State Violations and Workplace Allegations Shake California Dental Hygiene Program

A California dental hygiene program is facing heightened scrutiny after a state investigation identified multiple violations that placed the program on probation, while current and former faculty, staff, and students have raised concerns about the program’s leadership and learning environment.

The Cabrillo College dental hygiene program was placed on a 3-year probation following a state review that cited eight compliance violations. Among the issues identified were inadequate staffing levels within the clinic, deficiencies that could affect the program’s ability to maintain the standards required for educating future dental hygienists.

Former program director Heather Lawler, RDH, MSDH, who served from 2021 to 2025, described what she characterized as an increasingly toxic workplace. She alleged that administrators excluded her from meetings, delayed necessary equipment repairs, discouraged reporting concerns, and directed students and staff to disregard portions of the program’s student handbook. Several current and former faculty members and staff interviewed by Santa Cruz Local reported similar concerns, including allegations of retaliation against individuals who raised questions about compliance with state regulations.

Students also described an environment in which reports of misconduct among classmates were not consistently addressed, contributing to uncertainty and tension within the cohort. Some former students said they felt discouraged from reporting concerns after meetings with administrators regarding the complaint process.

According to state officials, Cabrillo College has been working diligently to correct the violations, including hiring additional faculty and providing documentation demonstrating progress. Importantly, the program’s 2025 graduates successfully completed all educational requirements and remain eligible to apply for California dental hygiene licensure. As the profession continues to face workforce shortages, maintaining high-quality dental hygiene education remains critical to preparing competent clinicians and protecting public trust. Click here to read more.