Supervision
Name of Operation: MONTESSORI FOOTPRINTS LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 11000861 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2026 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 6/3/2026 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 271 Time In: 10:19 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Krysty Marcus, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Krysty Marcus, Administrator, were available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/23/2025. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff / Child Ratio CPR / First Aid Special Training CBC Qualification ITS – SIDS Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Products Storage of Medication General Safety Discipline Adequate / Approved Space Program Records License Posted Permit Restrictions Permit type – One (1) Star Rated License, issued 2/19/2017 Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, and meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 5/20/2026. The last shelter in place drill was practiced on 3/25/2026. Next drill is due by 6/25/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 5/10/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/4/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 1/14/2026 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was seventy-seven percent (77%) as of 6/2/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Limited Liability Corporation, Montessori Footprints, LLC, is current/active as of 6/2/2026. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Ms. Marcus. Space #1 the group of three- to five-year- olds was located in Space 6 practicing for their upcoming graduation. At 10:26 a.m., the group transitioned to their classroom, where children washed their hands and prepared for snack time. After snack concluded, the group transitioned outdoors. At 11:00 a.m., the children arrived on the playground for gross motor play, engaging with sand digging, the climber, swings, balls, and push toys. Space #2 the group of two- to three-year-old children were outdoors engaged in gross motor play. Children interacted with a variety of materials, including trikes, balls, steppers, a Little Tikes cottage, and push toys. The group demonstrated active engagement and exploration throughout the outdoor environment. The staff members were frequently moving about the outdoor area actively supervising the children. Space #3 the group of one to two year old children were outdoors engaged in gross motor play, including digging in sand, playing with balls, and using the Little Tikes climber. Staff were actively moving throughout the space and remained engaged with the children. While monitoring indoors, the refrigerator temperature was recorded at 50°F. A follow up temperature check at 12:50 p.m. showed a reading of 48°F, and 2:15p 46°F. We discussed checking the refrigerator seal for gaps or wear, reduce door openings, ensure the unit is not overloaded, which restricts airflow, consider thermometer placement. The center of the shelves give the most accurate reading, if temperatures remain above 45°F, consider replacing the refrigerator. Space #4 the group of three-year-old children were cleaning up to transition to group time. After group time, the group transitioned outdoors. While monitoring the classroom, one (1) red instant cold pack containing gel beads was observed on site in the first aid bag. The product label indicated that the gel beads were non toxic, but the warning label stated that the contents may pose a choking hazard if swallowed. Staff were reminded that hazardous materials, including items with choking risk warnings, must be removed from use. Guidance was provided on ensuring: Proper storage of first aid materials, Review of product labels for potential risks, Staff awareness of choking hazards even when items are labeled non toxic. One (1) emergency medication that expired 5/2026. During our discussion, I reiterated that the medication needed to be sent home today. The new staff member explained that they were following the parent’s request to keep the expired medication on site until the child’s last day, as the family is moving out of the country. I clarified that while we understand the parent’s preference, child care rules require that expired medication be returned to the parent within seventy two (72) hours of expiration. Keeping expired medication on-site presents a liability risk, including the possibility of accidental use during an incident. For this reason, we must follow child care rules, requirements, and ensure the medication is returned promptly. The program was reminded to ensure: medication return procedures are followed consistently, documentation of expired medication is completed, staff training includes clear instruction on child care requirements regarding medication. Space #5 the group of three- to five-year-olds was in Space 6 practicing for upcoming graduation. At 10:26 a.m., the group transitioned to their classroom and began group time. Following group time, the children washed their hands and transitioned to snack. After snack concluded, the group prepared to go outside. Space #6, the multi purpose area, was observed in use by two classrooms, Space 1 and Space, as they practiced for their graduation and end of year program. A total of twenty four (24) children were present in the space with three (3) staff members. The children were gathered in the center of the room practicing their songs. The licensed capacity for Space #6 is thirteen (13) children at one time. The number of children present exceeded the approved capacity for this room. Technical assistance was provided to review space capacity requirements and to discuss alternative options for program practice. Staff were advised that children will need to rehearse either in their assigned classroom spaces or outdoors to ensure the program remains in compliance and does not exceed the room’s capacity. Additional guidance included: Monitoring room usage to prevent over capacity situations, Planning special events in a way that aligns with licensing requirements, Staff communication to ensure all team members understand space limitations. Children bring their meals and snacks from home Limited monitoring of staff files was conducted for the purpose of reviewing training regarding CPR/First Aid, EPR, Playground Safety, ITS-SIDS, Special Training including Health and Safety Training and Criminal Background Checks. A discussion was held regarding the status of Mr. Marcus’s criminal background check, which has expired. Krysty Marcus, Administrator reported that Mr. Marcus has been unable to complete the renewal due to ongoing health issues. The administrator further stated that Mr. Marcus does not come on site and has not been present at the facility since 2021. Ms. Marcus reported that her sister holds legal power of attorney for Mr. Marcus. We discussed the need to consult legal counsel for guidance regarding the corporation’s ownership structure and the individuals listed on the Secretary of State records. Following consultation with legal counsel, the administrator will contact me to provide an update on the guidance received and any required next steps. Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS): The program wishes to continue operating as a one (1) star program and will notify me if and when they would like to pursue the QRIS modernization pathways to the stars. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCDEE-0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this facility. For specific rule references, refer to Chapter 110 General Statues Child Care Facilities, Chapter nine (9) Child Care Rule (10A NCAC 09) and Section 2800 Sanitation of Child Care Center (15A NCAC 18A) for additional information. Updated copies of these rules can be located on our website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. Space #3, the refrigerator temperature was recorded at 50°F. A follow up temperature check at 12:50 p.m. showed a reading of 48°F, and 2:15p 46°F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Space #4, one (1) red instant cold pack containing gel beads was observed on site in the first aid bag. The product label indicated that the gel beads were non toxic, but the warning label stated that the contents may pose a choking hazard if swallowed. .2820(b) 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 1 and Space 5 children were combine in space 6 practicing for graduation totaling twenty-four (24) children exceeding the space capacity for space 6. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- Space #3, the refrigerator temperature was recorded at 50°F. A follow up temperature check at 12:50 p.m. showed a reading of 48°F, and 2:15p 46°F. We discussed checking the refrigerator seal for gaps or wear, reduce door openings, ensure the unit is not overloaded, which restricts airflow, consider thermometer placement. The center of the shelves give the most accurate reading, if temperatures remain above 45°F, consider replacing the refrigerator. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2806(j)(2) Item 840- Space #4, one (1) red instant cold pack containing gel beads was observed on site in the first aid bag. The product label indicated that the gel beads were non toxic, but the warning label stated that the contents may pose a choking hazard if swallowed. The administrator discarded the cold pack during the visit. Staff were reminded that hazardous materials, including items with choking risk warnings, must be removed from use. Guidance was provided on ensuring: Proper storage of first aid materials, Review of product labels for potential risks, Staff awareness of choking hazards even when items are labeled non toxic. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 1245- Space #6, the multi purpose area, was observed in use by two classrooms, Space 1 and Space 5, as they practiced for their graduation and end of year program. A total of twenty four (24) children were present in the space with three (3) staff members. The children were gathered in the center of the room practicing their songs. The licensed capacity for Space #6 is thirteen (13) children at one time. The number of children present exceeded the approved capacity for this room. Technical assistance was provided to review space capacity requirements and to discuss alternative options for program practice. Staff were advised that children will need to rehearse either in their assigned classroom spaces or outdoors to ensure the program remains in compliance and does not exceed the room’s capacity. Additional guidance included: Monitoring room usage to prevent over capacity situations, Planning special events in a way that aligns with licensing requirements, Staff communication to ensure all team members understand space limitations. Rule Reference: .2809(a) Achieving Compliance: A follow-up visit will be conducted to verify compliance of item 1245 indoor space capacity. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. Send me a letter of compliance describing in detail specifically how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. Include the following: • Facility name • Facility ID# • Name and position of individual submitting compliance statement • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 6/16/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) to: karla.terry@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Karla Terry PO Box 552 Ellenboro, NC 28040 Please call me at 828-200-9952, or email [email protected], if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive it by the due date listed above. You will need to mail a compliance statement three to five days prior to the due date to ensure receipt is within the designated timeline. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Consultation is provided as follows: -We reviewed and discussed discarding and returning medications within seventy-two (72) hours. We understand the parent’s preference, however, child care rules require that expired medication be returned to the parent within seventy two (72) hours of expiration. Keeping expired medication on-site presents a liability risk, including the possibility of accidental use during an incident. For this reason, we must follow child care rules, requirements, and ensure the medication is returned promptly. It is recommended that any expired medication be sent home prior to the seventy-two (72) hour deadline to ensure timely compliance. The Healthy Social Behaviors Project (HSB) helpline for managing challenging behaviors telephone number (1-888-600-1685 Option 1), online portal, and Talk to the Expert space in the Social-Emotional Connections is available. Healthy Social Behaviors Project (HSB) now have an email for requesting HSB Coaching or training: [email protected]. Lead Paint and Asbestos Testing- In April 2023, North Carolina enacted final rules 10A NCAC 41C .1001-1007 requiring all public schools and child care facilities to: Test for lead in drinking/cooking water (.1005 and .2816), Identify lead-based paint hazards (.1004), Identify asbestos hazards (.1003), Mitigate or restrict access to any identified hazards. Testing is required to be completed by May 31, 2025. New and terminated staff notification requirement: As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. If you elect to change and/or alter any previously approved spaces used by children as indicated on the approved indoor and outdoor floor plan, you will need to contact me within thirty (30) days prior to the change. Failure to notify a DCDEE representative may result in a violation of child care requirements. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) states “Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division.” As child care providers, you are a vital part in the prevention and intervention of child maltreatment! You may see potential indicators of maltreatment in the children under your care. Some children may even be more likely to disclose maltreatment to a child care provider than to a family member. It is required that all providers are aware of maltreatment indicators and to report any suspicions of maltreatment. Follow child care rules related to child maltreatment training: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(g) and 10A NCAC 09 .1703(a)(5) states the child care administrator, operator, and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submit an official transcript (if applicable) and apply for a position for evaluation. This should be completed immediately upon hiring or at the latest, by the end of the six-week orientation process. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in the operator not complying with the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within 120 days. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within 120 days, the operator shall notify the Division. It is your responsibility to understand the health and safety requirements in child care rule .1102. If the program is out of compliance in accordance with health and safety requirements, Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG), it may affect subsidy funding. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/.It is your responsibility to understand the rules and laws that are applicable your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any monitoring visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and want to be a resource for you. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have questions, please contact me at karla.terry@ dhhs.nc.gov or 828-200-9952, or Bonnie Mathis, Licensing Supervisor, at [email protected]. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times