RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center
559 Bell St, Ligonier, PA 15658 · Westmoreland County
1 core-safety citation in last 12 months
2 complaint investigations found violations
Keystone STAR 4
RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center is a certified child care center in Ligonier, PA, with capacity for 21 children. It holds a Keystone STAR 4 rating. Since August 2021, Pennsylvania certification staff have inspected it 5 times and confirmed violations in 2 complaint investigations. The state cited 30 violations, 6 of them core-safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep), most often for building & playground safety (6 of 30). 8 citations came in the last 12 months, including 1 on a core-safety topic. Measured by topic-weighted citations per inspection, it is tied for #34 of 85 centers in Westmoreland County and has more citations per inspection than 70% of Pennsylvania certified centers.
Inspection record
More citations than 70% of 4,789 Pennsylvania certified centers, per inspection, weighted by topic. More citations than most
Tied for #34 of 85 centers in Westmoreland County
6
Core-safety citations
24
Other citations
5
Inspections
2
Complaint investigations that found violations
30 citations from 7 state visits since Aug 16, 2021 · 8 in the last 12 months · last inspected Nov 5, 2025
Every state visit
Violation found
No violation
Top row: inspections · bottom row: complaint investigations, self-reported incidents and other visits
What inspectors cited most
Building & playground safety
6
Health & medication
5
Records & paperwork
5
Training & qualifications
4
Caregiver conduct
3
Background checks
3
Food & feeding
2
Emergency preparedness
1
Transportation
1
Citations, newest first
No physical punishment 55 Pa. Code §3270.113(b)
Based on interviews with staff, it was reported that Staff #1 applied their hand to a child's mouth to suppress noise during nap time. The stated intent was to maintain a quiet environment for the other sleeping children.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 2, 2026): “The staff that placed their hand over the child's mouth is no longer employed with the agency. The staff was suspended pending investigation and terminated upon completion of the investigation. (CORRECTION DATE: 03/04/26) A policy has been created that prohibits the use of physical punishment…”
Citation
Nov 5, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Handwashing signs 55 Pa. Code §3270.82(h)
It was observed that there wasn't a handwashing sign posted above the toilet and the sink in the girl's bathroom.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 18, 2025): “Printed and posted new signs above sink and toilet areas.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Lidded waste receptacles 55 Pa. Code §3270.82(i)
It was observed that the garbage can in the girl's restroom was lacking a lid.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 12, 2025): “Bought new trash can with lid and placed in the stall.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2025
Inspection
Health & medication
Toddler/preschool: updated health report every 12 months/Initial and subsequent health reports 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(b)(2)/3270.182(1)
The file for Child #1, who is an older toddler, contained a health assessment dated 5/29/24, which is more than 12 months ago.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 18, 2025): “Parent was contacted and they faxed over and updated health report.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2025
Inspection
Health & medication
Name on bottle 55 Pa. Code §3270.133(3)
There was a box of teething tablets in the locked medicine box that was lacking the name of the child who they are intended for.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 18, 2025): “When receiving medication from parents name will be placed on box at drop off.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2025
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Every 60 days 55 Pa. Code §3270.94(a)(1)
The fire drill log on file at facility listed dated of fire drills as 7/25/25 and 9/29/25 which are more than 60 days between drills.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 18, 2025): “Since our location is inside a school we do follow the school fire drill schedule so during the summer we will make sure to do our own fire drill to make sure there is not a gap longer than 60 days.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2025
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Parent home/work address, phone 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(3)
The emergency contact form on file for Child #1 was lacking the home telephone number as well as the work addresses and telephone numbers of the enrolling parent.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 18, 2025): “Parent for child 1 were updated emergency contact form information.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2025
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Insurance coverage information 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(6)
The emergency contact form for Child #1 was lacking the health insurance policy number and for Child #2 was lacking the health insurance coverage and policy number.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 18, 2025): “Parent of child 1 and child 2 were contacted via cell phone for the needed health insurance information. With their permission this information was then added to emergency contact forms.”
