowledged that the incidents
were not reported within the 24 hour time frame as required by the Department. Staff DD further
indicated that the agency was unclear if several of the incidents in question were reportable
incident.
R 0833 290-2-5-.08(5)(d)4. Recordkeeping. Personnel Records.
SS=B
[Written personnel records] records shall include the following: ...
4. Documentation of at least two professional, educational, or personal references that attest to the person's
capabilities of performing the duties for which they are employed and to t
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on a review of personnel files and staff interview, the agency failed to document at least
two professional, educational, or personal references that attest to the person's capabilities of
performing the duties for which they are employed and to the person's suitability of working with
or around children in four of ten files reviewed;
Findings Include:
(1) Record review on September 9, 2010 of Staff C, E, and F's file revealed that agency failed to
maintain documentation of at least two references. In addition, review of Staff H's file revealed
Page 2 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
the agency documented only one reference.
(2) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:15 pm with Staff EE, Staff EE indicated
that she/he is responsible for completing and maintaining employee personnel files. Staff EE
monitors the files for compliance when time permits to ensure that files are updated; however
Staff EE indicated that she/he was not fully aware of all requirements in maintaining personnel
files other than what is indicated by the agency wide checklist of the required documents needed
in the personnel files.
(3) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:35 pm with Staff DD, Staff DD indicated
that agency protocol is that staff members are required to provide references within 90 days of
employment.
This tag was previously cited on 12-03-08.
R 0834 290-2-5-.08(5)(d)5. Recordkeeping. Personnel Records.
SS=D
[Written personnel records] records shall include the following: ...
5. Satisfactory preliminary criminal history background check determination and a satisfactory fingerprint records
check determination as required by law for the director and foster par
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on a review of resident files and e-mail correspondence with staff, the facility failed to
document a satisfactory preliminary criminal history background check on adults aged eighteen
or older who reside at the home;
Page 3 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
Findings Include:
(1) Review of the record of eighteen year-old Resident #1 on September 9, 2010 revealed that the
agency failed to obtain a criminal background check.
(2) E-mail correspondence with Staff DD on 09/16/2010 at 8:32 am revealed that there were 23
other residents who lived or had lived at the facility since January 1, 2010. Staff DD
acknowledged that criminal background checks had not been obtained on any of these residents.
R 0838 290-2-5-.08(5)(d)9. Recordkeeping. Personnel Records.
SS=D
[Written personnel records] records shall include the following: ...
9. Documentation of orientation and training, including dates of all such training, as required by Rule .08(6)(d) of
these rules; ...
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on review of personnel files and staff interview, the agency failed to document orientation
and training in eight of ten files reviewed;
Findings Include:
(1) Record review on September 9, 2010 of Staff A, B, C, D, E, F, H, and J's file revealed that there
was no documentation to support that orientation and training had been provided to each staff
member.
(2) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:15 pm with Staff EE, Staff EE indicated
that she/he is responsible for completing and maintaining employee personnel files. Staff EE
monitors the files for compliance when time permits to ensure that files are updated; however
Staff EE indicated that she/he was not fully aware of all requirements in maintaining personnel
files other than what is indicated by the agency wide checklist of the required documents needed
in the personnel files.
Page 4 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
(3) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:35 pm with Staff DD, Staff DD indicated
that initial orientation and training is provided by him/herself regarding the policies and
procedures related to the organization and job however the department heads provided training
specific to the role of the particular staff member. Staff DD indicated that all staff received
orientation and training however the agency was unable to provide documentation of the staff
members' receipt of the training.
R 0840 290-2-5-.08(6) Staffing.
SS=E
Staffing. The institution shall have sufficient numbers of qualified and trained staff as required by these rules to
provide for the needs, care, protection, and supervision of children. All staff and volunteers shall be supervised to
ensure that assigne
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review, resident and staff interviews, the agency failed to provide for the needs,
care, protection, and supervision of the children in care;
Findings Include:
(1) During an interviews conducted on September 1, 2010 from 1:00 pm-3:30 pm with Residents
101, 102, 108, 109, 110, and 112 in which all residents acknowledged that they are aware of
residents engaging in sexually inappropriate behavior. It was reported that the residents would
sneak off in designated areas unbeknownst to staff.
(2) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 06-06-10 for Resident #11
revealed Resident #11 along with 6 other females disclosed to staff an incident involving sexual
activity between Resident #11 and an older male resident. It was documented that Resident #11
appeared upset and stated that what occurred between herself (R11) and the male resident was
Page 5 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
an unwelcome encounter. Furthermore, it was documented that Resident #11 initially lied about
the incident because she/he did not want the peer to get in trouble. In addition, review of Incident
Report dated 04-25-10 for Resident #11 revealed that Resident #11 was found around 8:15 am
asleep in the bed with Resident #15. Furthermore, review of Incident Report dated 05-08-10 for
Resident #15 revealed that a room search was conducted in which several notes were found
referencing several sexual encounters with male students.
(3) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 12:43 pm with Staff AA, Staff AA indicated
that to his/her knowledge there has been no current sexual activity reported and/or observed
amongst the students however Staff AA acknowledged that previously there was an issue in
which Resident #11 made allegations against a male student. After a week of the incident
Resident #11. Resident #11 child reported the story in which the story changed when she spoke
with another counselor and her mother. In regards to the incidents with Resident #15 it was
found that Resident #15 had engaged in sexual acting out on 3 separate occasions in some sort
of consensual encounter with another male student in which Resident #15 reported that she/he
engaged in sexual inappropriate activities with the male peer in which the incident incident
occurred in the music room at student activity center and the other two incidents occurred in the
movie room in student activity center and the bathroom in academic building. The agency
conducted an investigation which revealed that the incidents occurred and all parents of the
residents were notified.
(4) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 5:00 pm with Staff DD, Staff DD indicated
that the clinical director followed up with the counselor regarding the allegations in which
Resident #11 re-canted the allegation. As a result of the incident she/he re-wrote the abuse
reporting policy and procedure effective April 2010 which addressed the reporting of allegations
as a means to address reporting of incidents and it addressed specific procedures in which the
counselors to follow in reporting of incidents.
This rule was previously cited on 07-21-10.
Page 6 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
R 0852 290-2-5-.08(6)(d)1. Staffing.
SS=E
[Staff] orientation shall include instruction in:
(i) The institution's purpose and description of services and its policies and procedures;
(ii) The employee's assigned duties and responsibilities;
(iii) Grievance policies and procedures;
(iv) Child
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on review of personnel files and staff interview, the agency failed to document all required
components of orientation training needed prior to the staff being able to work with the residents
in eight of ten files reviewed;
Findings Include:
(1) Record review on September 9, 2010 of Staff A, B, C, D, E, F, H, and J's file revealed that there
was no documentation to support that orientation and training had been provided to each staff
member.
(2) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:15 pm with Staff EE, Staff EE indicated
that she/he is responsible for completing and maintaining employee personnel files. Staff EE
monitors the files for compliance when time permits to ensure that files are updated; however
Staff EE indicated that she/he was not fully aware of all requirements in maintaining personnel
files other than what is indicated by the agency wide checklist of the required documents needed
in the personnel files.
(3) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:35 pm with Staff DD, Staff DD indicated
that initial orientation and training is provided by him/herself regarding the policies and
procedures related to the organization and job however the department heads provided training
specific to the role of the particular staff member. Staff DD indicated that all staff received
orientation and training however the agency was unable to provide documentation of the staff
Page 7 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
members' receipt of the training.
This tag was previously cited on 12-03-08.
R 0861 290-2-5-.08(7) Staffing.
SS=D
Reporting. Detailed written summary reports shall be made to the Department of Human Resources, Office of
Regulatory Services, Residential Child Care Unit via email or fax on the required incident intake information form
(IIIF) within 24 hours.
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to submit a detailed written
summary report to the Department of Human Services, Office of Residential Child Care (ORCC)
via e-mail or fax on the required incident intake information form (IIIF) within 24 hours in ten of
thirty-five incidents reviewed;
Findings Include:
(1) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 08-04-10 for Resident #16
revealed that on 08-04-10, Resident #16 was taken to the emergency room for a nondisplaced
fracture of the Right 5th metacarpal head (right hand).
(2) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 08-27-10 for Resident #15
revealed that on 08-27-10, Staff C inadvertently administered to Resident #15 the medication
Citolopram that was intended for another child.
Page 8 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
(3) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 06-06-10 for Resident #11
revealed Resident #11 along with 6 other females disclosed to staff an incident involving sexual
activity between Resident #11 and an older male resident. It was documented that Resident #11
appeared upset and stated that what occurred between herself (R11) and the male resident was
an unwelcome encounter. Furthermore, it was documented that Resident #11 initially lied about
the incident because she/he did not want the peer to get in trouble.
(4) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 12-04-09 for Resident #17
revealed Resident #17 was involved in an altercation with a peer while staff was in process of
restraining another peer. It was documented that staff intervened after hearing Resident #17
screaming and proceeded to restrain the peer. Resident #17 ran out the dorm and the police was
notified of the elopement. Later Resident #17 was found by the pond in which she/he threatened
