Posted on Jun 11, 2024

Child scared after being left in a daycare vanWICHITA FALLS, Texas - Texoma's Homepage, through its news outlet KFDX/KJTL, has shed light on a concerning lawsuit brought against Tadpole Children’s Academy by the parents of a 5-year-old boy. The article by Joshua Hoggard and Larry Statser has brought significant attention to the case, emphasizing the urgent need for childcare accountability and safety.

Incident Details Reported by Texoma’s Homepage

BLF Clients Erick and Alexis Gardea filed a lawsuit on May 24, 2024, in the 30th District Court against Tadpole Children’s Academy, claiming that their son was left unattended in a van parked in a garage after falling asleep during transport from school to the daycare. The incident on September 22, 2023, unfolded when the daycare failed to account for all the children upon unloading the daycare’s van.

According to the lawsuit, the child woke up alone, scared, and in distress. He was found by a passerby banging on the garage doors, trying to get out. The daycare staff neglected to immediately inform the parents, only notifying them when the mother arrived later to pick up her son.

Legal and Emotional Repercussions

The family, being represented by The Button Law Firm, is seeking recovery for damages to cover pain and suffering, mental and emotional distress, medical expenses, and related costs. Our team at The Button Law Firm emphasizes the profound emotional toll on the child and the potential long-term psychological effects.

This isn’t the first time Tadpole Children’s Academy has faced such claims. The lawsuit references a prior incident where another child was left in a van, underscoring potential systemic issues within the daycare's safety protocols.

Compliance and Inspection History

A detailed investigation into Tadpole Children’s Academy’s compliance history reveals a troubling pattern. The daycare has accrued 23 deficiencies over the past five years, including several violations related to child supervision and safety.

Key deficiencies noted include:

  • April 30, 2024: Multiple teachers were found using phones for personal use, and one staff member was observed sleeping on the job.
  • September 21, 2023: The daycare's vehicle lacked an electronic safety alarm, an incident report was not signed by a parent, and a child was left unattended in a vehicle.
  • March 22, 2022: Several safety concerns, such as infants left in bouncers for prolonged periods and improper use of cribs and play yards.

Community and Legal Impact: How The Button Law Firm is Working to Hold Tadpole Children’s Academy Accountable

Texoma's Homepage's coverage has drawn significant attention to this case within the Wichita Falls community, underlining the pressing need for rigorous childcare standards and practices. The publication’s detailed account of the lawsuit and the daycare’s historical compliance issues underscores the broader implications for childcare standards and parental trust.

The Button Law Firm's involvement in the case signifies the critical importance of legal advocacy in ensuring the safety and well-being of children in childcare settings.

This lawsuit not only seeks justice for the Gardea family but also serves as a poignant reminder of the essential standards and vigilant practices required in childcare services. Our team’s dedication to this case underscores our commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring accountability in childcare services, a cause given significant visibility by Texoma's Homepage.

Contact The Button Law Firm for Help After a Daycare Negligence Injury

If your child has been injured due to daycare negligence, The Button Law Firm is here to provide the guidance and support you need. Our experienced team of daycare injury attorneys is committed to fighting for justice for families affected by daycare negligence.

For a free and confidential case evaluation, call us at 214-699-4409, email us at [email protected], or fill out our online contact form. You can also reach out to a member of our team by starting a chat. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and ensure your family’s rights are protected.

Russell Button
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Dallas, Houston, and Midland Texas trial and personal injury lawyer dedicated to securing justice for clients.