No physical punishment 55 Pa. Code §3270.113(b)
*Based on information that was received during staff interviews on 11/24/2024 it was determined during lunchtime, Staff person #1 stood behind a young toddler and with her left hand on the left side of the child's neck (ear area) Staff Person #1 used a form of physical punishment by bracing the child's head against her legs and against the wishes of the child.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Apr 30, 2025): “The legal entity (SHCS) will have at least 3 monthly staff meetings. At each of the staff meetings, we will set aside time to review and discuss the facility's previous regulatory non-compliance items documented on the inspection summary related to 3270.113(b) and 3720.162(d). At each of the staff…”
No physical punishment 55 Pa. Code §3270.113(b)
Based on information that was received during staff interviews on 11/24/2024 it was determined during lunchtime, Staff person #1 stood behind a young toddler and with her left hand on the left side of the child's neck (ear area) Staff Person #1 used a form of physical punishment by bracing the child's head against her legs and against the wishes of the child.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Apr 30, 2025): “Provider will retrain and ensure no physical punishment or spanking occur in accordance with PA chapter code 3270.113(b)”
Show 20 older citations
Citation
Nov 25, 2024
Complaint investigation
Food & feeding
Not forced to eat 55 Pa. Code §3270.162(d)
**Based on information that was received during staff interviews on 11/24/2024 Staff Person #1 placed her left hand on the left side of the child's neck (ear area) stood behind the child and braced his head against her legs. Staff Person #1 grabbed the child's right hand with her right hand, grabbed the fork, poked a cut up meatball and forced it into the child's mouth and against the wishes of the child.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Apr 30, 2025): “Provider will retrain and ensure a child will not be forced to eat food in accordance with PA Chapter Code 3270.162(d).”
Citation
Nov 25, 2024
Complaint investigation
Food & feeding
Not forced to eat 55 Pa. Code §3270.162(d)
Based on information that was received during staff interviews on 11/24/2024 Staff Person #1 placed her left hand on the left side of the child's neck (ear area) stood behind the child and braced his head against her legs. Staff Person #1 grabbed the child's right hand with her right hand, grabbed the fork, poked a cut up meatball and forced it into the child's mouth and against the wishes of the child.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Apr 30, 2025): “Staff Person #1 will take a minimum of 3 hours of online training pertaining to the use of physical punishment and/or the effects of forcing a child to eat. The proof of the training will be submitted upon completion.”
Comply with CPSL/CPSL information 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)/3270.192(4)
The file for Staff Person #2 included State Police Clearances dated 6/8/19 and 8/23/24, and Child Abuse Clearances dated 6/11/19 and 9/5/24, which are both more than 60 months apart.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Dec 3, 2024): “Staff Person #2 state police and child abuse clearances have been updated and in the file.”
Citation
Nov 19, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Handwashing signs 55 Pa. Code §3270.82(h)
It was observed that the training chair that was in the diapering area was lacking a handwashing sign.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Dec 3, 2024): “Sign was added right about diapering area on site with inspector.”
Citation
Nov 19, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Clean and good repair 55 Pa. Code §3270.102(a)
It was observed that the foam climbers that were in the outside play space were peeling and worn and not in good repair.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Dec 3, 2024): “Foam climbers were disposed of on site.”
Citation
Nov 19, 2024
Inspection
Health & medication
12 months prior to service and every 24 months thereafter/Health assessment, TB test 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(a)/3270.192(3)
The two most recent health assessments on file for Staff Person #1 are dated 8/15/21 and 9/9/23 which are more than 24 months apart.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Dec 3, 2024): “Staff Person #1 file has been updated and corrected”
Citation
Nov 8, 2023
Inspection
Building & playground safety
General Health and Safety 55 Pa. Code §3270.21
In the Room 11, beneath the chalkboard near the bottom of the floor, was peeling plaster.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 8, 2023): “This citation was cited, corrected and repaired during the inspection.”
Citation
Nov 8, 2023
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Health and Safety Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)
Staff person #1 had not completed the following required pre-service training within 90 days of their date of hire (see LIS code sheet): Pediatric First-Aid/Pediatric CPR training (dated 02/18/2022).