to throw his/herself in the pond in which Resident #17 eventually did and staff retrieved Resident
#17 out the water. The ambulance was called to assess Resident #17 for hypothermia. In addition,
review of Incident Report dated 05-08-10 for Resident #17 revealed that a room search was
conducted in which several notes were found referencing sexual contact with male peers at the
facility.
(5) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 06-05-10 for Resident #5
revealed Resident #5 was inadvertently given the wrong medication after a group of residents
crowded the dispensary area and staff failed to properly follow medication administration
procedure. In addition, review of Incident Report dated 05-13-10 for Resident #5 revealed
Resident #5 was treated and cleared by Lumpkin Co Paramedics for seizure disorder in which
resident lost consciousness for about 4 minutes.
(6) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 07-20-10 for Resident #2
revealed that a missing person was filed with Lumpkin Co Police for Resident #2 after a room
check was conducted around 9:20 pm in which Resident #2 was observed missing from the
facility. In addition, review of Incident Report dated 07-15-10 revealed Resident #2 gave his/her
psychotropic medication, Seroquel, to another peer. Furthermore, review of Incident Report
dated 07-02-10 revealed Resident #2 tested positive for THC which she/he brought on campus on
06-30-10.
(7) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 05-13-10 for Resident #3
revealed Resident #3 was transported to the hospital for possible concussion after Resident #3
reported hitting his/her head on a rock resulting in nausea and dizziness. All of the incidents
documented were not reported to the Department (ORCC) as of September 1, 2010.
Page 9 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
( During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 3:03 PM with Staff DD, Staff DD
acknowledged that the resident's parents are notified regarding incidents involving the child.
Staff DD further indicated that the agency take medication errors very seriously and
acknowledged that it is considered a serious incident. Staff DD acknowledged that the incidents
were not reported within the 24 hour time frame as required by the Department. Staff DD further
indicated that the agency was unclear if several of the incidents in question were reportable
incident.
R 0862 290-2-5-.08(7)(a-g) Staffing.
SS=D
This [detailed written summary] report shall be made regarding serious occurrences involving children in care,
including but not limited to:
(a) Accidents or injuries requiring medical treatment and/or hospitalization;
(b) Death;
(c) Suicide attempts;
(
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to report incidents regarding
serious occurrences involving children in care in ten of thirty-five incidents reviewed;
Findings Include:
(1) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 08-04-10 for Resident #16
revealed that on 08-04-10, Resident #16 was taken to the emergency room for a nondisplaced
fracture of the Right 5th metacarpal head (right hand).
(2) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 08-27-10 for Resident #15
Page 10 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
revealed that on 08-27-10, Staff C inadvertently administered to Resident #15 the medication
Citolopram that was intended for another child.
(3) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 06-06-10 for Resident #11
revealed Resident #11 along with 6 other females disclosed to staff an incident involving sexual
activity between Resident #11 and an older male resident. It was documented that Resident #11
appeared upset and stated that what occurred between herself (R11) and the male resident was
an unwelcome encounter. Furthermore, it was documented that Resident #11 initially lied about
the incident because she/he did not want the peer to get in trouble.
(4) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 12-04-09 for Resident #17
revealed Resident #17 was involved in an altercation with a peer while staff was in process of
restraining another peer. It was documented that staff intervened after hearing Resident #17
screaming and proceeded to restrain the peer. Resident #17 ran out the dorm and the police was
notified of the elopement. Later Resident #17 was found by the pond in which she/he threatened
to throw his/herself in the pond in which Resident #17 eventually did and staff retrieved Resident
#17 out the water. The ambulance was called to assess Resident #17 for hypothermia. In addition,
review of Incident Report dated 05-08-10 for Resident #17 revealed that a room search was
conducted in which several notes were found referencing sexual contact with male peers at the
facility.
(5) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 06-05-10 for Resident #5
revealed Resident #5 was inadvertently given the wrong medication after a group of residents
crowded the dispensary area and staff failed to properly follow medication administration
procedure. In addition, review of Incident Report dated 05-13-10 for Resident #5 revealed
Resident #5 was treated and cleared by Lumpkin Co Paramedics for seizure disorder in which
resident lost consciousness for about 4 minutes.
(6) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 07-20-10 for Resident #2
revealed that a missing person was filed with Lumpkin Co Police for Resident #2 after a room
check was conducted around 9:20 pm in which Resident #2 was observed missing from the
facility. In addition, review of Incident Report dated 07-15-10 revealed Resident #2 gave his/her
psychotropic medication, Seroquel, to another peer. Furthermore, review of Incident Report
dated 07-02-10 revealed Resident #2 tested positive for THC which she/he brought on campus on
06-30-10.
(7) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Incident Report dated 05-13-10 for Resident #3
Page 11 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
revealed Resident #3 was transported to the hospital for possible concussion after Resident #3
reported hitting his/her head on a rock resulting in nausea and dizziness. All of the incidents
documented were not reported to the Department (ORCC) as of September 1, 2010.
( During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 3:03 PM with Staff DD, Staff DD
acknowledged that the resident's parents are notified regarding incidents involving the child.
Staff DD further indicated that the agency take medication errors very seriously and
acknowledged that it is considered a serious incident. Staff DD acknowledged that the incidents
were not reported within the 24 hour time frame as required by the Department. Staff DD further
indicated that the agency was unclear if several of the incidents in question were reportable
incident.
R 1003 290-2-5-.10(b) Assessment and Planning.
SS=C
A service and room, board and watchful oversight plan shall be developed by the child's Human Services
Professional in concert with the child's primary Child Care Worker, meaning the worker who has responsibility for
supervision of the child in the living
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on review of resident files and staff interview, the agency failed to develop a complete
service and room, board and watchful oversight (SRBWO) plan in four of five files reviewed;
Findings Include:
Page 12 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
(1) Record review on September 1, 2010 of Resident #2's SRBWO or Individual Service Plan (ISP)
(dated 08/10), Resident #4's SRBWO/ISP (dated 05/10), Resident #11's SRBWO/ISP (04/10), and
Resident #15's SRBWO/ISP (dated 01/10) revealed that agency failed to address
objectives/activities utilized by staff to assist the residents in attaining their stated goals,
preliminary plans of discharge, and any special care and/or services in the Individual Service
Plans for the residents. .
(2) According to e-mail correspondence dated September 23, 2010 from Staff DD, Staff DD
indicated that the agency ensures that the Individual Service Plans maintain the required
components for an SRBWO as indicated by the Departments rules and regulations.
This rule was previously cited on 07-21-10, 12-10-09 and 12-03-08.
R 1209 290-2-5-.12(3)(a)1.(i) Health Services.
SS=C
Such [general physical] examination shall be done by a medical doctor, physician's assistant, or public health
department and shall include basic diagnostic laboratory work, including but not limited to a Complete Blood Count
(CBC) and basic urinanalysis;
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on review of resident files and staff interview, the agency failed to document a Complete
Blood Count (CBC) in five of fourteen files reviewed. In addition, the agency failed to document
that a basic urinanalysis (UA) was included in the physical examination in twelve of fourteen files
reviewed;
Findings Include:
(1) On September 1, 2010, a review of the records for Resident #1 admitted 01/2010, Resident #2
Page 13 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
admitted 06/2010, Resident #3 admitted 03/2010, Resident #8 admitted 09/2009, Resident #9
admitted 03/2010, Resident #11 admitted 04/2010, Resident #12 admitted 04/2010, and Resident
#13 admitted 01/2010, revealed that there was no documentation of a complete blood count
within one year previous to or 72 hours after admission to the facility.
(2) On September 1, 2010, a review of the records for Resident #1 admitted 01/2010, Resident #2
admitted 06/2010, Resident #3 admitted 03/2010, Resident #4 admitted 05/2010, Resident #5
admitted 02/2010, Resident #6 admitted 08/2010, Resident #7 admitted 03/2010, Resident #8
admitted 08/2010, Resident #9 admitted 04/2010, Resident #11 admitted 04/2010, Resident #12
admitted 04/2010, and Resident #14 admitted 01/2010 revealed that there was no documentation
of a urinalysis within one year previous to or 72 hours after admission to the facility.
(2) In an e-mail sent Thursday, September 30, 2010 4:25 PM, Staff DD was given the opportunity
to respond to this finding. In response Staff DD sent an e-mail on October 1, 2010 at 1:39 PM in
which Staff DD did not dispute the findings in this correspondence. However, Staff DD provided
further documentation of physical examinations provided for students after September 1, 2010.
This rule was previously cited on 12-10-09 and 12-03-08.
R 1211 290-2-5-.12(3)(a)2. Health Services.
SS=B
A general dental examination of the child shall be provided for unless such an examination has been completed
within six months prior to admission. Such examinations shall be done by either a dentist or a dental hygienist that
is employed by the departmen
Page 14 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on review of resident files and staff interview, the facility failed to document a dental exam
dated less than six months prior to admission or within thirty days after admission in four of
fourteen files reviewed;
Findings include:
On September 1, 2010, a review of the files for Resident #8 admitted 08/2010, Resident #10
admitted 07/2010, Resident #11 admitted 04/2010, Resident #12 admitted 04/2010, and Child #14
admitted 01/2010 revealed that there was no evidence of a dental examination within six months
prior to or thirty days after admission to the facility.
In an email sent Thursday, September 30, 2010 4:25 PM, Staff A was given the opportunity to
respond to this finding. In response Staff A sent an email on October 1, 2010 at 1:39 PM, Staff A
did not dispute the findings in this correspondence. However, Staff A provided further
documentation of physical examinations provided to students after September 1, 2010.
This rule was previously cited on 12/10/2009
R 1217 290-2-5-.12(3)(d)2.i. Health Services.
SS=D
[Medication use and management] policies and procedures shall include the following: ...
2.(i) Prescription medications shall only be given to a child as ordered in the child's prescription. An institution shall
not permit such medications prescribed for
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and staff interviews, the agency failed to ensure that prescribed
medications for one child shall not be given to another child.
Page 15 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
