Verner

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1101 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .2830 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:50 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 compliance during an routine unannounced visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/8/2026. 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 The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine percent (89%) as of 7/6/2026. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 7/6/2026. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/21/2026. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets Head Start ratios. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last fire drill was practiced on 6/25/2026. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 6/26/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 6/29/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The annual fire inspection is due by 7/18/2026. Please reach out to the Fire Marshal to ensure they have you on their schedule. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The program does not provide transportation. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of one to two year olds were preparing for lunch. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. One (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were circulating the playground supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Staff were moving about the playground space supervising the children and engaging in play. While monitoring the classroom, I observed three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in group time. The staff was conducting story time. While monitoring the classroom, I observed two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children were at the table eating lunch. Staff were serving the children and then sat down to supervise the children while they ate. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of infant to one-year-old children were preparing for nap. Staff were assisting the children with calming down to rest. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were outside engaged in gross motor play. Staff were engaging with the children. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. 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. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. 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 were documented during today’s visit : Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. .2820(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. .1101(a) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 721- Walnut outdoor play space, one (1) broken container was located in the sandbox. The administrator removed and discarded the broken container during the visit. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) Item 812- Space #3 (Elm), three (3) uncovered electrical outlets on the power cube on top of the cubbies near the loft. The administrator added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 840- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) container of disinfectant wipes below five (5) feet accessible to children in an unlocked storage space. We discussed ensuring the storage space is locked each time the staff get items from the space. The administrator locked the storage space during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item 847- Space #1 (Cherry), one (1) Aquaphor stick was missing the specific dose. The form stated as much as needed. We discussed for a stick to have 1-2 swipes for the area. The administrator contacted the parents to ask the specific dosage during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)&(6-9) Item 1045- Staff member hired 1/5/2026 did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. First six weeks was due by 2/16/2026 and staff completed the training on 2/23/2026. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1101(a) Item 1805- The child care operator has not notified the Division of eight (8) staff member that were hired at Verner. Rule Reference: 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. 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) 814-6401 and someone will assist you. Item 9995- Space #4 (Balsam), two (2) staff personal bags accessible to the children in an unlocked closet. The administrator and I discussed that the staff bags potentially house hazardous products and the coset door should be locked at all times with a key, magnetic, or combination lock. The administrator moved the bags up five (5) feet in accessible to the children. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(f) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/21/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed when emergency medication is administered by the parent while at the facility, it is best practice to document it on the medication log to track when the child’s next dose is due. -We discussed reviewing the staff medical reports to ensure that the question regarding the applicant is emotionally and physically capable of caring for children on a daily basis is completed. I have seen some during visits that have not been completed and others that does not contain the statement. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .3222 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0607 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2026 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/8/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 316 Time In: 09:29 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance with rated license visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, Bridget Owen, Child Care Consultant, and also signed by Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Stephanie Kelley, Director of Operations, Yusef Shafiq, Center Director was available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/29/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/29/2025. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K, Head Start, and NC Breastfeeding friendly child care designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/17/2025. February 2025 fire drill was not conducted. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 12/8/2025. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/19/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 7/18/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/17/2025 with fourteen (14) demerits for a superior classification. Lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due to be completed by 1/23/2027. Lead paint and asbestos testing was completed on 2/28/2025. The next testing is due to be completed by 2/28/2028. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, we signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. Space #1 (Ginko), a group of an infants were engaged in exploring the room. Two (2) infants were being held by a caregiver and one (1) child was on their cot. While monitoring the classroom, I observed a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Space #2 (Walnut), a group of one-year-old children engaged in were exploring the room engaging in play with puzzles, pop up toys, and books. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper changes, one (1) staff member engaged in play with the children, and one (1) staff member supervising the children. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in eating breakfast at the table. Today’s breakfast consisted of oatmeal, pears, and milk. Staff were sitting with the children engaging in conversations with the children. After breakfast, children washed their hands and transitioned to free play in centers. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) Coppertone sunscreen expired 3/2025. The center director removed the expired Coppertone sunscreen during the visit and replaced it with a current one dated 10/2026. Two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. Space #4 (Balsam) the group of four- to five-year-old children were engaged in free play. After free play the children cleaned up to prepare to go outside. While monitoring the classroom, I observed Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination records on-site for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. THe staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Space #5 (Dogwood), a group of two and three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Tubelo classroom. Space #6 (Tubelo), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with the Dogwood classroom. Space #7 (Cherry), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables with the staff. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey, applesauce, broccoli, corn bread, and milk. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. We discussed potentially removing the space for the license. Ms. Kelley stated that she would have discussion with upper management to see if this is something they would like to pursue. If it is determined that the space would need to be removed from the license, an official letter will need to sent to me. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. We discussed if children use the room on rainy days for indoor gross motor play, the staff need to conduct a environment check prior to being used by the children. To ensure materials are stored appropriately (ex. Hazardous products, plastics, outlets are covered, etc). Space #11, screened in porch was not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. A therapist was working with one (1) child at the table. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. One (1) child's file was monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Rated License Information: Prior to today’s visit, your program operated with a Five (5) Star License earning seven (7) points in the education component, six (6) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point. Your three-year re-assessment was due by 8/2022. You submitted your application for re-assessment during today’s visit on 1/8/2026. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: Accreditation and Head Start pathway. The Head Start and Early Head Start federal award was awarded to Verner, on 9/1/2025 for budget period 9/1/2025 to 8/31/2026. The facility maintains a 1:4 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 8 for infant, toddlers, and twos, 1:8 staff/child ratio with a maximum group size of 16 for preschoolers aligning with Head Start staff/child ratios. The facility information was reviewed and it was noted that the age range on the permit was 0 to 12 years old. However, the facility only serves 0 to 6 years old. We discussed if the age range needs to be changed to submit a formal letter to request an age range change. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 718 Swings did not have surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the surface below beyond the external limits of the equipment. On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. .0605(m)(2) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 898 All electrical appliances were not used in accordance with the manufacturers instruction. Appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, curling irons, irons, coffee pots, and/or their cords were accessible to preschool-age children. Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. .0604(e) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. .0607(e) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 601- The kitchen thermometer on the outside of the refrigerator was not working and a thermometer was unable to be located to determine the temperature of the refrigerator. The kitchen staff added a refrigerator thermometer to the refrigerator during the visit. The temperature was re-checked and was forty-five (45) degrees or below. Rule Reference: 15A NCA 18A .2806(j)(2) Item 718- On the infant and toddler playground, two (2) swings were observed hanging from the wooden structure close to the fence. The fall zone did not extend two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below. The surfacing shall be to the front and rear of the swing. We discussed the swings would need to removed from the infant toddler playground and if used on another playground, the facility would need to ensure the surfacing extends two (2) times the length of the pivot point to the surface below in front and behind the swings. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0605 (m)(2) Item 805- A monthly fire drill for February 2025 was not conducted. We discussed pre-planning all fire drills and documenting them on a calendar as a reminder for administrative staff to know when the drills are to be conducted each month. Once the drill has been completed, ensure that a member completes the Fire/Emergency drill log. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (t) Item 807- Space #4 (Balsam) Guinea pigs on-site without vaccination record on file for review. When I asked the staff about the vaccination records, the staff stated they had just recently purchased the Guinea pigs and did not have a current vaccination record. The staff member stated that she would take the Guinea pigs home with her until the vaccination record could be on file for review. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 812- Space # 3 (Elm) two (2) electrical outlets were uncovered. The center director added a safety outlet plug during the visit. In the hallway outside of the Ginko classroom door, one (1) electrical outlet was uncovered. The center director attempted to add a safety outlet plug but it was determined that a previously used safety outlet plug broke off in the outlet and the center director was unable to add a new outlet cover. The maintenance director was on site and corrected this during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Item 898- Space #1 (Ginko) a pink Revlon hair straightener in the bottom drawer under the bottle warmer area accessible to children. The center director moved the hair straightener to a locked cabinet during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0604(e) Item 1824- Emergency Preparedness and Response plan was not reviewed annually. The last review was completed on 12/17/2024. Ms. Kelley, Director of Operations, completed the annual review of the EPR plan during the visit. An updated copy of the EPR plan was printed during the visit. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0607(e) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/22/2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: - Medication: We discussed ensuring that the medication and the pharmacy label match. -ABCMS: Continue to update the employee roster as new staff are hired and current staff are terminated. 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. 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) 814-6401 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 .3222 (c) If employment-related changes occur at a facility that result in noncompliance with or failure to meet the standards in the Section for the star rating issued, the operator shall correct the noncompliance within six months. If the operator does not correct the noncompliance within six months, the operator shall notify the Division. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0925-346L Visit Date: 9/30/2025 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 9/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 9/30/2025. The facility operates with a five-star license issued on 6/10/2022. The Special Services/Restrictions includes first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K and Head Start approved. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 9/25/2025 and sent to me on 9/25/2025. There is a concern of inadequate nurture and care. Per report, a ten (10) month old was crying and in distress. The staff member jerked the child up under the arms and told them “Hey, we're not doing this today.” The incident was reported to the administrator. During today’s visit, I observed four (4) infants and one (1) one-year-old engaged in playing on the floor with one (1) staff member. Another staff member was present in the room cleaning up from lunch. The staff present were actively supervising the children and meeting the individual needs of the children. While observing in the classroom, I observed that the classroom did not have the safe sleep policy posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. I also observed an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that to be considered locked, the door must have a key, combination, or magnetic lock, or the sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet inaccessible to children. The administrator stated that they will have a lock installed on the door. I stated or the sunscreen can be moved up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to children. I interviewed the administrators and two (2) staff members. The administrators reported they were made aware of this situation and had a meeting earlier this morning. When asked to state what happened on the date the incident occurred, the administrators stated the incident occurred on September 23, 2025, during lunch breaks was immediately reported. One (1) primary caregiver was out of the room on break, and a floater was covering the classroom. During this time, the children were having snack, and several children were crying. One (1) child was having a tough day, and the teacher was trying to encourage the child to remain in their seat. The staff member quickly picked up the child and stated in a not so kind tone, “we’re not doing this today." The administrator met with the teachers and team of floaters to address the need to be grounded and to call for a break if needed. The administrators went on to stated that they have a professional development day coming up on October 13, 2025, and will be addressing areas of concern. One (1) staff member reported that they did blanked out during the time they picked up the child due to numerous children crying. They stated they quickly picked up the child in order to help calm another child. The other staff member in the classroom at the time of the incident stated that there were several children crying and she was attending to a child. She observed the staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Staff files were reviewed during the visit. I monitored the three (3) staff members present the date the incident occurred and the primary classroom staff files. It was determined based on the documentation that the two (2) primary staff do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024, just recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in this classroom, she worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Based on the interviews, and information received, the allegation regarding nurture and care is substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #2 (walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. .0606(b) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” G.S. 110-91(10) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 841- In Space #2 (Walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet or the closet must be locked at all times. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b) Item 892- In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b) Item 902- Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider providing additional training and support for all staff. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children at 828-285-9333, for additional training and guidance regarding appropriate physical interactions with children. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten or bully children. 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) No child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. For purposes of this Rule, "staff" shall mean any regular or substitute caregiver, any volunteer, and any auxiliary personnel, including cooks, secretaries, janitors, maids, or vehicle drivers. The following shall apply at all child care centers: (1) no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking; (2) no child shall be placed in a locked room, closet, or box or be left alone in a room separated from staff; (3) no discipline shall be delegated to another child; (4) no food shall be withheld as punishment or given as a means of reward; (5) no child shall be disciplined for toileting accidents; (6) no child shall be disciplined for not sleeping during rest period; (7) no child shall be disciplined by assigning chores that require contact with or use of hazardous materials, such as cleaning bathrooms, floors, or emptying diaper pails; (8) physical activity, such as running laps and doing push-ups, shall not be withheld as punishment or required as punishment; (9) no child shall be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened, or bullied; and (10) no child shall be restrained as a form of discipline unless the child's safety or the safety of others is at risk. For purposes of this Rule, "restraining" shall mean that a caregiver physically holds a child in a manner that restricts the child's movement, for a minimum amount of time necessary to ensure a safe environment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Rule, no child shall be restrained through the use of heavy objects, including a caregiver's body, or any device such as straps, blankets, car seats, or cribs. (b) Discipline practices shall be age and developmentally appropriate. Item 1831- The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in the older infant classroom, the staff member worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that at least one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f) In centers that are licensed to care for infants, the child care administrator and any child care provider scheduled to work in the infant room shall complete ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training shall be completed within two months of an individual assuming responsibilities in the infant room and every three years thereafter. Child care administrators, as defined in G.S. 110-86(2a), shall complete ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. Completion of ITS-SIDS training shall be included once every three years in the number of hours needed to meet on-going training requirements in this Section. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are adequately attending to the children in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and keeping with the child’s developmental needs per Child Care Rule G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 10/14/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -A staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be assigned to space #2 older infant classroom until the two (2) primary staff members have completed the required ITS-SIDS certification. -I recommend that you reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for training on appropriate nurture and care of children. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0925-346L Visit Date: 9/30/2025 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 9/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 9/30/2025. The facility operates with a five-star license issued on 6/10/2022. The Special Services/Restrictions includes first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K and Head Start approved. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 9/25/2025 and sent to me on 9/25/2025. There is a concern of inadequate nurture and care. Per report, a ten (10) month old was crying and in distress. The staff member jerked the child up under the arms and told them “Hey, we're not doing this today.” The incident was reported to the administrator. During today’s visit, I observed four (4) infants and one (1) one-year-old engaged in playing on the floor with one (1) staff member. Another staff member was present in the room cleaning up from lunch. The staff present were actively supervising the children and meeting the individual needs of the children. While observing in the classroom, I observed that the classroom did not have the safe sleep policy posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. I also observed an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that to be considered locked, the door must have a key, combination, or magnetic lock, or the sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet inaccessible to children. The administrator stated that they will have a lock installed on the door. I stated or the sunscreen can be moved up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to children. I interviewed the administrators and two (2) staff members. The administrators reported they were made aware of this situation and had a meeting earlier this morning. When asked to state what happened on the date the incident occurred, the administrators stated the incident occurred on September 23, 2025, during lunch breaks was immediately reported. One (1) primary caregiver was out of the room on break, and a floater was covering the classroom. During this time, the children were having snack, and several children were crying. One (1) child was having a tough day, and the teacher was trying to encourage the child to remain in their seat. The staff member quickly picked up the child and stated in a not so kind tone, “we’re not doing this today." The administrator met with the teachers and team of floaters to address the need to be grounded and to call for a break if needed. The administrators went on to stated that they have a professional development day coming up on October 13, 2025, and will be addressing areas of concern. One (1) staff member reported that they did blanked out during the time they picked up the child due to numerous children crying. They stated they quickly picked up the child in order to help calm another child. The other staff member in the classroom at the time of the incident stated that there were several children crying and she was attending to a child. She observed the staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Staff files were reviewed during the visit. I monitored the three (3) staff members present the date the incident occurred and the primary classroom staff files. It was determined based on the documentation that the two (2) primary staff do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024, just recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in this classroom, she worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Based on the interviews, and information received, the allegation regarding nurture and care is substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #2 (walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. .0606(b) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” G.S. 110-91(10) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 841- In Space #2 (Walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet or the closet must be locked at all times. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b) Item 892- In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b) Item 902- Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider providing additional training and support for all staff. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children at 828-285-9333, for additional training and guidance regarding appropriate physical interactions with children. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten or bully children. 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) No child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. For purposes of this Rule, "staff" shall mean any regular or substitute caregiver, any volunteer, and any auxiliary personnel, including cooks, secretaries, janitors, maids, or vehicle drivers. The following shall apply at all child care centers: (1) no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking; (2) no child shall be placed in a locked room, closet, or box or be left alone in a room separated from staff; (3) no discipline shall be delegated to another child; (4) no food shall be withheld as punishment or given as a means of reward; (5) no child shall be disciplined for toileting accidents; (6) no child shall be disciplined for not sleeping during rest period; (7) no child shall be disciplined by assigning chores that require contact with or use of hazardous materials, such as cleaning bathrooms, floors, or emptying diaper pails; (8) physical activity, such as running laps and doing push-ups, shall not be withheld as punishment or required as punishment; (9) no child shall be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened, or bullied; and (10) no child shall be restrained as a form of discipline unless the child's safety or the safety of others is at risk. For purposes of this Rule, "restraining" shall mean that a caregiver physically holds a child in a manner that restricts the child's movement, for a minimum amount of time necessary to ensure a safe environment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Rule, no child shall be restrained through the use of heavy objects, including a caregiver's body, or any device such as straps, blankets, car seats, or cribs. (b) Discipline practices shall be age and developmentally appropriate. Item 1831- The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in the older infant classroom, the staff member worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that at least one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f) In centers that are licensed to care for infants, the child care administrator and any child care provider scheduled to work in the infant room shall complete ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training shall be completed within two months of an individual assuming responsibilities in the infant room and every three years thereafter. Child care administrators, as defined in G.S. 110-86(2a), shall complete ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. Completion of ITS-SIDS training shall be included once every three years in the number of hours needed to meet on-going training requirements in this Section. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are adequately attending to the children in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and keeping with the child’s developmental needs per Child Care Rule G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 10/14/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -A staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be assigned to space #2 older infant classroom until the two (2) primary staff members have completed the required ITS-SIDS certification. -I recommend that you reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for training on appropriate nurture and care of children. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0925-346L Visit Date: 9/30/2025 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 9/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 9/30/2025. The facility operates with a five-star license issued on 6/10/2022. The Special Services/Restrictions includes first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K and Head Start approved. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 9/25/2025 and sent to me on 9/25/2025. There is a concern of inadequate nurture and care. Per report, a ten (10) month old was crying and in distress. The staff member jerked the child up under the arms and told them “Hey, we're not doing this today.” The incident was reported to the administrator. During today’s visit, I observed four (4) infants and one (1) one-year-old engaged in playing on the floor with one (1) staff member. Another staff member was present in the room cleaning up from lunch. The staff present were actively supervising the children and meeting the individual needs of the children. While observing in the classroom, I observed that the classroom did not have the safe sleep policy posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. I also observed an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that to be considered locked, the door must have a key, combination, or magnetic lock, or the sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet inaccessible to children. The administrator stated that they will have a lock installed on the door. I stated or the sunscreen can be moved up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to children. I interviewed the administrators and two (2) staff members. The administrators reported they were made aware of this situation and had a meeting earlier this morning. When asked to state what happened on the date the incident occurred, the administrators stated the incident occurred on September 23, 2025, during lunch breaks was immediately reported. One (1) primary caregiver was out of the room on break, and a floater was covering the classroom. During this time, the children were having snack, and several children were crying. One (1) child was having a tough day, and the teacher was trying to encourage the child to remain in their seat. The staff member quickly picked up the child and stated in a not so kind tone, “we’re not doing this today." The administrator met with the teachers and team of floaters to address the need to be grounded and to call for a break if needed. The administrators went on to stated that they have a professional development day coming up on October 13, 2025, and will be addressing areas of concern. One (1) staff member reported that they did blanked out during the time they picked up the child due to numerous children crying. They stated they quickly picked up the child in order to help calm another child. The other staff member in the classroom at the time of the incident stated that there were several children crying and she was attending to a child. She observed the staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Staff files were reviewed during the visit. I monitored the three (3) staff members present the date the incident occurred and the primary classroom staff files. It was determined based on the documentation that the two (2) primary staff do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024, just recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in this classroom, she worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Based on the interviews, and information received, the allegation regarding nurture and care is substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #2 (walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. .0606(b) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” G.S. 110-91(10) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 841- In Space #2 (Walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet or the closet must be locked at all times. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b) Item 892- In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b) Item 902- Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider providing additional training and support for all staff. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children at 828-285-9333, for additional training and guidance regarding appropriate physical interactions with children. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten or bully children. 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) No child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. For purposes of this Rule, "staff" shall mean any regular or substitute caregiver, any volunteer, and any auxiliary personnel, including cooks, secretaries, janitors, maids, or vehicle drivers. The following shall apply at all child care centers: (1) no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking; (2) no child shall be placed in a locked room, closet, or box or be left alone in a room separated from staff; (3) no discipline shall be delegated to another child; (4) no food shall be withheld as punishment or given as a means of reward; (5) no child shall be disciplined for toileting accidents; (6) no child shall be disciplined for not sleeping during rest period; (7) no child shall be disciplined by assigning chores that require contact with or use of hazardous materials, such as cleaning bathrooms, floors, or emptying diaper pails; (8) physical activity, such as running laps and doing push-ups, shall not be withheld as punishment or required as punishment; (9) no child shall be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened, or bullied; and (10) no child shall be restrained as a form of discipline unless the child's safety or the safety of others is at risk. For purposes of this Rule, "restraining" shall mean that a caregiver physically holds a child in a manner that restricts the child's movement, for a minimum amount of time necessary to ensure a safe environment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Rule, no child shall be restrained through the use of heavy objects, including a caregiver's body, or any device such as straps, blankets, car seats, or cribs. (b) Discipline practices shall be age and developmentally appropriate. Item 1831- The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in the older infant classroom, the staff member worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that at least one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f) In centers that are licensed to care for infants, the child care administrator and any child care provider scheduled to work in the infant room shall complete ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training shall be completed within two months of an individual assuming responsibilities in the infant room and every three years thereafter. Child care administrators, as defined in G.S. 110-86(2a), shall complete ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. Completion of ITS-SIDS training shall be included once every three years in the number of hours needed to meet on-going training requirements in this Section. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are adequately attending to the children in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and keeping with the child’s developmental needs per Child Care Rule G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 10/14/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -A staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be assigned to space #2 older infant classroom until the two (2) primary staff members have completed the required ITS-SIDS certification. -I recommend that you reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for training on appropriate nurture and care of children. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0925-346L Visit Date: 9/30/2025 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 9/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 9/30/2025. The facility operates with a five-star license issued on 6/10/2022. The Special Services/Restrictions includes first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K and Head Start approved. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 9/25/2025 and sent to me on 9/25/2025. There is a concern of inadequate nurture and care. Per report, a ten (10) month old was crying and in distress. The staff member jerked the child up under the arms and told them “Hey, we're not doing this today.” The incident was reported to the administrator. During today’s visit, I observed four (4) infants and one (1) one-year-old engaged in playing on the floor with one (1) staff member. Another staff member was present in the room cleaning up from lunch. The staff present were actively supervising the children and meeting the individual needs of the children. While observing in the classroom, I observed that the classroom did not have the safe sleep policy posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. I also observed an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that to be considered locked, the door must have a key, combination, or magnetic lock, or the sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet inaccessible to children. The administrator stated that they will have a lock installed on the door. I stated or the sunscreen can be moved up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to children. I interviewed the administrators and two (2) staff members. The administrators reported they were made aware of this situation and had a meeting earlier this morning. When asked to state what happened on the date the incident occurred, the administrators stated the incident occurred on September 23, 2025, during lunch breaks was immediately reported. One (1) primary caregiver was out of the room on break, and a floater was covering the classroom. During this time, the children were having snack, and several children were crying. One (1) child was having a tough day, and the teacher was trying to encourage the child to remain in their seat. The staff member quickly picked up the child and stated in a not so kind tone, “we’re not doing this today." The administrator met with the teachers and team of floaters to address the need to be grounded and to call for a break if needed. The administrators went on to stated that they have a professional development day coming up on October 13, 2025, and will be addressing areas of concern. One (1) staff member reported that they did blanked out during the time they picked up the child due to numerous children crying. They stated they quickly picked up the child in order to help calm another child. The other staff member in the classroom at the time of the incident stated that there were several children crying and she was attending to a child. She observed the staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Staff files were reviewed during the visit. I monitored the three (3) staff members present the date the incident occurred and the primary classroom staff files. It was determined based on the documentation that the two (2) primary staff do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024, just recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in this classroom, she worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Based on the interviews, and information received, the allegation regarding nurture and care is substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #2 (walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. .0606(b) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” G.S. 110-91(10) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 841- In Space #2 (Walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet or the closet must be locked at all times. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b) Item 892- In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b) Item 902- Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider providing additional training and support for all staff. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children at 828-285-9333, for additional training and guidance regarding appropriate physical interactions with children. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten or bully children. 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) No child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. For purposes of this Rule, "staff" shall mean any regular or substitute caregiver, any volunteer, and any auxiliary personnel, including cooks, secretaries, janitors, maids, or vehicle drivers. The following shall apply at all child care centers: (1) no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking; (2) no child shall be placed in a locked room, closet, or box or be left alone in a room separated from staff; (3) no discipline shall be delegated to another child; (4) no food shall be withheld as punishment or given as a means of reward; (5) no child shall be disciplined for toileting accidents; (6) no child shall be disciplined for not sleeping during rest period; (7) no child shall be disciplined by assigning chores that require contact with or use of hazardous materials, such as cleaning bathrooms, floors, or emptying diaper pails; (8) physical activity, such as running laps and doing push-ups, shall not be withheld as punishment or required as punishment; (9) no child shall be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened, or bullied; and (10) no child shall be restrained as a form of discipline unless the child's safety or the safety of others is at risk. For purposes of this Rule, "restraining" shall mean that a caregiver physically holds a child in a manner that restricts the child's movement, for a minimum amount of time necessary to ensure a safe environment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Rule, no child shall be restrained through the use of heavy objects, including a caregiver's body, or any device such as straps, blankets, car seats, or cribs. (b) Discipline practices shall be age and developmentally appropriate. Item 1831- The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in the older infant classroom, the staff member worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that at least one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f) In centers that are licensed to care for infants, the child care administrator and any child care provider scheduled to work in the infant room shall complete ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training shall be completed within two months of an individual assuming responsibilities in the infant room and every three years thereafter. Child care administrators, as defined in G.S. 110-86(2a), shall complete ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. Completion of ITS-SIDS training shall be included once every three years in the number of hours needed to meet on-going training requirements in this Section. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are adequately attending to the children in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and keeping with the child’s developmental needs per Child Care Rule G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 10/14/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -A staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be assigned to space #2 older infant classroom until the two (2) primary staff members have completed the required ITS-SIDS certification. -I recommend that you reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for training on appropriate nurture and care of children. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-86 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0925-346L Visit Date: 9/30/2025 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 9/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 9/30/2025. The facility operates with a five-star license issued on 6/10/2022. The Special Services/Restrictions includes first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K and Head Start approved. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 9/25/2025 and sent to me on 9/25/2025. There is a concern of inadequate nurture and care. Per report, a ten (10) month old was crying and in distress. The staff member jerked the child up under the arms and told them “Hey, we're not doing this today.” The incident was reported to the administrator. During today’s visit, I observed four (4) infants and one (1) one-year-old engaged in playing on the floor with one (1) staff member. Another staff member was present in the room cleaning up from lunch. The staff present were actively supervising the children and meeting the individual needs of the children. While observing in the classroom, I observed that the classroom did not have the safe sleep policy posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. I also observed an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that to be considered locked, the door must have a key, combination, or magnetic lock, or the sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet inaccessible to children. The administrator stated that they will have a lock installed on the door. I stated or the sunscreen can be moved up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to children. I interviewed the administrators and two (2) staff members. The administrators reported they were made aware of this situation and had a meeting earlier this morning. When asked to state what happened on the date the incident occurred, the administrators stated the incident occurred on September 23, 2025, during lunch breaks was immediately reported. One (1) primary caregiver was out of the room on break, and a floater was covering the classroom. During this time, the children were having snack, and several children were crying. One (1) child was having a tough day, and the teacher was trying to encourage the child to remain in their seat. The staff member quickly picked up the child and stated in a not so kind tone, “we’re not doing this today." The administrator met with the teachers and team of floaters to address the need to be grounded and to call for a break if needed. The administrators went on to stated that they have a professional development day coming up on October 13, 2025, and will be addressing areas of concern. One (1) staff member reported that they did blanked out during the time they picked up the child due to numerous children crying. They stated they quickly picked up the child in order to help calm another child. The other staff member in the classroom at the time of the incident stated that there were several children crying and she was attending to a child. She observed the staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Staff files were reviewed during the visit. I monitored the three (3) staff members present the date the incident occurred and the primary classroom staff files. It was determined based on the documentation that the two (2) primary staff do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024, just recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in this classroom, she worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Based on the interviews, and information received, the allegation regarding nurture and care is substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #2 (walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. .0606(b) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” G.S. 110-91(10) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 841- In Space #2 (Walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet or the closet must be locked at all times. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b) Item 892- In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b) Item 902- Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider providing additional training and support for all staff. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children at 828-285-9333, for additional training and guidance regarding appropriate physical interactions with children. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten or bully children. 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) No child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. For purposes of this Rule, "staff" shall mean any regular or substitute caregiver, any volunteer, and any auxiliary personnel, including cooks, secretaries, janitors, maids, or vehicle drivers. The following shall apply at all child care centers: (1) no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking; (2) no child shall be placed in a locked room, closet, or box or be left alone in a room separated from staff; (3) no discipline shall be delegated to another child; (4) no food shall be withheld as punishment or given as a means of reward; (5) no child shall be disciplined for toileting accidents; (6) no child shall be disciplined for not sleeping during rest period; (7) no child shall be disciplined by assigning chores that require contact with or use of hazardous materials, such as cleaning bathrooms, floors, or emptying diaper pails; (8) physical activity, such as running laps and doing push-ups, shall not be withheld as punishment or required as punishment; (9) no child shall be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened, or bullied; and (10) no child shall be restrained as a form of discipline unless the child's safety or the safety of others is at risk. For purposes of this Rule, "restraining" shall mean that a caregiver physically holds a child in a manner that restricts the child's movement, for a minimum amount of time necessary to ensure a safe environment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Rule, no child shall be restrained through the use of heavy objects, including a caregiver's body, or any device such as straps, blankets, car seats, or cribs. (b) Discipline practices shall be age and developmentally appropriate. Item 1831- The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in the older infant classroom, the staff member worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that at least one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f) In centers that are licensed to care for infants, the child care administrator and any child care provider scheduled to work in the infant room shall complete ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training shall be completed within two months of an individual assuming responsibilities in the infant room and every three years thereafter. Child care administrators, as defined in G.S. 110-86(2a), shall complete ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. Completion of ITS-SIDS training shall be included once every three years in the number of hours needed to meet on-going training requirements in this Section. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are adequately attending to the children in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and keeping with the child’s developmental needs per Child Care Rule G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 10/14/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -A staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be assigned to space #2 older infant classroom until the two (2) primary staff members have completed the required ITS-SIDS certification. -I recommend that you reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for training on appropriate nurture and care of children. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0925-346L Visit Date: 9/30/2025 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 9/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Yusef Shafiq, Center Director, and Christie Tongier, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 9/30/2025. The facility operates with a five-star license issued on 6/10/2022. The Special Services/Restrictions includes first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. NC Pre-K and Head Start approved. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 9/25/2025 and sent to me on 9/25/2025. There is a concern of inadequate nurture and care. Per report, a ten (10) month old was crying and in distress. The staff member jerked the child up under the arms and told them “Hey, we're not doing this today.” The incident was reported to the administrator. During today’s visit, I observed four (4) infants and one (1) one-year-old engaged in playing on the floor with one (1) staff member. Another staff member was present in the room cleaning up from lunch. The staff present were actively supervising the children and meeting the individual needs of the children. While observing in the classroom, I observed that the classroom did not have the safe sleep policy posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. I also observed an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that to be considered locked, the door must have a key, combination, or magnetic lock, or the sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet inaccessible to children. The administrator stated that they will have a lock installed on the door. I stated or the sunscreen can be moved up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to children. I interviewed the administrators and two (2) staff members. The administrators reported they were made aware of this situation and had a meeting earlier this morning. When asked to state what happened on the date the incident occurred, the administrators stated the incident occurred on September 23, 2025, during lunch breaks was immediately reported. One (1) primary caregiver was out of the room on break, and a floater was covering the classroom. During this time, the children were having snack, and several children were crying. One (1) child was having a tough day, and the teacher was trying to encourage the child to remain in their seat. The staff member quickly picked up the child and stated in a not so kind tone, “we’re not doing this today." The administrator met with the teachers and team of floaters to address the need to be grounded and to call for a break if needed. The administrators went on to stated that they have a professional development day coming up on October 13, 2025, and will be addressing areas of concern. One (1) staff member reported that they did blanked out during the time they picked up the child due to numerous children crying. They stated they quickly picked up the child in order to help calm another child. The other staff member in the classroom at the time of the incident stated that there were several children crying and she was attending to a child. She observed the staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Staff files were reviewed during the visit. I monitored the three (3) staff members present the date the incident occurred and the primary classroom staff files. It was determined based on the documentation that the two (2) primary staff do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024, just recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in this classroom, she worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Based on the interviews, and information received, the allegation regarding nurture and care is substantiated. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #2 (walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. .2820(b) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. .0606(b) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten (10) month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” G.S. 110-91(10) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 841- In Space #2 (Walnut), an unlocked closet with sunscreen stored below five (5) feet on the shelf. We discussed that sunscreen must be stored up five (5) feet or the closet must be locked at all times. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A .2820(b) Item 892- In Space #2 (Walnut), the older infant classroom, the safe sleep policy was not posted for parents and staff to refer to. When asked about it, the staff member stated that the classroom transitioned to an older infant room when school started the last week in August. I stated that the policy is required to be posted in rooms where children under one year old are cared for. The staff member stated that they will need to request a copy to be posted. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(b) Item 902- Per staff interviews, the staff member reported she witnessed the other staff member "yank" up the ten month old child that was crying and in a not nice tone stated “we're not doing this today.” Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider providing additional training and support for all staff. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children at 828-285-9333, for additional training and guidance regarding appropriate physical interactions with children. Discuss with all staff the importance of nurture, care and treatment of children. Each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. Staff may not threaten or bully children. 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) No child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. For purposes of this Rule, "staff" shall mean any regular or substitute caregiver, any volunteer, and any auxiliary personnel, including cooks, secretaries, janitors, maids, or vehicle drivers. The following shall apply at all child care centers: (1) no child shall be handled roughly in any way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking; (2) no child shall be placed in a locked room, closet, or box or be left alone in a room separated from staff; (3) no discipline shall be delegated to another child; (4) no food shall be withheld as punishment or given as a means of reward; (5) no child shall be disciplined for toileting accidents; (6) no child shall be disciplined for not sleeping during rest period; (7) no child shall be disciplined by assigning chores that require contact with or use of hazardous materials, such as cleaning bathrooms, floors, or emptying diaper pails; (8) physical activity, such as running laps and doing push-ups, shall not be withheld as punishment or required as punishment; (9) no child shall be yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened, or bullied; and (10) no child shall be restrained as a form of discipline unless the child's safety or the safety of others is at risk. For purposes of this Rule, "restraining" shall mean that a caregiver physically holds a child in a manner that restricts the child's movement, for a minimum amount of time necessary to ensure a safe environment. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Rule, no child shall be restrained through the use of heavy objects, including a caregiver's body, or any device such as straps, blankets, car seats, or cribs. (b) Discipline practices shall be age and developmentally appropriate. Item 1831- The two (2) primary staff currently working in space #2 (walnut), do not have a current ITS-SIDS certification. One (1) staff member was recently hired on September 2, 2025, and the other staff member hired 4/8/2024 and recently started working in the older infant classroom. Prior to working in the older infant classroom, the staff member worked in a classroom with older children and ITS-SIDS was not required. We discussed that at least one (1) staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be present at all times until the other staff member has completed the required ITS-SIDS training. The ITS-SIDS training provided through the health and safety training topics is a different training and does not count for the required ITS-SIDS certification of infant room staff. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .1102(f) In centers that are licensed to care for infants, the child care administrator and any child care provider scheduled to work in the infant room shall complete ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training shall be completed within two months of an individual assuming responsibilities in the infant room and every three years thereafter. Child care administrators, as defined in G.S. 110-86(2a), shall complete ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. Completion of ITS-SIDS training shall be included once every three years in the number of hours needed to meet on-going training requirements in this Section. At all times, one child care provider who has completed ITS-SIDS training shall be present in the infant room while children are in care. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are adequately attending to the children in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and keeping with the child’s developmental needs per Child Care Rule G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 10/14/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -A staff member with a current ITS-SIDS certification must be assigned to space #2 older infant classroom until the two (2) primary staff members have completed the required ITS-SIDS certification. -I recommend that you reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for training on appropriate nurture and care of children. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .2830 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/16/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 7/16/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 310 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 Christie Tongier, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Christie Tongier, Administrator, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/15/2025. 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 – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – First shift (Daytime care), meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/18/2025. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 6/18/2025. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The previous drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/24. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 12/6/2024, with eight (8) demerits. The last lead water testing was completed on 1/23/2024. The next testing is due by 1/23/2027. The facility was exempt from the lead-based paint assessment requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1978 and no lead-based paint was used in order to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C.1004. The facility was exempt from asbestos inspection requirements. The facility provided the appropriate documentation to show all buildings were built after 1988 to meet the building age exemption criteria per 10A NCAC 41C .1003. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and was updated in 7/15/2025. The program does not provide transportation. Upon arrival, I signed in at the front desk. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor environment was conducted. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants and one year olds were engaged in free play and story time on the floor with the caregivers. One (1) child was on their cot resting while the others engaged in free play and story time. During nap time, one (1) staff assisted the four (4) children down for nap and one (1) staff member was engaged in play with two (2) children that were awake, and one (1) staff member conducted routine diaper changing. The staff used natural lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play with spray bottles, trucks, and riding toys. Staff were engaged in play with children. During staff were seated close to the children while they were sleeping. The staff also used low lighting and soft calming music to help the children rest. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in group time singing we wish you well. Then the group prepared to transition outdoors for gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. During nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. In space #4 (Balsam) is currently closed for the summer. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of three and four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children were engaged outdoor gross motor play with trikes, shovels, mud kitchen, and tire swings. After outdoor play, the group transitioned indoors to wash hands and prepare for lunch. After lunch the group prepared for nap. While monitoring the classroom, I observed one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. One (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. During nap time, the staff used soft music and low lighting to assist the children with resting. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one and two-year-old children were eating lunch at the tables. After lunch, the group prepared for nap time. During nap, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). It was removed due to black mold growing on the wall during the 1/15/2025 visit. The screen door has a master lock on the door and from the outside I visually observed the black mold on the wall. We discussed that children cannot use the space due to the black mold and I discussed with new administration to make them aware that the space was removed from the license. If the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of cheese quesadilla, black beans, watermelon, and milk. The facility currently has a sewer issue that was reported on 7/9/2025 by Ms. Tongier via email. The system experienced a failure in mechanics over the July 4th holiday when the facility was closed. The initial fix was unsuccessful, necessitating a larger repair (digging up lines to complete the repair). The facility had to empty the sewage tank to allow children to be able to use the classroom bathrooms. Porta potties were added in the parking lot for adult use only, so that they can elongate the time before having to empty the sewage tanks again. The facility is able to maintain health and safety standards in the building and remain open. The facility currently has plumbing crew on site daily working to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The facility does not have a set timeframe as to when the issue will be fixed. They are relying on the contractors. Environmental Health conducted a site visit on 7/10/2025 and provided guidance. Environmental Health recommended that the facility switch to single service, move laundry off site, and keep a haul record. Ideally to use all bathroom facilities indoors and address waste with pump and haul often enough to handle that volume. But, we also realize that sometimes lift stations don’t have the same capacity as a septic tank. So, it is necessary to use porta potties until the repairs can be completed. Staff will use hand sanitizer after using the porta potty and immediately wash hands at the hallway sink upon reentering the building prior to returning to their assigned classroom. The facility must also maintain a cleaning and disinfecting record for the porta potties. In regarding to supervision while staff are using the porta potties, the staff use a walkie talkie to request coverage for the classroom until they return. Staff/child ratio and supervision were maintained. The administrator will keep me updated on the timeline for completion. 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. While monitoring staff files, I observed three (3) staff members hired Health and Safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. .0803(12) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 106- The last approved fire inspection on file is dated 6/25/2024. Fire Marshall came on 6/18/25 but the inspection is marked unsatisfactory. An approved satisfactory inspection is needed. The administrator stated that the items marked No have been corrected and the Fire Marshall stated the facilities alarm system would need to be replaced due to the age and difficulty to get parts for repairs. The facility current system is in working condition and the facility has budgeted to have a new system installed. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0304(a) Item 807- Space #3, during nap time, I observed the room was too dark to be able to see the children’s wellbeing. We discussed to add battery powered lighting, or open the curtains to let in more natural lighting. The staff stated that they have battery powered lighting but needed replacement batteries and light bulbs. We discussed until they are able to replace batteries and light bulbs to open the curtains to allow more lighting to see the children easily. Space #7, I observed one (1) child with a blanket over their face. When asked, the staff stated that the child continuously pulls the cover over their face and they move the blanket down numerous times through out nap. We discussed that we understand that some children like a blanket on their face and staff need to continuously monitor and remove the blanket. Once the child is settled and asleep ensure the face is able to be seen at all times for staff isa able to validate the child’s wellbeing. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Item 842- Space #6, one (1) prescription medication was on-site without a permission to administer medication form. We discussed having the staff review the medication forms prior to the parent leaving the medication on-site. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(1)(a)&(b) Item 849- Space #3, I observed one (1) diaper cream permission to administer medication form that expired 1/22/2025. The site director removed the medication and form from the classroom to hold in the office until able to return to the parents. Space #6, one (1) diaper cream expired 4/2025 and the permission to administer medication form expired 1/22/2025. We discussed having staff conduct monthly medication checks to ensure the mediation and permission to administer medication forms are valid. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0803(12) Item 1811- Emergency drills were not conducted and documented every 3 months. The last emergency drill was practiced on 6/18/2025, and the previously conducted emergency drill was conducted on 1/23/2025. We discussed to preplan and scheduled the emergency drill by documenting them on your calendar and adding a notification to your electronic calendar to alert you when the drill is due to be conducted. Rule Reference: .0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Signed statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 7/30/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed that summer is here and I recommend conducting a staff meeting to refresh everyone on the importance of supervision throughout the day (indoor, outdoor, nap time, etc). Then to review the weather watch chart and discuss checking the heat index/air quality prior to going outside. **Reminder*** CBC is due by 9/22/25 for staff member hired 3/5/21, CBC due by 12/16/25 for staff member hired 5/5/14, CBC due by 8/13/25 for staff member hired 1/22/24. Health and Safety training due by 8/5/2025 for staff member hired 8/5/24. - DCDEE has added a new training module about Child Development on the DCDEE Moodle Learning Platform. This is the first of several planned modules to support orientation and the health and safety training requirements. This training module provides a basic overview about child development and is designed to help early educators support infants, toddlers, and preschool children to reach their next developmental milestone. In addition to gaining introductory knowledge about child development, early educators will learn about the many resources and professional agencies available in North Carolina to help with promoting a responsive and engaging learning environment to support all children served. Upon completion, participants will receive one (1) contact hour credit (CHC). An individual NCID is needed to access the Child Development Module. If you do not have an NCID, visit MYNCID.nc.gov to register for a free NCID account. If you experience problems with Moodle, contact dcdee_moodle_support@dhhs.nc.gov for assistance. For other training-related questions, please contact the Training and Program Development Consultant, Amia Eaton by calling (919) 814-6365 or emailing her at Amia.Eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .2830 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09.0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

GS 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 350 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. Monica Houck, Lead Licensing Consultant accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, was on-site and available during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-four percent (84%) as of 1/14/2025. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 12/27/2024. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space. Approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/5/2024. A monthly fire drill was missed for the month of October due to facility closure due to Tropical Storm Helene. The last shelter-in-place drill was practiced on 7/30/2024. A drill was documented on 10/30/2024 but the facility was closed due to Tropical Storm Helene and children were not present. The last playground inspection was documented on 12/21/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 12/6/2024 with eight (8) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. The facility closed on 9/27/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene and re-opened after Tropical Storm Helene on 11/4/2024. In space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were engaged in nap and free play. Three (3) infants were in their cribs sleeping, one (1) was being rocked by a staff member, and one (1) was in the floor engaged in exploring the environment. While monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. In space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-to-two-year-old children engaged in group time on the carpet. The staff were actively engaged with the children on the carpet. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play with listening activity, sand, blocks, and books. Two (2) therapist were working one on one with children in the classroom. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with blocks, books, water activity, and dramatic play. The staff were actively engaged in play with the children while actively supervising the classroom. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two and three-year-old children cleaning up and preparing to transitioning outside for gross motor play. The staff assisted the children with putting on their coats and hats to go outside. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-to-three-year-old children half of the class was outside and half of the class was indoors. Four (4) children were observed outdoors with two (2) staff members actively engaged in gross motor play. Four (4) children were observed indoors engaged in a group activity on the carpet with three (3) staff members. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-year-old children preparing to go outside by putting on their coats, hats, and gloves. Once outside, the group actively engaged in gross motor play with the slide, trikes, and sand. While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), is currently used as the multipurpose room and a meeting was in progress. No children were using the space. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). Is currently not in use due to black mold growing on the wall. The mold was observed yesterday 1/14/2025 and is currently in the process of bringing this to the maintenance teams’ attention to take care of. The space has not been in use since last Spring. Ms. Biggar submitted a statement to remove the space from the license. We did discuss if the space was to be added to the license later, the space would need a building, fire, and sanitation inspections completed. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. The space is currently not being used. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. No children were observed using the space. Lunch today consisted of bbq, roll, cauliflower, strawberries, and milk. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was not reviewed today. Site Monitoring Tool is not required for the 2024-2025 fiscal year due to Tropical Storm Helene. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional guidance due to Tropical Storm Helene: The following staff are due for an annual evaluation and staff development plan. Once all staff listed below have the annual evaluation and staff development plan completed and on file, notify me with the date completed for each staff member. *K. Martin – hire date 12/18/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *B. Wise – hire date 12/11/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Gigliotti – hire date 12/4/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *H. Biggar – hire date 12/6/21 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in December 2024 *C. Sisk – hire date 10/23/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 *F. Lazaras-South – hire date 10/11/22 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in October 2024 E. Serpas-Pineda – hire date 8/16/23 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in August 2024 *E. Reid – hire date 11/28/16 – was due to have annual evaluation and staff development plan completed in November 2024 We discussed that staff must complete an annual evaluation and staff development plan as referenced in the child care rule below. 10A NCAC 09 .0514 OPERATIONAL AND PERSONNEL POLICIES (f) We discussed that all staff must complete CPR and First Aid training within 90 days of employment and prior to expiration. If you face any barriers in finding a CPR and First Aid training, plan to contact me for assistance. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c and d) 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. GS 110-102 840 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. In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1314 Emergency information did not name childs health care professional. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. .0802(c)(2) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. .0604(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #114 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging receipt of the Summary of Law before the child was enrolled in the child care facility. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: GS 110-102 Item #840 In space #7 (Dogwood), While monitoring the indoor space, I observed ten (10) individual alcohol wipes in the first aid kit. These were removed and discarded during the visit. Rule Reference: 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b) Item # 871 In space #1 (Cherry), while monitoring the classroom environment, five (5) infants safe sleep checks were not conducted within fifteen minutes as stated in the safe sleep policy. One (1) child on 12/19/2024 checked at 10:00a and rechecked at 10:16a, Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 9:20a and rechecked at 9:45a a span of twenty-five (25) minutes between checks and not documentation stating that the child woke up during this time., another time of the day the child was checked at 12:40p and rechecked at 1:00p a span of twenty (20) minutes. On 12/19/24 a child was checked at 10:32a and rechecked at 11:00a a span of twenty-eight (28) minutes. Another child on 1/9/2025 the child was checked at 10:19a and rechecked at 10:40a a span of twenty-one (21) minutes. Another child on 1/14/2025 was checked at 12:50p and rechecked at 1:26p a span of forty-six (46) minutes. We discussed setting a time to assist with reminding staff to conduct sleep checks. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) Item #1203 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 receipt and discussion of Operational Policies at enrollment documentation was on file but was left blank and the parent did not sign the form to document this information was received and discussed. We discussed reviewing the information prior to the child’s enrollment. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0514(b) Item # 1314 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 emergency medical care information did not include the responsible party’s choice of health care professional. We discussed that the family could list the health department or local hospital. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0802 (c)(2) Item #1811 A shelter in place drill was documented for 10/30/2024, but the facility was closed till 11/4/2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene. A drill has not been conducted since the facility reopened on 11/4/2024. The previous completed drill was 7/30/2024. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604(u); .0302(d)(8) Item #1851 Child enrolled on 1/14/2025 did not have a signed notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions on file. The parent corrected this during today's pick up. Rule Reference: 10A NCAC 09.0604 (j) Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/29/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: -Outdoor space, the facility will need to remove the leaf build up at the base of the fence in order to not compromise the required four (4) feet fence height. -Remove any ice prior to the children using the outdoor space. The following staff is due to complete all required health and safety training topics on or before 1/22/25. *R. Workman – hire date 1/22/24 Missing topics – Building and physical premises safety; emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies; handling and storage of hazardous materials; and prevention of shaken baby, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment. R.D. Ellis is due to renew the DCDEE Criminal Background Check process. The current qualifying letter expires on 1/17/25. M. Vera-Yepez has CPR and First Aid that expires 3/16/25. The CPR and First Aid training must be completed prior to expiration. 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. Criminal Background Check System (ABCMS)- All child care facility administrators are required to complete the new ABCMS criminal background check portal training on Moodle. Once the training is complete, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to review the staff roster to ensure that all current staff members are listed. When someone is hired or terminated, the administrator will need to log into the ABCMS system to indicate the hire or termination date. 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. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1224-206L Visit Date: 12/19/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 12/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 02:30 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed. The report was reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/17/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 12/16/2024 and sent to me on 12/16/2024. There is a concern of inadequate inappropriate discipline, and a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. During today’s visit, I interviewed five (5) staff members the administrator and four (4) classroom teachers. The administrator did state the incident was brought to their attention back in the Spring where a staff member grabbed a child’s hands and told them to stop hitting/touching my body. The child got spooked and became upset and started to cry. The child's family has recently received an anonymous letter regarding the incident. The administrator stated that they were aware and did investigate the situation. The administrator did state that the situation wasn’t to the point of any immediate danger. The facility took action by writing the staff member up and developing an improvement plan. The teacher was then removed from the room due to an unhealthy working relationship. The administrator stated the staff member has not had any other issues until this week when this anonymous letter was received. The other staff members interviewed did state that they had concerns with the staff member using harsh tones with the children in care. The staff member reported she did grab the child’s hands but only to stop the child from hitting her. She did state that she did use a firm tone with the child to tell them “you will not hit me, or you may not hit me.” I reviewed the staff members file and observed an email documenting an incident where harsh tones were used on 2/7/2024 and the follow up email was sent on 2/13/2024. The staff members file did contain the signed copy of the Professional Ethic and Conduct addressing appropriate discipline, along with the Conscious Discipline Commitment. The improvement plan was reviewed along with follow-up documentation. Based on the interviews, and documents reviewed, the allegation regarding inappropriate discipline unsubstantiated. The allegations regarding a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs is substantiated. The following violation was documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was reported and confirmed that on 2/7/24 a staff member grabbed a child’s arms that was hitting her and used a harsh tone. G.S. 110-91(10) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 902 A Staff member used harsh tones with the children in care. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10). G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider offering additional support during transitions when needed. Plan to reach out to Anya Robyak, Child Care Resources Program Coordinator with Buncombe County Partnership for Children, for additional training and guidance regarding developmentally age appropriate physical and language interactions with children. Please see the guidance below from Caring for Our Children regarding giving directions to young children: 2.2 Supervision and Discipline “Using clear, direct, and simple commands. When clear commands are used with children, they are more likely to follow them. The caregiver/teacher should tell the child what to do rather than what NOT to do. The caregiver/teacher should limit the number of commands. The caregiver/teacher should use if/then and when/then statements with logical and natural consequences. These practices help children understand they can make choices and that choices have consequences” Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are appropriately disciplining and caring for children per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 and G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding discipline and nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/2/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed the need for additional training to be completed with the staff member to better understand how to appropriately care for young children while meeting their developmental needs. 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. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1224-206L Visit Date: 12/19/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 12/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 02:30 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed. The report was reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/17/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 12/16/2024 and sent to me on 12/16/2024. There is a concern of inadequate inappropriate discipline, and a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. During today’s visit, I interviewed five (5) staff members the administrator and four (4) classroom teachers. The administrator did state the incident was brought to their attention back in the Spring where a staff member grabbed a child’s hands and told them to stop hitting/touching my body. The child got spooked and became upset and started to cry. The child's family has recently received an anonymous letter regarding the incident. The administrator stated that they were aware and did investigate the situation. The administrator did state that the situation wasn’t to the point of any immediate danger. The facility took action by writing the staff member up and developing an improvement plan. The teacher was then removed from the room due to an unhealthy working relationship. The administrator stated the staff member has not had any other issues until this week when this anonymous letter was received. The other staff members interviewed did state that they had concerns with the staff member using harsh tones with the children in care. The staff member reported she did grab the child’s hands but only to stop the child from hitting her. She did state that she did use a firm tone with the child to tell them “you will not hit me, or you may not hit me.” I reviewed the staff members file and observed an email documenting an incident where harsh tones were used on 2/7/2024 and the follow up email was sent on 2/13/2024. The staff members file did contain the signed copy of the Professional Ethic and Conduct addressing appropriate discipline, along with the Conscious Discipline Commitment. The improvement plan was reviewed along with follow-up documentation. Based on the interviews, and documents reviewed, the allegation regarding inappropriate discipline unsubstantiated. The allegations regarding a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs is substantiated. The following violation was documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was reported and confirmed that on 2/7/24 a staff member grabbed a child’s arms that was hitting her and used a harsh tone. G.S. 110-91(10) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 902 A Staff member used harsh tones with the children in care. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10). G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider offering additional support during transitions when needed. Plan to reach out to Anya Robyak, Child Care Resources Program Coordinator with Buncombe County Partnership for Children, for additional training and guidance regarding developmentally age appropriate physical and language interactions with children. Please see the guidance below from Caring for Our Children regarding giving directions to young children: 2.2 Supervision and Discipline “Using clear, direct, and simple commands. When clear commands are used with children, they are more likely to follow them. The caregiver/teacher should tell the child what to do rather than what NOT to do. The caregiver/teacher should limit the number of commands. The caregiver/teacher should use if/then and when/then statements with logical and natural consequences. These practices help children understand they can make choices and that choices have consequences” Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are appropriately disciplining and caring for children per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 and G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding discipline and nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/2/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed the need for additional training to be completed with the staff member to better understand how to appropriately care for young children while meeting their developmental needs. 