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 8, 2023): “This citation was cited and corrected with a Pediatric First Aid/Pediatric CPR training dated: 02/18/2022.”
Comply with CPSL 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)
The two most recent Child Abuse Clearances for Staff #1 were dated more than 60 months apart.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 13, 2023): “Staff person #1 has an up to date Child Abuse clearance and it is on file.”
Citation
Nov 17, 2022
Inspection
Health & medication
Health information/ACIP recommended immunization record 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(a)/3270.131(e)
The Initial Child Health Report for Children #2, enrolled for more than 60 days, was lacking from the child file.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 13, 2023): “Child #2 has up to date Child Health Report on file.”
Citation
Nov 17, 2022
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Health and Safety Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)
Staff person #1 completed Pediatric First Aid/Pediatric CPR on 05/27/2022 but was not within 90 days of hire.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 13, 2023): “Staff Person #1 has completed First Aid and CPR certificate is on file.”
Citation
Nov 17, 2022
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Comply with CPSL/Exp, educ., training at facility 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)/3270.192(2)(iii)
Mandated Reporter Training for Staff #1 was dated more than 60 months apart.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 13, 2023): “Staff member 1 has completed mandated reporter training and has it on file”
Citation
Nov 17, 2022
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Consent for administration of minor first-aid required prior to admission 55 Pa. Code §3270.182(5)
The Emergency Contact Forms for Child #1 and #3 lacked a signature for "Consent for Minor First Aid."
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 13, 2023): “Child #1 and Child #3 have current signatures on consent for a minor first aid on file.”
Comply with CPSL 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)
The file for Facility Person #2, who has resided outside of Pennsylvania in the last 5 years, lacked required out of state clearances. The file for Facility Person #2 lacked a request for their NSOR Certificate prior to starting in a child care taking position. A completed NSOR was not on file at the time of starting at the facility.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 19, 2021): “In accordance with code 3270.32(a) facility person #2, who has resided outside of Pennsylvania in the last 5 years, updated out of state clearances. Date resolved 11/19/2021. Facility person #2 also provided the request for their NSOR Certificate.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2021
Inspection
Health & medication
Exemption documentation from parent/guardian 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(e)(1)
The immunization record on file for Child #1 lacked documentation that the child had received their 12-15 month Pneumococcal vaccination.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 3, 2022): “In accordance with code 3270.131(e)(1) the immunization record for child #1 will be resolved during the child's next wellness exam scheduled 01/24/2022. Letter from physician sent 11/09/2021 stating child #1 will receive their 12-15 month pneumococcal vaccination during the child's wellness exam.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2021
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Devices must be compliant/Director or designated staff person ensure compliance 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(a)/3270.95(b)
The facility lacked proof of purchase of the interconnected fire system currently in place at the Elementary School where the facility is located.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 16, 2022): “In accordance with code 3270.95(a)/3270.95(b) the facility provided Attestation Statement regarding the purchase of the interconnected fire system currently in place at the Elementary School where the facility is located. Date resolved 11/24/2021”
Citation
Nov 5, 2021
Inspection
Transportation
Pick-up and drop-off points 55 Pa. Code §3270.171(a)
The pick up and drop off procedures were not posted in a conspicuous location.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 17, 2021): “In accordance with code 3270.171(a) pick up and drop off procedures are posted in a conspicuous location.”
Citation
Nov 5, 2021
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Health and Safety Training/Health and Safety Training - Pediatric First Aid and CPR 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)/3270.31(f)(10)
The file's for Facility Person's #1 and #2 lacked verification that they had participated in Pediatric First Aid and CPR within 90 days of hire.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 21, 2022): “In accordance with code 3270.31(f)/3270.31(f)(10) facility person's #1 and #2 are awaiting verification of CPR/First Aid Training class provided by DHS representative. Last date of communication was via email”
Citation
Nov 5, 2021
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Name/address/phone release person 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(7)
The emergency contact form for Child #2 lacked the complete address for one of the release persons listed.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 3, 2022): “In accordance with code 3270.124(b)(7) emergency contact form for child #2 updated with complete address for one of the release persons listed. Date resolved 11/09/2021”
Citation
Nov 5, 2021
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Exp, educ., training prior to facility 55 Pa. Code §3270.192(2)(ii)
The file for Facility Person #1 lacked verification of one year experience to qualify them for the position they were hired to perform.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 3, 2022): “In accordance with code 3270.192(2)(ii) the file for facility person #1 was updated with their verification of one year experience to qualify them for the position they were hired to perform.”