Findings Include:
(1) Record review on September 1, 2010 agency Medication Administration Policy indicated that
when dispensing medication, the staff member will follow standard protocol in the distribution of
medication which includes asking the child his/her name, retrieve the med box, check MAR
(medication administration record) to identify the prescribed medication and student photo to
make sure the correct student is receiving the correct medication, the employee will ask the
student to identify the medication she/he is seeking, med will be placed in a cup and staff will
check the child ' s mouth to verify that the medication is swallowed, child will sign a sign sheet
to record the administration of the medication, and staff will sign the MAR. In addition in case of
medication errors and/or the administration of the wrong medication or wrong dosage ingested
the Department (Office of Residential Child Care) will be notified.
(2) On September 1, 2010, a review of the agency's incident report dated August 27, 2010 revealed
that Staff C inadvertently administered to Child #15 the medication Citolopram that was intended
for administration to another child. Citolopram was not prescribed for Child #15 by an authorized
by a health care professional.
(3) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 12:00 PM with Staff BB, Staff BB
acknowleged findings.
R 1219 290-2-5-.12(3)(d)3. Health Services.
SS=D
[Medication use and management] policies and procedures shall include the following: ...
3. Psychotropic medications. No child shall be given psychotropic medications unless use is in accordance with
the goals and objectives of the child's service plan. .
Page 16 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and interviews with staff, the facility failed to administer residents'
psychotropic medications in accordance with the goals and objectives of the child's service plan
in one of one incidents reviewed.
Findings:
(1) On September 1, 2010, a review of the agency's incident report dated August 27, 2010 revealed
that Staff C inadvertently administered to Child #15 the medication Citolopram that was intended
for administration to another child. A review of Resident #15's Individual Service Plan dated
August 2, 2010 at 9:37 AM revealed Resident #15's current medication was: Wellbutrin 150mg.
No other medications were listed on the individual service plan. The medication inadvertently
administered to Resident #15, Citolopram, is used to treat depression.
(2) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 12:00 PM with Staff BB, Staff BB
acknowleged findings.
When citing this tag one of the findings must include the RBWO plan and how it was
incorporated in the plan
R 1220 290-2-5-.12(3)(d)3.i. Health Services.
SS=D
[Medication use and management] policies and procedures shall include the following: ...
3.(i) Psychotropic medications must be prescribed by a physician who has responsibility for the diagnosis and
treatment of the child's conditions that necessitate suc
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and interviews with staff the facility failed to ensure that psychotropic
Page 17 of 23
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
medications must be prescribed by a physician who has responsibility for the diagnosis and
treatment of the child's conditions that necessitate such medication in one of one incidents
reviewed.
Findings:
(1) On September 1, 2010, a review of the agency's incident report dated August 27, 2010 revealed
that Staff C inadvertently administered to Child #15 the medication Citolopram that was intended
for administration to another child. The medication inadvertently administered to Child #15,
Citolopram, is used to treat depression.
(2) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 12:00 PM with Staff BB, Staff BB
acknowleged findings.
R 1221 290-2-5-.12(3)(d)3.ii. Health Services.
SS=D
[Medication use and management] policies and procedures shall include the following: ...
(ii) Psychotropic medication shall only be given to a child as ordered in the child's prescription. An institution shall
not permit such medications prescribed for on
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review, review of agency medication policy and staff interviews, the agency
failed to ensure medication was given to a child as ordered by the physician in one of one file
reviewed;
Findings:
Page 18 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
(1) Record review on September 1, 2010 agency Medication Administration Policy indicated that
when dispensing medication, the staff member will follow standard protocol in the distribution of
medication which includes asking the child his/her name, retrieve the med box, check MAR
(medication administration record) to identify the prescribed medication and student photo to
make sure the correct student is receiving the correct medication, the employee will ask the
student to identify the medication she/he is seeking, med will be placed in a cup and staff will
check the child ' s mouth to verify that the medication is swallowed, child will sign a sign sheet
to record the administration of the medication, and staff will sign the MAR. In addition in case of
medication errors and/or the administration of the wrong medication or wrong dosage ingested
the Department (Office of Residential Child Care) will be notified.
(2) On September 1, 2010, a review of the agency's incident report dated August 27, 2010
revealed that Staff C inadvertently administered to Child #15 the medication Citolopram that was
intended for administration to another child.
(3) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 12:00 PM with Staff BB, Staff BB
acknowleged findings.
R 1222 290-2-5-.12(3)(d)3.iii. Health Services.
SS=D
[Medication use and management] policies and procedures shall include the following:
(iii) The prescribing physician shall be notified in cases of dosage errors, drug reactions, or if the psychotropic
medication does not appear to be effective. ...
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Page 19 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
Based on record review and interviews with staff, the facility failed to notifying a child's
attending physician in cases of dosage errors, drug reactions, or if the prescription medication
does not appear to be effective to in 255 of 255 incidents reviewed
Findings:
(1) On September 1, 2010, a review of the agency's incident report dated August 27, 2010
revealed that Staff C inadvertently administered the Zyprexa, Benadryl, and of another child to
Child #15. The incident report reveals that Staff C notified Poison Control and the facility
"nurse." However, there is no documentation stating that the child's physician was notified. In
addition, on September 9, 2010 a review of Med Refusal Forms0 completed 1/12/10 through
8/28/10 revealed that there were more than 254 incidents of medication refusal. Furthermore,
there was no documentation stating that the resident's physician was notified of any of the
incidents.
(2) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at approximately 3:00 pm with Staff BB, Staff BB
stated that the resident's physicians were notified of these incidents. However, no evidence of
physician notification was produced. Staff BB stated that the notifications were made by
telephone and that there was "no way to document a phone call."
R 1416 290-2-5-.14(2)(a) Emergency Safety Interventions.
SS=D
Emergency Safety Interventions. Emergency safety interventions may be used only by staff trained in the proper
use of such interventions when a child exhibits a dangerous behavior reasonably expected to lead to immediate
physical harm to the child or othe
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on review of resident files and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure when an
emergency safety intervention (ESI) is utilized, staff is trained in the proper use of such
interventions in one of one file reviewed;
Page 20 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
Findings include:
(1) Record review on September 9, 2010 of the agency's ESI log for the first quarter revealed that
Staff F was involved in the following ESI techniques: two person escort (03-06-10), one person
escort and a seated restraint (03-14-10).
(2) Record review on September 9, 2010 of the agency's ESI log for the second quarter revealed
Staff F was involved in the following ESI techniques: seated restraint (04-16-10), one person
escort (05-30-10), seated restraint (06-02-10), and one person escort (06-10-10). In addition record
review revealed that Staff G was involved in the following ESI techniques for the second quarter:
one person escort (04-11-10) and a
(3) Record review on September 9, 2010 of the agency's ESI log for the third quarter revealed
Staff F was involved in the following ESI techniques: seated restraint (07-23-10) while Staff G was
involved in a standing hold (07-26-10).
(4) Record review on September 9, 2010 of Staff F and G's file revealed that both staff received
training in Therapeutic aggression control techniques-2 (verbal certification only) from 04-28-10
to 04-30-10.
(5) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:35 pm with Staff DD, Staff DD indicated
that staff who receive Full certification of therapeutic aggression control techniques receive 2
days verbal and 1 day physical training in ESI techniques. Most staff who has received verbal
certification only may have an injury that would have prohibited the individual from engaging in
full certification in ESI techniques which involves the use of physical techniques.
R 1455 290-2-5-.14(2)(k) Emergency Safety Interventions.
SS=D
Institutions shall submit to the Department electronically or by facsimile a report, in a format acceptable to the
Department, within 24 hours whenever an unusual incident occurs regarding emergency safety interventions,
including:
1. Any injury requiri
Page 21 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to submit to the Department within
24 hours in which three or more instances of emergency safety interventions of a specific child
occurred and/or whenever the institution has had a total of 10 emergency safety interventions
(ESIs) for all children in care within the 30-day period;
Findings include:
(1) Record review on September 9, 2010 of the agency's ESI log for the first quarter of 2010
revealed that the agency initiated 11 ESI containments in which 6 containments were assisted
relocation/escorts and 5 involved hands on restraints. Further review revealed that Resident #18
had three or more instances of ESIs (01-08-10, 01-13-10, 01-25-10, and 01-27-10) within a 30 day
period. Furthermore a review of the ESI log for the second quarter of 2010 revealed that the
agency initiated 14 ESI containments in which 9 containments were assisted relocation/escorts
and 5 involved hands on restraints. The Department has not received any reports from the
agency for the month of January-March 2010 and April-June 2010 regarding emergency safety
interventions.
(2) During an interview on September 9, 2010 at about 2:35 pm with Staff DD, Staff DD
acknowledged findings.
Page 22 of 23
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
9/1/2010
9/9/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
As of: Saturday, October 30, 2010
R 9999 Closing Comments.
A brief exit conference was conducted on September 9, 2010. The investigation was completed
on September 23, 2010. There were several citations related to the allegations. A preliminary
report was e-mailed to the agency on September 24, 2010. Although a formal written plan of
correction is not due to the surveyor until 10 days after receipt of the final Statement of
Deficiencies, all citations are expected to immediately be brought into compliance with the Rules
and Regulations.
The investigation was completed on October 1, 2010. The Final Statement of Deficiency was
e-mailed to the agency on October 28, 2010. A plan of correction is due to the surveyor November
15, 2010. An office conference will be scheduled to address the agency's ongoing
noncompliance.
Page 23 of 23
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Parents, get your kids out of RCS's dangerous juvenile prison environment before it's too late!