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. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1224-206L Visit Date: 12/19/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 12/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 02:30 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed. The report was reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/17/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 12/16/2024 and sent to me on 12/16/2024. There is a concern of inadequate inappropriate discipline, and a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. During today’s visit, I interviewed five (5) staff members the administrator and four (4) classroom teachers. The administrator did state the incident was brought to their attention back in the Spring where a staff member grabbed a child’s hands and told them to stop hitting/touching my body. The child got spooked and became upset and started to cry. The child's family has recently received an anonymous letter regarding the incident. The administrator stated that they were aware and did investigate the situation. The administrator did state that the situation wasn’t to the point of any immediate danger. The facility took action by writing the staff member up and developing an improvement plan. The teacher was then removed from the room due to an unhealthy working relationship. The administrator stated the staff member has not had any other issues until this week when this anonymous letter was received. The other staff members interviewed did state that they had concerns with the staff member using harsh tones with the children in care. The staff member reported she did grab the child’s hands but only to stop the child from hitting her. She did state that she did use a firm tone with the child to tell them “you will not hit me, or you may not hit me.” I reviewed the staff members file and observed an email documenting an incident where harsh tones were used on 2/7/2024 and the follow up email was sent on 2/13/2024. The staff members file did contain the signed copy of the Professional Ethic and Conduct addressing appropriate discipline, along with the Conscious Discipline Commitment. The improvement plan was reviewed along with follow-up documentation. Based on the interviews, and documents reviewed, the allegation regarding inappropriate discipline unsubstantiated. The allegations regarding a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs is substantiated. The following violation was documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was reported and confirmed that on 2/7/24 a staff member grabbed a child’s arms that was hitting her and used a harsh tone. G.S. 110-91(10) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 902 A Staff member used harsh tones with the children in care. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10). G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider offering additional support during transitions when needed. Plan to reach out to Anya Robyak, Child Care Resources Program Coordinator with Buncombe County Partnership for Children, for additional training and guidance regarding developmentally age appropriate physical and language interactions with children. Please see the guidance below from Caring for Our Children regarding giving directions to young children: 2.2 Supervision and Discipline “Using clear, direct, and simple commands. When clear commands are used with children, they are more likely to follow them. The caregiver/teacher should tell the child what to do rather than what NOT to do. The caregiver/teacher should limit the number of commands. The caregiver/teacher should use if/then and when/then statements with logical and natural consequences. These practices help children understand they can make choices and that choices have consequences” Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are appropriately disciplining and caring for children per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 and G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding discipline and nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/2/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed the need for additional training to be completed with the staff member to better understand how to appropriately care for young children while meeting their developmental needs. 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. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1224-206L Visit Date: 12/19/2024 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 12/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 10:10 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 02:30 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed. The report was reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, assisted me today. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-three percent (83%) as of 12/17/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The complaint was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 12/16/2024 and sent to me on 12/16/2024. There is a concern of inadequate inappropriate discipline, and a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. During today’s visit, I interviewed five (5) staff members the administrator and four (4) classroom teachers. The administrator did state the incident was brought to their attention back in the Spring where a staff member grabbed a child’s hands and told them to stop hitting/touching my body. The child got spooked and became upset and started to cry. The child's family has recently received an anonymous letter regarding the incident. The administrator stated that they were aware and did investigate the situation. The administrator did state that the situation wasn’t to the point of any immediate danger. The facility took action by writing the staff member up and developing an improvement plan. The teacher was then removed from the room due to an unhealthy working relationship. The administrator stated the staff member has not had any other issues until this week when this anonymous letter was received. The other staff members interviewed did state that they had concerns with the staff member using harsh tones with the children in care. The staff member reported she did grab the child’s hands but only to stop the child from hitting her. She did state that she did use a firm tone with the child to tell them “you will not hit me, or you may not hit me.” I reviewed the staff members file and observed an email documenting an incident where harsh tones were used on 2/7/2024 and the follow up email was sent on 2/13/2024. The staff members file did contain the signed copy of the Professional Ethic and Conduct addressing appropriate discipline, along with the Conscious Discipline Commitment. The improvement plan was reviewed along with follow-up documentation. Based on the interviews, and documents reviewed, the allegation regarding inappropriate discipline unsubstantiated. The allegations regarding a child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner or in keeping with the child’s developmental needs is substantiated. The following violation was documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It was reported and confirmed that on 2/7/24 a staff member grabbed a child’s arms that was hitting her and used a harsh tone. G.S. 110-91(10) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 902 A Staff member used harsh tones with the children in care. Rule Reference: G.S. 110-91(10). G.S. 110-91(10) Children must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, in keeping with their developmental needs. Consider offering additional support during transitions when needed. Plan to reach out to Anya Robyak, Child Care Resources Program Coordinator with Buncombe County Partnership for Children, for additional training and guidance regarding developmentally age appropriate physical and language interactions with children. Please see the guidance below from Caring for Our Children regarding giving directions to young children: 2.2 Supervision and Discipline “Using clear, direct, and simple commands. When clear commands are used with children, they are more likely to follow them. The caregiver/teacher should tell the child what to do rather than what NOT to do. The caregiver/teacher should limit the number of commands. The caregiver/teacher should use if/then and when/then statements with logical and natural consequences. These practices help children understand they can make choices and that choices have consequences” Achieving Compliance: The facility received a violation regarding nurture and care today. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to determine if staff are appropriately disciplining and caring for children per Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 and G.S. 110-91(10). Based on today’s findings, this child care facility received a substantiated complaint regarding discipline and nurture and care. This may warrant an administrative action as identified by Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2201. Additional monitoring visits may be required. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 1/2/2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 discussed the need for additional training to be completed with the staff member to better understand how to appropriately care for young children while meeting their developmental needs. 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. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well-being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1024-397L Visit Date: 11/8/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 11/8/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. Upon arrival, I explained the reason for my visit to Kaitlyn Guyer, Vice President of Grants and Continuous Improvement. Ms. Guyer was given the opportunity to address each concern and ask questions. An electronic handwritten report of today’s visit was completed due to connectivity. The electronic handwritten report was reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Kaitlyn Guyer, Vice President of Grants and Continuous Improvement, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. The allegations were received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 10/31/2024 and sent to me on 10/31/2024. There are concerns regarding sanitation and health. Based on the allegations there were concerns about sanitation and health. Kitchen staff were reported not wearing hair restraints and gloves. During the visit, I spoke with Kaitlyn Guyer and the Assistant Director of Food and Nutrition regarding the allegations. Both reported staff were gloves, and hair restraints while preparing and serving food. The facility opened at 10:00a so the facility is not providing breakfast. Lunch was prepared and, on the carts, ready to serve. Each item was saran wrapped and in sealed containers while on the cart awaiting to be served. There were three (3) staff observed without hair restraints however, they were not preparing or serving food all items were wrapped in saran wrap and sealed on the carts. One (1) staff member was in the office prior to my entering the kitchen working on menus. One (1) staff member had stepped out of the kitchen for a minute, and another staff member was speaking with another staff near the sink in the kitchen. At 11:15a one (1) staff member was observed delivering the meal carts to the classrooms without a hair restraint. Based on my observation and information received, the allegation regarding sanitation and health is substantiated. Additionally, a review of the Emergency Operation Plan (EOP) that was approved on 10/29/2024 and Corrective Action Plan that was issued on 7/12/2024 was monitored. The facility was closed due to the effects from Tropical Storm Helene from 9/26/2024 through 11/3/2024. The facility reopened to care for children under a boil water notice on 11/4/2024. We reviewed the Emergency Operation Plan (EOP) and I observed the EOP begin implemented as stated in the plan. We also reviewed each item in the Corrective Action plan that was issued on 7/12/2024. 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a)(1-5) regarding supervision. **NOTE** During today’s visit, I observed staff using the name to face recognition charts and documenting every thirty (30) minutes. Staff used increased communication. I also reviewed the flight plans that were shared and reviewed with staff. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Hilary Biggar, administrator, shall contact Anya Robyak, Child Care Resource Coordinator, Buncombe County Partnership for Children, telephone number 828-407-2056, email anya@buncombepfc.org, to arrange for “Interactive Supervision” training. All staff members, including Administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the name and signature of the trainer and the training participant, including the title of the training and the date and time the training was conducted. The documentation shall be maintained in the facility files for review by Division representatives upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar contacted Ms. Robyak on July 19, 2024, after receiving the final action to schedule the required training above. The training was scheduled for 8/21/24. The training was completed on 8/21/2024. The training roster was emailed to me after the training was conducted on 8/23/2024. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, Ms. Biggar shall develop a written plan that describes, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • When children are napping/resting • When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another • When children are transitioned from one area to another • Positioning of teachers for active supervision in the classroom, during transitions and on the playground • Procedures for supervisory staff members to visit each classroom and monitor staff members’ implementation of the transition plan • Plan of communication among co-teachers, floaters, support staff and administrators during breaks and shift change as well as when staff members need extra help • Procedures for periodic review of the supervision plan with all staff members, including the review of the plan in the orientation of new staff members before they assume child care responsibilities • Procedures for staff members to notify administrators and parents when a supervision incident occurs • Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures The written plan shall be submitted to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant PO Box 552, Ellenboro, NC 28040, telephone number 828-200-9952, email karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, for approval. Ms. Terry shall notify Ms. Biggar, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar submitted the written plan via email on 8/30/2024. After reviewing the plan an email was sent to Ms. Biggar on 9/4/2024 to request additional information be added to the written plan. Ms. Biggar revised the plan and resubmitted the plan for review on 9/4/2024. I reviewed and approved the plan on 9/5/2024. 