“Core safety” marks citations about supervision and staff ratios, discipline and caregiver conduct, background checks, child protection and safe sleep, the topics our score weights most. Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity. “Follow-up” marks a violation re-cited at a follow-up visit, counted once. How scores work.
Complaint investigations and reported incidents
Violation found
Mar 3, 2026
Complaint investigation
1 violation cited, listed under Citations.
Violation found
Nov 25, 2024
Complaint investigation
4 violations cited, listed under Citations.
Pennsylvania’s search lists complaint investigations in which the state found at least one violation (“verified complaints”). It does not say what a complaint alleged, or whether every violation relates to it. Incident investigations look into something that happened at the center; self-reported violations are ones the center reported to the state itself.
Daily rates
| Age group | Full time, per day | Part time, per day |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn (Under 6 Weeks) | $51.20 | $41.00 |
| Infant (6 Weeks-12 mos.) | $51.20 | $41.00 |
| Young Toddler (13-24 mos.) | $49.00 | $41.00 |
| Older Toddler (25-36 mos.) | $49.00 | $39.00 |
The daily price the center lists in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search for families paying privately. The state notes that rates are subject to change and programs don’t have to share them, so confirm with the center. See what daycare costs in Pennsylvania.
About this center
Capacity
21 children
Certificate status
Regular
Certificate valid through
Feb 21, 2027
Programs
Early Head Start
Operator
Seton Hill Child Services INC
Hours
Monday–Friday 7:00 AM–4:00 PM How Pennsylvania centers’ hours compare
Phone
(724) 238-8100
State certificate #
CER-00248126
Common questions
Has RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center had any serious violations?
Pennsylvania cited 6 violations since 2021 on the topics Daycare Record treats as core safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep). The most recent, on Mar 3, 2026 (caregiver conduct): “Based on interviews with staff, it was reported that Staff #1 applied their hand to a child's mouth to suppress noise during nap time. The stated intent was to maintain a quiet environment for the other sleeping…” Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; each citation is listed in full above.
Have there been complaints about RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center?
Pennsylvania lists 2 complaint investigations since 2021 in which it found at least one violation; the violations are listed above. Its search shows these “verified complaints” but not what a complaint alleged, or whether every violation relates to it.
What is RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center’s Keystone STARS rating?
STAR 4, effective Sep 16, 2025. Keystone STARS is Pennsylvania’s quality rating program for child care, from STAR 1 to STAR 4. It measures program quality, not inspection results, so read both.
How does RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center compare with other daycares in Westmoreland County?
It is tied for #34 of 85 centers in Westmoreland County by topic-weighted citations per inspection, and has more citations per inspection than 70% of Pennsylvania certified centers with enough inspection history to compare.
When was RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center last inspected?
Nov 5, 2025 (renewal). The state cited at least one violation during that visit.
How much does RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center cost?
It reported full-time daily rates of $51.20 for newborn, $51.20 for infant, $49.00 for young toddler, $49.00 for older toddler in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search. Rates can change; confirm with the center.
Who runs RK Mellon Early Care and Education Center?
The legal entity on its Pennsylvania certificate is Seton Hill Child Services INC.
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Citations are quoted from Pennsylvania Department of Human Services inspection records (Office of Child Development and Early Learning, Bureau of Certification Services), including each finding and the center’s plan of correction. Rule numbers refer mostly to 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3270, the rules for child care centers; a few cite Chapter 20, which covers every certified facility. Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; the “core safety” label and the score are Daycare Record’s.
To check the state’s own record, search the center’s name on COMPASS Child Care Provider Search and open its inspection history. Data refreshed Oct 16, 2026.
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