[Watchful Yeoman]

Meet the New Program.  Same as the Old Program.

[Dysfunction Junction]

Students charged with assault, robbery of teacher
By Matt Aiken
Published:
Wednesday, December 1, 2010 9:29 AM EST
A pair of Ridge Creek Academy students will face charges of aggravated assault and armed robbery after they allegedly attacked a counselor, stole her car and fled from deputies in an early morning escape attempt from the Camp Wahsega Road therapeutic boarding school last week.

Officials from the Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office said Sydney Vaughn and Lucrezia Albegiani, both 17 years old, developed a detailed plan to overpower their night-time counselor Debra Page and then flee to Atlanta early Friday morning.

“They were conspiring to leave campus and steal one of the staff member's vehicles after assaulting her,” said Investigator Ellis Childress. “They did so.”

It was a few hours after midnight when the two girls reportedly rose from bed and began to strike up a conversation with their counselor. When Page turned her back, Vaughn reportedly grabbed a nearby lamp and struck her on the head with it, said officials.

Albegiani then allegedly put her counselor in a choke hold.

Page, who was still conscious, reportedly told the students to take what they wanted from her.

“They took her keys, her radio and her purse and left,” Childress said.

The pair then reportedly jumped into Page's Toyota 4-Runner and drove away with Vaughn at the wheel.

Page then alerted a nighttime counselor at the boys' dorm who called 911 and reported the incident as a runaway juvenile and stolen vehicle.

By the time the suspects had traveled the eight miles to the Highway 19 Bypass two LCSO patrol cars were turning onto Camp Wahsega Road.

When the deputies signaled from them to pull over Vaughn reportedly sped up to about 70 miles per hour, ran right through the intersection and drove the vehicle into the side of Dahlonega Automotive.

“They hit a propane tank damaging the tank and the well cap,” Childress said.

The volatile liquid leaked into the parking lot but did not ignite. The students were then taken to Chestatee Regional Hospital for precautionary purposes.

Since the incident was not reported as an attack it was only after talking to the suspects that investigators discovered what had taken place at the boarding school, said Childress.

“They said they weren't going to kill her. They were just going to hurt her real bad and they were going to take her car and go down to Atlanta,” he said.

Instead Vaughn and Albegiani were taken to Lumpkin County Detention Center.

Albegiani, of Lemont, Ill., has since been charged with aggravated assault, armed robbery, second degree criminal damage to property and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault and armed robbery.

Vaughn, of State College, Pa., faces the same charges as well as a slew of traffic related offenses.

On Monday, Sheriff Stacy Jarrard said the LCSO is occasionally called to the boarding school, formerly known as Hidden Lake Academy, to assist with runaway juveniles but the incidents usually aren't of this level of violence.

“I don't know of anything since I've been sheriff that has been this bad,” he said. “ ... I'm just glad the the officers that were responding made contact with the victim's vehicle and got them stopped, not only for the welfare of the victim but also for the welfare of the two girls.”

Ridge Creek Academy founder Len Buccellato said he had no comment on the incident.

http://www.thedahloneganugget.com/artic ... ssault.txt

[RobertBruce]

Buch has no comment? That's because he's pissed off the story already got out. Can't have people finding out what really goes on over there can you Buchi?

Since the incident was not reported as an attack it was only after talking to the suspects that investigators discovered what had taken place at the boarding school, said Childress.

Of course not. Criminal acts are never reported in an effort to hide the truth.

[Guest3]

Amen, RB!!!!

He's probably trying to figure out how to put a positive spin on this story.  :roflmao:

[Jill Ryan]

RIDGE CREEK, INC.
Residential Treatment Emotionally Disturbed Children
Dahlonega, Georgia
Provider NPI: 1831364835
Organization Information:
Organization Name:  RIDGE CREEK, INC.
Organization is not Subpart
Authorized Official:  LEN  BUCCELLATO  PRESIDENT  706-8644730

Practice Location:
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD  DAHLONEGA, GA 30533 US
Tel: 706-864-4730  Fax: --

Business Mailing Address:
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD  DAHLONEGA, GA 30533 US
Tel: 706-864-4730  Fax: --

Entity Type: Organization

Taxonomy:

Primary Code Category/Description State License Number
Y 322D00000X Residential Treatment Facilities
Residential Treatment Facility, Emotionally Disturbed Children
 GA CCI001713

[RCSworkhorse]

I reviwed the ORS report. I was a staff at RCS during part of this time frame. Though I did not have a good experience at RCS as an employee, some of the citations are rediculous! Especially in regards to the Wilderness Intervention. First, the students were all provided with a sleeping pad and a down sleeping bag in addition to thermal layers in case it got cold. The students were required to assist in the preparation of food but staff helped with food prep and were provided 3 square meals and two snacks each day. Students were also provided two, one litre water bottles and a were given access to water coolers and were encouraged to fill up many times throughout the day. The Solo was a 24 hour period where students slept in individual tents, closely monitored by staff. Students could not talk to other students but could talk to staff any time they wanted...this was about self-control, learning to delay gratification and having time to reflect about what behaviors they did that got them sent to intervention. Once solo was over the group slept in a group shelter called a Tabin (not a tavern). The beds were indeed metal frames with a wood slab on top...like a box spring. Students had sleeping pads, sleeping bags and their pillows. This may have been one of the most therapeutic things that happened on campus during my short time there. Students had to learn about self-reliance and independant thinking--not following peers who are doing negative behaviors. Each day students engaged in therapeutic groups, community projects and worked on academics and therapeutic assignments and learned how to hold each other accountable. As you can tell i am a big believer in the power of outdoor therapeutic programs! Many students returning from those interventions made huge progress behaviorally even after only 7 days and many of them have continued on that path of sucess. Also know that the interventions occured during warm months.

Though many a shadey thing has happened on that campus the staff members who work directly with the students are good people who during my time there made the best effort they could to support students given their limited training and supports. The biggest limitations to the program are the decision makers and higher-ups in Administration.

 :soapbox:

ok...I will get off my soap box now!

[Whooter]

I reviwed the ORS report. I was a staff at RCS during part of this time frame. Though I did not have a good experience at RCS as an employee, some of the citations are rediculous! Especially in regards to the Wilderness Intervention. First, the students were all provided with a sleeping pad and a down sleeping bag in addition to thermal layers in case it got cold. The students were required to assist in the preparation of food but staff helped with food prep and were provided 3 square meals and two snacks each day. Students were also provided two, one litre water bottles and a were given access to water coolers and were encouraged to fill up many times throughout the day. The Solo was a 24 hour period where students slept in individual tents, closely monitored by staff. Students could not talk to other students but could talk to staff any time they wanted...this was about self-control, learning to delay gratification and having time to reflect about what behaviors they did that got them sent to intervention. Once solo was over the group slept in a group shelter called a Tabin (not a tavern). The beds were indeed metal frames with a wood slab on top...like a box spring. Students had sleeping pads, sleeping bags and their pillows. This may have been one of the most therapeutic things that happened on campus during my short time there. Students had to learn about self-reliance and independant thinking--not following peers who are doing negative behaviors. Each day students engaged in therapeutic groups, community projects and worked on academics and therapeutic assignments and learned how to hold each other accountable. As you can tell i am a big believer in the power of outdoor therapeutic programs! Many students returning from those interventions made huge progress behaviorally even after only 7 days and many of them have continued on that path of sucess. Also know that the interventions occured during warm months.

Though many a shadey thing has happened on that campus the staff members who work directly with the students are good people who during my time there made the best effort they could to support students given their limited training and supports. The biggest limitations to the program are the decision makers and higher-ups in Administration.

 :soapbox:

ok...I will get off my soap box now!

Very informative,RCS Workhorse, thank you for sharing.  were you assigned to just the wilderness piece of the program?  Did RCS provide you training? Were people trained in "first response" or any medical training?  What were some of the shady things that occurred on campus that you knew about?  



...

[Whooter]

Though I did not have a good experience at RCS as an employee, some of the citations are rediculous! Especially in regards to the Wilderness Intervention. First, the students were all provided with a sleeping pad and a down sleeping bag in addition to thermal layers in case it got cold.

Many of the negative comments here are from students who did not apply themselves to the program and therefore did not benefit from it.  There is a staff member who worked at HLA and was subsequently fired because he lied about having a felony record.  This guy posts here but his storys of HLA do not carry much credibility because of his agenda.  It is good to get some first hand information about RCS.



...

[Ursus]

Many of the negative comments here are from students who did not apply themselves to the program and therefore did not benefit from it.

And you know this ... how? You are certainly entitled to your opinion, Whooter, but this is not the same thing as actual facts.

There is a staff member who worked at HLA and was subsequently fired because he lied about having a felony record.

And you know this ... how? From what I've read, there were also other staff members who had felonies on their records. From the sound of it, Buccellato appears to have been quite aware of these priors and didn't/doesn't seem to have a problem with them. I s'pose a lot could depend on what the felony conviction was for, and when and how it was committed, eh?

How do you know that this former staff member lied? And how do you know that he was fired? This sounds like more opinion on your part, Whooter!

This guy posts here but his storys of HLA do not carry much credibility because of his agenda.

Really? His stories of HLA actually carry quite a lot of credibility here, but that's just my opinion. It's YOUR stories that appear to lack credibility, Whooter. Mostly because so many of your "facts" seem to contradict one another, but also because you seem to have an overriding agenda of your own. Of course, that's just my opinion, but at least I call it for what it is!  

[Whooter]

And you know this ... how? You are certainly entitled to your opinion, Whooter, but this is not the same thing as actual facts.

I have been following the HLS/RCS threads for many years, Ursus.  How do you know that most of the posters here on fornits are anti-program?

And you know this ... how? From what I've read, there were also other staff members who had felonies on their records. From the sound of it, Buccellato appears to have been quite aware of these priors and didn't/doesn't seem to have a problem with them. I s'pose a lot could depend on what the felony conviction was for, and when and how it was committed, eh?

I have not read about the other felonies myself and I have been reading this thread for years now.  I am only aware of the one here who speaks negative towards HLA and RCS.  

How do you know that this former staff member lied? And how do you know that he was fired? This sounds like more opinion on your part, Whooter!

I have seen many inconsistencies in his stories and statements made.  He has also made statements as fact about RCS when he was fired years before that school was opened.  If you compare what RCSworkhorse describes (and he wasnt pleased with RCS) to what Troll Control describes it is not hard to see who is not credible.  RCSworkhorse is able to see the good and the bad within the same program and speak honestly about it even with a known bias.  We have never seen this from regulars here on fornits.  This gets back to another thread about honesty that we discussed earlier.

Really? His stories of HLA actually carry quite a lot of credibility here, but that's just my opinion. It's YOUR stories that appear to lack credibility, Whooter. Mostly because so many of your "facts" seem to contradict one another, but also because you seem to have an overriding agenda of your own. Of course, that's just my opinion, but at least I call it for what it is!  

I understand this is your opinion, Ursus.  But we have to keep in mind that you are radically anti-program.  I on the other hand am a moderate and able to see both sides of the issues fairly.  I understand that there are programs which are abusive and those that are not.  Many on fornits cannot see this and therefore hold a heavily biased and uniformed opinion of the industry.  Do you see what I mean?  So of course they would view my information as not credible because it does not fit with their (your) agenda.  

If you speak to people randomly on fornits they will tell you that they dont know anyone who has benefited from a program and therefore could not possibly speak to the positive side of the industry, most have only been exposed to negative information and experiences.

I dont get frustrated or get upset with negative reports or positive reports, I accept all information equally.  But the anti-program group like yourself cannot make that statement.  Many of you close the door on information you dont want to hear or try to discredit the information or the person posting it.  You have been here long enough to witness this, Ursus.



...

[Dysfunction Junction]

Ursus, you can't believe your lying eyes!  You should believe Whooter!  :rofl:

Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

R 0000 Opening Comments.
The purpose of this visit was to conduct an investigation into Ga., 77483.
R 0709 290-2-5-.07(d) Inspections and Investigations.
SS=D
Failure to Allow Access. Failure to allow access of the department's representative to the institution, its staff, or
the children receiving care at the institution or the books, records, papers, or other information related to initial or
continued licens
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on a requested record review and staff interview the agency failed to allow acces to the
institution's resident case records.
Findings include:
Upon a request by the surveyor to review the facility's residential case records on 1/26/2010 at
11:00 am, the surveyor was told by Staff A that the requested records were not accessible at the
time of the inspection due to the agency having technical difficulties with their electronic filing
system.
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 5:00 pm with Staff A revealed that their system " Best Note"
is down and that all information is stored there.
R 0840 290-2-5-.08(6) Staffing.
SS=D
Page 1 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

Staffing. The institution shall have sufficient numbers of qualified and trained staff as required by these rules to
provide for the needs, care, protection, and supervision of children. All staff and volunteers shall be supervised to
ensure that assigne
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
****Based on file review and staff interview the agency failed to provide for the needs, care,
protection, and supervision of children.
Findings include:
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 11:30 am with Resident #1 revealed that ( he/she recalls the
incident in question and it began when- on the day of the incident (1/9/2010),) all of the students
were in the Student Activity Center (SAC). Resident #1 stated that he/she was approached by
Resident #2 who inquired if he/she made a derogatory statement, referencing two other students
that are known by all of the students to be "a couple" and whom Resident #1 had written a racial
slur on the wall approximately a week prior. Resident #1 stated that as the confrontation
continued, a group of other students became involved . ( and the argument began to become
threatening.- delete) Resident #1 stated that during the argument, Resident #4 approached
him/her from behind and "punched him/her in the back of the head twice". Resident #1 reported
that Resident #4 was then restrained by staff? and that Resident #2 responded by becoming
irate and blocked the exit doorway that staff members were attempting to exit thru with Resident
#4. Resident #1 stated that he/she could hear the remaining students "plotting on how to hit
him/her" and then Resident #2 began to approach him/her, but "was restrained on the ground by
Staff B". Resident #1 reported that Resident #2 accompanied by Resident #3 began to fight Staff
B, punching and kicking the staff member in the face and torso area while the remaining group
of students attempted to bombard him/her. Resident #1 stated that he/she ran out of the
building, slipped on the ice covering the walkway, and fell into some shrubbery. Resident #1
stated that he/she could hear the other resident attempting to follow after him/her; however,
Resident #7 "blocked the exit way and instructed him/her to run" . Resident #1 stated that
he/she and another student left the area; however, he/she was soon stopped by a group of
residents who continued to strike him/her. The other students held them off while he/she locked
him/herself in a car until staff members arrived. The police responded shortly afterwards.
(Resident #1 stated that upon returning to his/her room, it was discovered that someone had
broken his/her electric guitar which he/she estimated to be worth four thousand dollars.- Pam
questioned the relevance. I thought you were trying to show that the residents were obviously
unsupervised at that time as well to have been able to destroy property in a bedroom, but she felt
the connection needed to be made more clear. You can either leave as is, delet or add more)
Page 2 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Result
Resident #1 stated that he/she received an injury to the eye when hit by Resident #4 and
scrapes/scratches from falling into the shrubs. Resident #1 reported that he/she recalls four staff
members on duty; however; one had gone to get lunch. Resident #1 stated that staff members
did not intervene during the onset of the altercation and only responded once he/she had been
struck by Resident #4.
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 12:00 pm with Resident #4 revealed that ( he/she recalls the
incident in question. Resident #4 stated that - delete ) on the day of the incident (1/9/2010),
Resident #1 was "being racist" and wrote derogatory statements using inappropriate language
in reference to ( African Americans- race ) . Resident #4 stated that while in the SAC, Resident #1
then verbalized derogatory statements using inappropriate language ( in reference to African
Americans- regarding race ) and that "a group of students got mad and beat Resident #1 up".
Resident #4 stated ("staff members- do we know which ones so that we can add their
non-identifiers? If not, leave as is) were attempting to contain the situation and deal with all of
the other students but that other students ultimately pulled ( him/her- use non identifier. unclear
if this is referring to staff or resident) away so that Resident #1 would not get beat up that bad".
Resident #4 stated that he/she recalls three to four staff members being present at the time of the
incident.
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 12:30 pm with Resident #5 revealed that he/she recalls the
1/9/2010 incident ( in question- delete) and that "all of the trouble started a few weeks ago when
Resident #1 wrote "a racial slur" on the bathroom wall and staff members did not give Resident
#1 a consequence for the act. Resident # 5 stated that specifically, the incident in question
began when the students were made aware that Resident #1 had made a ( verbal- delete) racial
slur when Resident #1 and #2 began to argue. Resident #5 reported that a group of students
attempted to "fight" Resident #1 and were "able to get a few hits in when Resident #1 ran out of
the building". Resident # 5 stated that he/she and a group of other residents attempted to follow,
however were stopped by Resident #7, who ultimately "restrained and then drug him/her back
into the building. " Is this where the end of quote goes?
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 1:00 pm with Resident #6 revealed that (he/she recalls the
incident in question. Resident #6 stated that on the day of the incident (1/9/2010), ( he/she-
Resident #6?) became involved in a conflict with Resident #1 upon gaining knowledge that
Resident # 1 wrote a derogatory statement ( towards African Americans- regarding race) on the
wall. Resident #6 stated, during this occurrence, he/she confronted Resident #1 about the act
and Resident #1 assured him/her that "nothing like that would happen again". Resident #6
stated that on the day of the incident in question, which was approximately a week later,
Page 3 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Result
Resident #1 verbalized a racial slur directed at two students of different races that are involved in
a relationship.
File review conducted on 3/30/2010 of the agency's incident report, dated 1/9/2010, revealed that
the incident occurred on 1/9/2010 at approximately 4:00 pm, when staff members heard an
argument going on in the movie room of the Student Activity Center (SAC). The report states that
Staff members B, C and D observed Resident #1 being confronted by Resident #2, #4, #5, and #6
in regards to "a racist comment that he/she made towards another student". The report states
that the students surrounded Resident #1 and that staff members "tried to defuse the situation"
when Resident #4 moved behind Resident
#1 and "began to repeatedly hit Resident #1 in the head". The report stated that Staff D placed
Resident #4 into a "double arm bar restraint" while Resident #1 was escorted by Staff members
B and C into the main room of the SAC. The report states that Staff C instructed Resident #1 to
leave and go to the dorm, but Resident #1 refused to comply. The report then states that
Resident #2 "jumped in front of" Resident #1 and stated that Resident #1 was not leaving.
Resident #2 then yelled to Resident #4, #5, and # 6 asking "do they have his/her back" and will
they participate in assaulting Resident #1. The report continues to describe various efforts
employed by Resident #2 to rally residents and instances in which the residents were
disobedient and disrespectful to staff members. Ultimately the report states that Staff B got
between Resident #1 and #2 and that Resident #2 "shoved Staff B and then slapped Resident
#1". The report states that Staff B then "escorted Resident #2 to the ground and that Staff C
grabbed his/her legs". The report states that while Staff B attempted "to get into the proper
seated double arm bar restraint, Resident #3 "ran up and repeatedly kicked Staff B in his/her face
causing his/her lips to split, nose to bleed, and bruising on the forehead". The report states that
"other students and Staff D pulled Resident #3 off of Staff B and that Staff C got up to help with
the restraint. The report then states that Resident #1 ran out of the front door of the SAC and that
Resident #4, #5, #6, and #8 followed after him/her. The report continues to state that Resident #2
attempted to follow and that ultimately Staff B "placed him/her in a standing double arm bar
restraint" when Resident #3 intervened and attempted to punch Staff B. The report states that
Staff B was able " to dodge the punch and that two other residents restrained Resident #3
"followed by Staff D". The report states that "outside of the dorm, Resident #1 was hit several
times in the face; his/her right eye was swollen the next day.
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 5:05 pm., with Staff A revealed that staff to client ratio at the
time of the incident was 6 staff members to 40 students. Staff A stated that he/she believes that
the number of staff members was suitable; however, he/she believes that staff members reaction
to the incident was inappropriate- was it indicated how so? If not, leave as is.). Staff A stated
Page 4 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

that additionally there was "one clinical worker on call that lived on campus and that he/she and
another staff member arrived on campus" after being notified of the incident.
R 0861 290-2-5-.08(7) Staffing.
SS=D
Reporting. Detailed written summary reports shall be made to the Department of Human Resources, Office of
Regulatory Services, Residential Child Care Unit via email or fax on the required incident intake information form
(IIIF) within 24 hours.
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on file review and staff interview , the agency failed to submit a detailed written summary
report to the Department of Human Resources, Office of Regulatory Services, Residential Child
Care Unit within 24 hours.
Findings include:
File review conducted on 1/26/2010 at 12:00 pm of the agency's incident report, dated 1/9/2010,
revealed that the local county sheriff's office was contacted regarding this incident and as a
result Resident #2 and #3 were arrested and detained. The agency did not make a report of the
incident to the Department of Human Resources, Office of Regulatory Services, Residential Child
Care Unit within 24 hours of its occurrence.
Interview conducted on 1/26/010 at 5:15 pm with Staff A revealed that the agency was not aware
that a report was required to be made to the department in connection to police involvement with
residents and that he/she was under the impression that charges had to have been filed by the
agency.
R 0862 290-2-5-.08(7)(a-g) Staffing.
Page 5 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

SS=D
This [detailed written summary] report shall be made regarding serious occurrences involving children in care,
including but not limited to:
(a) Accidents or injuries requiring medical treatment and/or hospitalization;
(b) Death;
(c) Suicide attempts;
(
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on file review and staff interview, the agency failed to submit a detailed written summary
report regarding serious occurrences involving children in care.
Findings include:
File review conducted on 1/26/2010 at 12:00 pm of the agency's incident report, dated 1/9/2010,
revealed that the local county sheriff's office was contacted regarding this incident and as a
result Resident #2 and #3 were arrested and detained. The agency did not submit a detailed
written summary report regarding serious occurrences involving children in care.
Interview conducted on 1/26/010 at 5:15 pm with Staff A revealed that the agency was not aware
that a report was required to be made to the department in connection to police involvement with
residents and that he/she was under the impression that charges had to have been filed by the
agency.
R 1413 290-2-5-.14(1)(d) Behavior Management.
SS=D
Residents shall not be permitted to participate in the behavior management of other residents or to discipline other
residents, except as part of an organized therapeutic self-governing program in accordance with accepted
standards of practice that is con
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on file review and staff interview, residents were allowed to participate in the behavior
management of other residents.
Page 6 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
Findings include:
File review conducted on 3/30/2010 of the agency's incident report, dated 1/9/2010, revealed that
the incident occurred on 1/9/2010 at approximately 4:00 pm, when staff members heard an
argument going on in the movie room of the Student Activity Center (SAC). The report states that
Staff members B, C and D observed Resident #1 being confronted by Resident #2, #4, #5, and #6
in regards to "a racist comment that he/she made towards another student". The report states
that the students surrounded Resident #1 and that staff members "tried to defuse the situation"
when Resident #4 moved behind Resident #1and "began to repeatedly hit Resident #1 in the
head". The report stated that Staff D placed Resident #4 into a "double arm bar restraint" while
Resident #1 was escorted by Staff members B and C into the main room of the SAC. The report
states that Staff C instructed Resident #1 to leave and go to the dorm, but Resident #1 refused to
comply. The report then states that Resident #2 "jumped in front of" Resident #1 and stated that
Resident #1 was not leaving. Resident #2 then yelled to Resident #4, #5, and # 6 asking "do
they have his/her back" and will they participate in assaulting Resident #1. The report
continues to describe various efforts employed by Resident #2 to rally residents and instances in
which the residents were disobedient and disrespectful to staff members. Ultimately the report
states that Staff B got between Resident #1 and #2 and that Resident #2 "shoved Staff B and
then slapped Resident #1". The report states that Staff B then "escorted Resident #2 to the
ground and that Staff C grabbed his/her legs". The report states that while Staff B attempted "to
get into the proper seated double arm bar restraint, Resident #3 "ran up and repeatedly kicked
Staff B in his/her face causing his/her lips to split, nose to bleed, and bruising on the forehead".
The report states that "other students and Staff D pulled Resident #3 off of Staff B and that Staff
C got up to help with the restraint. The report then states that Resident #1 ran out of the front
door of the SAC and that Resident #4, #5, #6, and #8 followed after him/her. The report continues
to state that Resident #2 attempted to follow and that ultimately Staff B "placed him/her in a
standing double arm bar restraint" when Resident #3 intervened and attempted to punch Staff B.
The report states that Staff B was able " to dodge the punch and that two other residents
restrained Resident #3 "followed by Staff D". The report states that "outside of the dorm,
Resident #1 was hit several times in the face; his/her right eye was swollen the next day.
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 5:30 pm with Staff A revealed that he/she acknowledges that
"students were involved in the behavior managment of other students; however, maintains that
the agency does not allow students to participate in the behavioral management of other
students."
Page 7 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
R 1420 290-2-5-.14(2)(c)2. Emergency Safety Interventions.
SS=D
Emergency safety interventions policies and procedures shall include: ...
2. Provisions for the documentation of each use of an emergency safety intervention including:
(i) Date and a description of the precipitating incident;
(ii) Description of the
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on file review and staff interview the agency failed to document provisions for the
documentation of each use of an emergency safety intervention.
Findings include:
A file review conducted of the agency's incident report, dated 1/9/2010, indicated that emergency
safety interventions were carried out on several residents; however, there was no provision for
the documentation (on the provisions - delete) for each use.
File review conducted on 3/30/2010 of the agency's incident report, dated 1/9/2010, revealed that
the incident occurred on 1/9/2010 at approximately 4:00 pm, when staff members heard an
argument going on in the movie room of the Student Activity Center (SAC). The report states that
Staff members B, C and D observed Resident #1 being confronted by Resident #2, #4, #5, and #6
in regards to "a racist comment that he/she made towards another student". The report states
that the students surrounded Resident #1 and that staff members "tried to defuse the situation"
when Resident #4 moved behind Resident #1 and "began to repeatedly hit Resident #1 in the
head". The report stated that Staff D placed Resident #4 into a "double arm bar restraint" while
Resident #1 was escorted by Staff members B and C into the main room of the SAC. The report
states that Staff C instructed Resident #1 to leave and go to the dorm, but Resident #1 refused to
comply. The report then states that Resident #2 "jumped in front of" Resident #1 and stated that
Resident #1 was not leaving. Resident #2 then yelled to Resident #4, #5, and # 6 asking "do they
have his/her back" and will they participate in assaulting Resident #1. The report continues to
describe various efforts employed by Resident #2 to rally residents and instances in which the
Page 8 of 9
More Information Return to Facility Location and Information Guide Return to Inspection Screen
Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
1/26/2010
3/30/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC- MOUNTAIN BROOK ACADEMY
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE ROAD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

residents were disobedient and disrespectful to staff members. Ultimately the report states that
Staff B got between Resident #1 and #2 and that Resident #2 "shoved Staff B and then slapped
Resident #1". The report states that Staff B then "escorted Resident #2 to the ground and that
Staff C grabbed his/her legs". The report states that while Staff B attempted "to get into the
proper seated double arm bar restraint, Resident #3 "ran up and repeatedly kicked Staff B in
his/her face causing his/her lips to split, nose to bleed, and bruising on the forehead". The report
states that "other students and Staff D pulled Resident #3 off of Staff B and that Staff C got up to
help with the restraint. The report then states that Resident #1 ran out of the front door of the
SAC and that Resident #4, #5, #6, and #8 followed after him/her. The report continues to state
that Resident #2 attempted to follow and that ultimately Staff B "placed him/her in a standing
double arm bar restraint" when Resident #3 intervened and attempted to punch Staff B. The
report states that Staff B was able " to dodge the punch and that two other residents restrained
Resident #3 "followed by Staff D". The report states that "outside of the dorm, Resident #1 was
hit several times in the face; his/her right eye was swollen the next day.
Interview conducted on 1/26/2010 at 5:35 pm with Staff A revealed that he/she acknowledges that
there was no documentation of the identified emergency safety interventions described.
R 9999 Closing Comments.
This visit was concluded with an exit conference. A preliminary inspection report was submitted
to the agency on 4/12/2010. A plan of correction is due ten days after receipt of the survey.
Page 9 of 9
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

R 0000 Opening Comments.
The purpose of this survey is to conduct an investigation for self reported incident #GA00083346.
R 0840 290-2-5-.08(6) Staffing.
SS=G
Staffing. The institution shall have sufficient numbers of qualified and trained staff as required by these rules to
provide for the needs, care, protection, and supervision of children. All staff and volunteers shall be supervised to
ensure that assigne
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
****Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to have sufficient numbers of
trained staff to provide for the protection of children in care.
Findings include
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Resident #1's incident report, dated 6/10/2010, revealed that at
9:15 pm, Staff A went into Resident #1's room to talk with him/her about some issues Resident #1
has been struggling with throughout the day. This report indicated that Resident #1 was sitting at
the computer with another resident and Staff A began questioning Resident #1. This report stated
that at this time Resident #1 picked up the computer and threw it against the wall. The report
indicated that Resident #1 then proceeded to pick up his/her chair and broke the glass window.
This report revealed that Staff A proceeded to direct Resident #1 outside to where he/she could
calm down and regain his/her thoughts. The report then stated that Resident #1 said he/she was
not going outside until he/she dealt with something first. The report went on to state that
Resident #1 got up and ran to a room where Resident #2 was located, which was down the hall in
this dorm. This report stated that Resident #1 and #2 began fighting. According to this report
other residents began to jump in by punching and kicking Resident #1. Staff A wrote that other
staff attempted to break up the fight and was assisted by Staff B.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Staff A's training, revealed that on April 28-30, 2010 he/she
received full certification in Therapeutic Aggression Control Techniques-2 (TACT-2). Staff A's
date of hire was 3/15/2010.
Page 1 of 11
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Georgia Department of Human Resources,
Office of Regulatory Services State Form
Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Staff B's training, revealed that on April 28-30, 2010, he/she
received verbal certification on TACT 2. Staff B's date of hire was 1/29/2010.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Staff C's file, revealed that he/she has not been trained on any
emergency safety interventions. Staff C's date of hire was 6/1/2010.
Interview with Staff D was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:46 pm. Staff D stated that Staff B did
complete the full TACT-2 training, but received verbal certification because she/he has a smaller
stature than the residents.
Interview with Staff A was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 2:15 pm. Staff A reported that the incident
happened on 6/10/2010. Staff A said he/she was coming in the dorms around 9:15 pm and was
going to follow up with Resident #1 as he/she requested earlier for another issue. Staff A
reported that Resident #1 was sitting at his/her computer and talking with another resident. Staff
A said Resident #1 was crying and picked up the computer and pushed it away. Staff A said
he/she offered to speak with Resident #1, but Resident #1 refused. Staff A said Resident #1 then
picked up a chair and said "not until I finish some business." Staff A said Resident #1 then threw
the chair against the window causing it to shatter. Staff A went on to state that Resident #1 ran
out of his/her room towards Resident #2's room. Staff A said Resident #1 was screaming and
running causing residents to look. Staff A said when he/she got to the room there was Resident
#1 and #2. Staff A said he/she arrived in the room the same time Resident #3 and #4 entered. Staff
A reported that there was a split second where it was just Resident #1 and #2 alone in the room,
so he/she was able to pull Resident #2 to the side. Staff A said Resident #1 was on the floor when
Resident #3 and #4 started kicking Resident #1. Staff A then stated that he/she was trying to
cover Resident #1 and deflect as many of the kicks as possible. Staff A said about 10 seconds
after he/she arrived in the room, Staff C entered; however, Staff C wasn't able to assist as much
because he/she was not trained in emergency safety interventions. Staff A said Resident #1
received about 10-15 kicks to the face and blood was everywhere. Staff A then reported that
Resident #3 pushed Staff C to the side. Staff A recalled that Staff B came in the room right after
Staff C. Staff A stated that Resident #4 pushed Staff B through a crowd of residents that were
outside the room blocking the entrance. Staff A then reported that Staff B was able to get back up
and restrain Resident #4. Staff A said when Resident #4 was restrained, he/she could be heard
and got the residents to leave the area. Staff A said Staff B was able to get the aggressors out of
the room. Staff A said he/she walked Resident #1 out of the room and and took Resident #1 to
the emergency room with Staff B. Staff A stated that Staff C was on his/her second day of work,
so he/she was trying to get the residents away, but did not restrain anyone. Staff A indicated that
Resident #1 had a broken nose, 2 chipped teeth, but no concussion. Staff A recalled that there
Page 2 of 11
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and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
were about 15 residents present in the doorway at the time of the incident. Staff A reported that at
the time of the incident there were 29 residents total, including the ones that were fighting, and
three staff members on duty for that dorm.
Interview with Resident #1 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 2:42 pm. Resident #1 reported that at
the beginning of the day he/she had a fight with another resident that day, who was later picked
on by Resident #5. Resident #1 said she/he told his/her counselor about the issue and the
counselor spoke with Resident #5. Resident #1 said later that day Resident #2 came to his/her
room and threatened him/her. Resident #1 said he/she got angry and ran down the hall to
Resident #2's room. Resident #1 said they started fighting and all he/she can remember is being
attacked by others. Resident #1 said Staff A was trying to keep Resident #2 off of him/her, while
Staff B was trying to enter the room. Resident #1 stated that some residents blocking the door.
Resident #1 said residents were hitting him/her. Resident #1 said he/she went to the hospital and
was diagnosed with a broken nose and swelling. Resident #1 said Staff A and B took him/her to
the emergency room. Resident #1 said he/she blacked out a little when he/she was hit to the
head. Resident #1 reported that staff knew he/she was getting angry throughout the day, but Staff
A did what he/she could. Resident #1 said he/she told his/her counselor that day that he/she was
being antagonized by Resident #5. Resident #1 said he/she thinks that Staff A knew about the
problems he/she was having and that's why Staff A came to the room to talk. Resident #1 said
Staff C didn't get in the room, but Staff B was trying to keep people out of the room.
Interview with Staff C was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:00 pm. Staff C said on June 10th, he/she
noticed something was going on when Resident #1 broke a window. Staff C said Staff A was with
Resident #1. Staff C said he/she was floating around the dorms when he/she heard yelling. Staff
C said Resident #2 was in the hallway when Resident #1 made it into Resident #2's room. Staff C
said it was a "mad rush" between residents and staff going to the room. Staff C said when he/she
made it in the room, he/she saw Resident #2, #3, and #4 beating on Resident #1. Staff C stated
that he/she grabbed the shoulder of Resident #3 while Staff A was shielding Resident #1. Staff C
said Resident #3 was able to break free and kick Resident #1. Staff C said Staff B came in the
room after having some trouble entering due to residents blocking the doorway. Staff C said Staff
B was able to get Resident #4 to leave the room. Staff C said he/she didn't know the cause of the
fight and did not know there was tension going on that day. Staff C said he/she was with a group
of residents earlier that day when Resident #1 accidentally hit one of the residents with a stick.
Staff C said he/she was told later that this was the cause of the tension throughout the day. Staff
C recalled that there were approximately 27-30 residents present on the day of the incident and
there were 4 staff members assigned to that dorm. Staff C said he/she is not sure if all four staff
members were present, but one could have been administering medication at that time.
Page 3 of 11
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and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
Interview with Resident #2 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:15 pm. Resident #2 stated that
he/she doesn't feel like staff did their job, because it took staff 5 minutes to intervene with the
fight. Resident #2 reported that Resident #1 started the fight by coming after him/her. Resident #2
said Resident #1 charged at him/her and there was no staff around. Resident #2 said Resident #1
struck first and he/she doesn't remember what happened next. Resident #2 said he/she doesn't
remember how the fight ended because he/she "pretty much blacked out."
Interview with Resident #4 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:25 pm. Resident #4 did report that
staff could have done more because they knew Resident #1 was "heated" that day, but they just
let everything unfold.
Interview with Resident #3 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:29 pm. Resident #3 stated that the
day of the incident his/her roommate, Resident #5, came to him/her and said he/she was afraid
that Resident #1 would kill him/her. Resident #3 said later that night he/she and Resident #2
asked Resident #1 why was he/she threatening Resident #5. Resident #3 said he/she was in
Resident #4's room when he/she heard a crash and screaming. Resident #3 said he/she saw
Resident #1 run by the room. Resident #3 said someone said that Resident #1 just broke a
window and was trying to attack Resident #2. Resident #3 said Resident #2 is one of his/her best
friends and he/she thought about Resident #1's threats to others. Resident #3 said he/she was
afraid that Resident #1 would injure Resident #2. Resident #1 said he/she was thinking that
Resident #1 had a piece of glass from the broken window. Resident #3 then admitted that he/she
pushed Resident #1 away from Resident #2 and Resident #1 turned around and hit him/her.
Resident #3 said he/she got angry and hit Resident #1 multiple times. Resident #3 said staff
intervened when Resident #1 was on the floor knocked out. Resident #3 said Staff B was
watching at the door, and Staff C had his/her arm around Resident #3's body. Resident #3 said
his/her arms were by his/her side in the hold by Staff C. Resident #3 indicated he/she stopped
fighting at that point. Resident #3 said it could have been prevented because staff knew Resident
#1 was angry that day. Resident #3 said the counselor talked with Resident #5 and told him/her
that Resident #1 threatened to kill him/her. Resident #3 said he/she is not sure how many staff
members were present this day or how long it took Staff A to enter the room.
Interview with Staff B was conducted on 6/29/2010 at 2:50 pm. Staff B reported that all day there
were rumors about Resident #1 wanting to beat up Resident #5 and that Resident #5's friends
went into Resident #1's room and asked why he/she was threatening Resident #5. Staff B
reported that Resident #1 got angry and Staff A tried to speak with Resident #1. Staff B indicated
that Resident #1 threw a chair at the window and Staff B was standing in the doorway. Staff B
Page 4 of 11
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Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

said Resident #1 then came out of the room forcefully and pointed at Resident #2. Staff B
indicated that Resident #1 and #2 went into the room and Staff A and B ran down the hallway
after them. Staff B said the other residents were there and Staff B stood over Resident #1. Staff B
reported that Resident #3 and #4 were in the room kicking Resident #1. Staff B said she/he went
behind Resident #4 and took him/her by the arm. Staff B said Resident #4 left the room. Staff B
said she/he doesn't know what Staff C was doing because everything happened so quickly. Staff
B said she/he doesn't think that Staff C physically restrained anyone. Staff B said she/he did not
use a TACT2 restraint, she/he just took Resident #4 by the arm to escort out the room. Staff B
said Resident #4 wasn't fighting back. Staff B said Resident #4 was the only one she/he
physically touched. Staff B reported that Resident #4 is his/her size and has a good rapport with
him/her, so it was easier to get Resident #4 out of the room. Staff B said Resident #3 followed
and then Resident #2 exited the room. Staff B said Staff A got Resident #1 out of the room. Staff B
indicated that there were about 35 residents total in the dorm this day. Staff B said there were 3
staff members in the room. Staff B said one staff member was administering medication with
about 10 other residents. Staff B said 2 hours before the actual fight, a resident approached a
counselor and said it might be a fight and Resident #1 should be monitored. Staff B said Resident
#1's counselor told the leader of the reflections group (where Resident #1 was located at the
time). Staff B said the group leader sent Resident #5 off campus to keep his/her separated from
Resident #1. Staff B reported that Staff A was waiting to speak with Resident #1 after the
reflections group. Staff B reported that Resident #1 was supervised close that day, but by the
time he/she got into the dorms he/she was beyond calming. Staff B reiterated that one staff
member was dispensing medication at the time of the fight and one staff member was monitoring
the residents that were waiting for medication. Staff B said she/he did not have to physically
restrain anyone. Staff B stated that the ratio is typically 4 staff to 30 residents, but sometimes
there are just 3 staff members. Staff B said as far as she/he knew, staff was talking about
monitoring Resident #1 that day. Staff B said she/he was standing in the doorway of the room
when Resident #1 came out forcefully, but due to the size difference, she/he moved and could
only follow Resident #1. Staff B said the incident happened fast and the residents moved toward
the room quickly. Staff B said the residents wouldn't move and hs/he had to push his/her way
through the door to enter the room. Staff B said the fight started about 30 seconds before she/he
entered the room.
Page 5 of 11
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Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Result
R 1003 290-2-5-.10(b) Assessment and Planning.
SS=C
A service and room, board and watchful oversight plan shall be developed by the child's Human Services
Professional in concert with the child's primary Child Care Worker, meaning the worker who has responsibility for
supervision of the child in the living
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to have completed Service, Room,
Board, and Watchful Oversight plans to include activities to be followed by staff in pursuit of
stated goals and objectives for two of four plans reviewed.
Findings Include
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Resident #1's Individual Service Plan, dated 5/11/2010,
revealed that the plan did not include activities to be followed by staff in pursuit of stated goals
and objectives. Resident #1 was admitted nearly two months ago.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Resident #4's Individual Service Plan, dated 2/11/2010,
revealed that the plan did not include activities to be followed by staff in pursuit of stated goals
and objectives. Resident #4 was admitted nine months ago.
During interview with Staff D on 6/28/2010 at 4:56 pm, he/she acknowledged the findings.
This rule was previously cited on 12/10/2009 and 12/3/2008.
Page 6 of 11
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Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

R 1011 290-2-5-.10(d) Assessment and Planning.
SS=F
The service and room, board and watchful oversight plan shall be updated by the Human Services Professional at
a minimum of every six months and pertinent progress notes and data shall be incorporated in the plan to
measure attainment of stated goals and
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
****Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that the Service
Room, Board, and Watchful Oversight Plan is updated by the Human Services Professional at a
minimum of every six months for one of four files reviewed.
Findings Include
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Resident #2's individual Service Plan, dated 10/30/2009,
revealed that the plan is outdated. Resident #2 was admitted over eight months ago.
During interview with Staff D on 7/16/2010 at 2:42 pm, he/she acknowledged the findings after
he/she checked the agency's data base for the current plan.
This rule was previously cited on 12/10/2009 and 12/3/2008.
R 1402 290-2-5-.14(1)(b)2. Behavior Management.
SS=D
Such Behavior management policies and procedures shall incorporate the following minimum requirements: ...
Page 7 of 11
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Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

2. Behavior management shall be limited to the least restrictive appropriate method, as described in the child's
service plan pursuant to Rule
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that behavior
management is limited to the least restrictive appropriate method, as described in the child's
Room, Board, and Watchful Oversight Plan and in accordance with the prohibitions as specified
in the rules and regulations.
Findings Include
Interview with Resident #2 was conducted on 6/2820/2010 at 3:15 pm. Resident #2 said he/she
doesn't remember what happened during the incident, but he/she knows that he/she was in a
fight. When asked if he/she received a consequence for fighting, Resident #2 indicated that staff
sent him/her to the wilderness intervention program for 8 days.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Resident #2's Individual Service Plan, dated 10/30/2009, did
not reveal that the wilderness intervention program would be used as a behavioral management
method.
Interview with Resident #4 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:25 pm. When asked if he/she
received a consequence for involvement with the physical altercation, Resident #4 said first staff
spoke with him/her then he/she was sent to the wilderness intervention program for 8 days.
Resident #4 reported that the wilderness program is not on campus. It consists of a tavern and
the residents sleep on wooden boards.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Resident #4's Individual Service Plan, dated 2/11/10, did not
reveal that the wilderness intervention program would be used as a behavioral management
method.
Interview with Resident #3 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:29 pm. Resident #3 stated that on
6/10/2010, Resident #5 came to him/her and said he/she was afraid that Resident #1 would kill
him/her. Resident #3 said later that night he/she and Resident #2 asked Resident #1 why was
he/she threatening Resident #5. Resident #3 said he/she was in Resident #4's room when he/she
heard a crash and screaming. Resident #3 said he/she saw Resident #1 run by the room.
Resident #3 said someone said that Resident #1 just broke a window and was trying to attack
Page 8 of 11
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Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results
Resident #2. Resident #3 said Resident #2 is one of his/her best friends and he/she thought about
Resident #1's problems and remembered Resident #1 threatened others. Resident #3 said he/she
was afraid that Resident #1 would injure Resident #2. Resident #1 said he/she was thinking that
Resident #1 had a piece of glass from the broken window. Resident #3 then admitted that he/she
pushed Resident #1 away from Resident #2 and Resident #1 turned around and hit him/her.
Resident #3 said he/she got angry and hit Resident #1 multiple times. Resident #3 said he/she
was sent to the wilderness intervention program and slept on a flat sheet of wood. Resident #3
said he/she was in the wilderness intervention program for 1 week.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 4:00 pm of Resident #3's Individualized Service Plan, dated 4/1/2010, did
not reveal that the wilderness intervention program would be utilized as a behavioral
management method.
During interview with Staff D on 6/28/2010 at 3:46 pm, Surveyor asked about the wilderness
intervention program. Staff D reported that wilderness intervention is used as a behavior
management technique.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 5:00 pm of the agency's Wilderness Intervention Curriculum, revealed a
form labeled "Odds and Ends". This form states the following: "Students are responsible for
maintaining their gear, equipment, and personal hygiene. If students break, lose, or do not
maintain equipment--they may have to do without (Stay within policies and procedures, and
safety). Keep wilderness student off main campus. No student is allowed in the shelter until
completion of Solo." This form also indicates that tents are utilized.
Review on 6/28/2010 at 5:00 pm of the agency's Wilderness Initiative Daily Schedule, revealed
examples of rewards given to residents which includes: extra sleeping pad, pillows. The
schedule dated May 3, 2010 indicates the following: "solo starts at 9:00 pm, students can only
communicate with staff, journal about life goals, and objectives."
Cross reference Tag 840
Page 9 of 11
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Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Result
R 1808 290-2-5-.18(2)(c) Physical Plant and Safety.
SS=D
Each child shall be provided his or her own personal bed and mattress that is no shorter than the child's height
and at least thirty inches wide. Clean sheets, pillows and pillow cases, blankets or bed covering shall be provided
and sheets and pillow case
This Requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Based on record review and staff interview, the agency failed to ensure that each child shall be
provided his/her own personal bed and mattress with pillows, blankets or bed covering.
Findings Include
Review on 6/28/2010 at 5:00 pm of the agency's Wilderness Initiative Daily Schedule, revealed
examples of rewards given to residents which includes extra sleeping pad and pillows.
Interview with Resident #4 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:25 pm. When asked if he/she
received a consequence for involvement with the physical altercation, Resident #4 said that first
staff spoke with him/her then he/she was sent to the wilderness intervention program for 8 days.
Resident #4 reported that the wilderness program is not on the campus. It consists of a tavern
and the residents sleep on wooden boards.
Interview with Resident #3 was conducted on 6/28/2010 at 3:29 pm. Resident #3 stated that on
6/10/2010, he/she pushed Resident #1 away from Resident #2 and Resident #1 turned around and
hit him/her. Resident #3 said he/she got angry and hit Resident #1 multiple times. Resident #3
said he/she was sent to the wilderness intervention program as his/her consequence and slept
on a flat sheet of wood. Resident #3 said he/she was in the wilderness intervention program for 1
week.
R 9999 Closing Comments.
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Statement of Deficiencies
and Plan of Correction
Inspection begin date
Inspection end date:
6/28/2010
7/21/2010
Name of Provider or Supplier
RIDGE CREEK, INC
Street Address, City, State Zip Code
830 HIDDEN LAKE RD
DAHLONEGA, GA 30533
Inspection Results

An exit conference was conducted onsite. There was one rule violation related to self reported
incident #GA00083346. There were four rule violations found during the investigation. The
preliminary report was mailed on 7/12/2010. The plan of correction is due ten days after the
receipt of this report.
Page 11 of 11
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[Whooter]

I reviwed the ORS report. I was a staff at RCS during part of this time frame. Though I did not have a good experience at RCS as an employee, some of the citations are rediculous! Especially in regards to the Wilderness Intervention. First, the students were all provided with a sleeping pad and a down sleeping bag in addition to thermal layers in case it got cold. The students were required to assist in the preparation of food but staff helped with food prep and were provided 3 square meals and two snacks each day. Students were also provided two, one litre water bottles and a were given access to water coolers and were encouraged to fill up many times throughout the day. The Solo was a 24 hour period where students slept in individual tents, closely monitored by staff. Students could not talk to other students but could talk to staff any time they wanted...this was about self-control, learning to delay gratification and having time to reflect about what behaviors they did that got them sent to intervention. Once solo was over the group slept in a group shelter called a Tabin (not a tavern). The beds were indeed metal frames with a wood slab on top...like a box spring. Students had sleeping pads, sleeping bags and their pillows. This may have been one of the most therapeutic things that happened on campus during my short time there. Students had to learn about self-reliance and independant thinking--not following peers who are doing negative behaviors. Each day students engaged in therapeutic groups, community projects and worked on academics and therapeutic assignments and learned how to hold each other accountable. As you can tell i am a big believer in the power of outdoor therapeutic programs! Many students returning from those interventions made huge progress behaviorally even after only 7 days and many of them have continued on that path of sucess. Also know that the interventions occured during warm months.

Though many a shadey thing has happened on that campus the staff members who work directly with the students are good people who during my time there made the best effort they could to support students given their limited training and supports. The biggest limitations to the program are the decision makers and higher-ups in Administration.

 :soapbox:

ok...I will get off my soap box now!

Thats the guy I was talking about.  He doesnt like anyone coming in here with first hand information on programs.



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