4. Within two (2) weeks after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Terry within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted and all documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar was reminded on the 9/5/2024 that the plan must be reviewed with staff within two (2) weeks after approval, and that a signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to me within two (2) days after the meeting was conducted. On 9/20/2024, I received an email with the staff meeting roster attached. However, the staff roster did not have the printed name for each staff member in attendance, date, time, length of the training, and the minutes documenting the information that was discussed. I emailed Ms. Biggar back on 9/23/2024 to request the information that was not documented. Ms. Biggar emailed back on 9/25/2024 the updated staff roster with the required information. The corrective action plan for the written warning that was issued on 7/12/2024 has been completed. The following violations were documented during today’s visit Violation Number Comment Rule 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. One (1) staff member was observed delivering the lunch cart to the Dogwood and Ginko classrooms not wearing a hair restraint. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 9995- One (1) staff member was observed delivering the lunch cart to the Dogwood and Ginko classrooms not wearing a hair restraint. (15A NCAC 18A .2808(c) FOOD SERVICE (c) Employees preparing or serving food shall wash their hands in accordance with the procedures in Rule .2803(c) of this Section. Employees shall either use antibacterial soap, dips, or hand sanitizers immediately prior to food preparation or service or use clean, disposable gloves during food preparation or service. Employees engaged in food preparation in the kitchen shall wear effective hair restraints, keep their fingernails trimmed, clean and shall not wear fingernail polish or artificial fingernails unless wearing intact gloves. Hair spray is not an effective hair restraint. Review with the staff what is required to worn during food prep and food service. Then you could have a staff member conduct a surprise inspection during food prep and food service times to ensure that staff are wearing the appropriate hair restraint and gloves if needed. Prior to beginning food preparation or service the kitchen manager could ask staff if they have the appropriate hair restraint and gloves on if needed, and were their hands washed. Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 11/22/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 the 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: During the visit, no children were observed in the kitchen, but we did reviewed the requirements around children in the kitchen. Per rule 15A NCAC 18A FOOD SERVICE .2808 (f) Children attending child care centers shall not be in the kitchen except when participating in a supervised activity. We reviewed the NC Family Forward plan to remind the facility to notify the child care consultant when a staff member and child meets the requirements for this plan. We discussed that a Legal Designee will need to be completed giving Kaitlyn Guyer permission to sign off on visit summaries. I left a copy of the form with you to return to me. 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. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1024-397L Visit Date: 11/8/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 11/8/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate allegations of child care requirements. Upon arrival, I explained the reason for my visit to Kaitlyn Guyer, Vice President of Grants and Continuous Improvement. Ms. Guyer was given the opportunity to address each concern and ask questions. An electronic handwritten report of today’s visit was completed due to connectivity. The electronic handwritten report was reviewed with you, and signed by me, Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Kaitlyn Guyer, Vice President of Grants and Continuous Improvement, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. The allegations were received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on 10/31/2024 and sent to me on 10/31/2024. There are concerns regarding sanitation and health. Based on the allegations there were concerns about sanitation and health. Kitchen staff were reported not wearing hair restraints and gloves. During the visit, I spoke with Kaitlyn Guyer and the Assistant Director of Food and Nutrition regarding the allegations. Both reported staff were gloves, and hair restraints while preparing and serving food. The facility opened at 10:00a so the facility is not providing breakfast. Lunch was prepared and, on the carts, ready to serve. Each item was saran wrapped and in sealed containers while on the cart awaiting to be served. There were three (3) staff observed without hair restraints however, they were not preparing or serving food all items were wrapped in saran wrap and sealed on the carts. One (1) staff member was in the office prior to my entering the kitchen working on menus. One (1) staff member had stepped out of the kitchen for a minute, and another staff member was speaking with another staff near the sink in the kitchen. At 11:15a one (1) staff member was observed delivering the meal carts to the classrooms without a hair restraint. Based on my observation and information received, the allegation regarding sanitation and health is substantiated. Additionally, a review of the Emergency Operation Plan (EOP) that was approved on 10/29/2024 and Corrective Action Plan that was issued on 7/12/2024 was monitored. The facility was closed due to the effects from Tropical Storm Helene from 9/26/2024 through 11/3/2024. The facility reopened to care for children under a boil water notice on 11/4/2024. We reviewed the Emergency Operation Plan (EOP) and I observed the EOP begin implemented as stated in the plan. We also reviewed each item in the Corrective Action plan that was issued on 7/12/2024. 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a)(1-5) regarding supervision. **NOTE** During today’s visit, I observed staff using the name to face recognition charts and documenting every thirty (30) minutes. Staff used increased communication. I also reviewed the flight plans that were shared and reviewed with staff. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Hilary Biggar, administrator, shall contact Anya Robyak, Child Care Resource Coordinator, Buncombe County Partnership for Children, telephone number 828-407-2056, email anya@buncombepfc.org, to arrange for “Interactive Supervision” training. All staff members, including Administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the name and signature of the trainer and the training participant, including the title of the training and the date and time the training was conducted. The documentation shall be maintained in the facility files for review by Division representatives upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar contacted Ms. Robyak on July 19, 2024, after receiving the final action to schedule the required training above. The training was scheduled for 8/21/24. The training was completed on 8/21/2024. The training roster was emailed to me after the training was conducted on 8/23/2024. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, Ms. Biggar shall develop a written plan that describes, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • When children are napping/resting • When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another • When children are transitioned from one area to another • Positioning of teachers for active supervision in the classroom, during transitions and on the playground • Procedures for supervisory staff members to visit each classroom and monitor staff members’ implementation of the transition plan • Plan of communication among co-teachers, floaters, support staff and administrators during breaks and shift change as well as when staff members need extra help • Procedures for periodic review of the supervision plan with all staff members, including the review of the plan in the orientation of new staff members before they assume child care responsibilities • Procedures for staff members to notify administrators and parents when a supervision incident occurs • Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures The written plan shall be submitted to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant PO Box 552, Ellenboro, NC 28040, telephone number 828-200-9952, email karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, for approval. Ms. Terry shall notify Ms. Biggar, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar submitted the written plan via email on 8/30/2024. After reviewing the plan an email was sent to Ms. Biggar on 9/4/2024 to request additional information be added to the written plan. Ms. Biggar revised the plan and resubmitted the plan for review on 9/4/2024. I reviewed and approved the plan on 9/5/2024. 4. Within two (2) weeks after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Terry within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted and all documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar was reminded on the 9/5/2024 that the plan must be reviewed with staff within two (2) weeks after approval, and that a signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to me within two (2) days after the meeting was conducted. On 9/20/2024, I received an email with the staff meeting roster attached. However, the staff roster did not have the printed name for each staff member in attendance, date, time, length of the training, and the minutes documenting the information that was discussed. I emailed Ms. Biggar back on 9/23/2024 to request the information that was not documented. Ms. Biggar emailed back on 9/25/2024 the updated staff roster with the required information. The corrective action plan for the written warning that was issued on 7/12/2024 has been completed. The following violations were documented during today’s visit Violation Number Comment Rule 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. One (1) staff member was observed delivering the lunch cart to the Dogwood and Ginko classrooms not wearing a hair restraint. Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 9995- One (1) staff member was observed delivering the lunch cart to the Dogwood and Ginko classrooms not wearing a hair restraint. (15A NCAC 18A .2808(c) FOOD SERVICE (c) Employees preparing or serving food shall wash their hands in accordance with the procedures in Rule .2803(c) of this Section. Employees shall either use antibacterial soap, dips, or hand sanitizers immediately prior to food preparation or service or use clean, disposable gloves during food preparation or service. Employees engaged in food preparation in the kitchen shall wear effective hair restraints, keep their fingernails trimmed, clean and shall not wear fingernail polish or artificial fingernails unless wearing intact gloves. Hair spray is not an effective hair restraint. Review with the staff what is required to worn during food prep and food service. Then you could have a staff member conduct a surprise inspection during food prep and food service times to ensure that staff are wearing the appropriate hair restraint and gloves if needed. Prior to beginning food preparation or service the kitchen manager could ask staff if they have the appropriate hair restraint and gloves on if needed, and were their hands washed. Achieving Compliance: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 11/22/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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 the 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: During the visit, no children were observed in the kitchen, but we did reviewed the requirements around children in the kitchen. Per rule 15A NCAC 18A FOOD SERVICE .2808 (f) Children attending child care centers shall not be in the kitchen except when participating in a supervised activity. We reviewed the NC Family Forward plan to remind the facility to notify the child care consultant when a staff member and child meets the requirements for this plan. We discussed that a Legal Designee will need to be completed giving Kaitlyn Guyer permission to sign off on visit summaries. I left a copy of the form with you to return to me. 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. 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 to your program. All rules/laws cannot be verbally reviewed during any licensing visit. Please ask questions if you are having difficulty and would like additional technical assistance. I welcome your questions and can be a resource for you while you strive to provide a safe and healthy environment for the well being of young children. 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/27/2024 Number Present: 38 Completed Date: 8/27/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the routine unannounced visit on 8/9/2024. A handwritten report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk and was greeted by Marcia Whitney, CEO and President, and Hilary Biggar, Administrator. Ms. Biggar was available to assist me during the visit. Limited monitoring was conducted today including supervision, staff/child ratio, adequate approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. The license, administrative action, and emergency care plan were posted. The indoor and outdoor environment used by the children was monitored today. Kitchen space was clean, orderly, and staff were preparing to serve lunch. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were being rocked by a caregiver. One(1) was standing, and one (1) was rocking holding a child. The other staff member was assisting as needed. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-year-old children three (3) children were indoors with two (2) staff members. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper change, and one (1) staff member was assisting the children with washing hands as they entered the classroom. The remaining three (3) children were outside engaged in gross motor play and one (1) staff member was outside. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, sand, and balls. The staff were frequently scanning the outdoor space and engaging in play with the children. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of three-to-four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, sand, and balls. The staff were frequently scanning the outdoor space and engaging in play with the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children were engaged in gross motor play outdoors and preparing to transition indoors. Once indoors, the children washed their hands and transitioned to the table for lunch. The staff conducted a head count prior to entering the classroom door and one (1) staff was at the front of the line, one (1) at the middle of the line, and one (1) at the end of the line. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-year-old children were engaged in preparing for lunch and gross motor play. Three (3) children were at the table ready for lunch, one (1) child was having a routine diaper change conducted, and four (4) were outdoors engaged in gross motor play. Staff were meeting the individual needs of the children while actively supervising. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one-year old children were eating lunch. The three (3) staff members were sitting with the children while they ate. While monitoring the room, I observed one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. Also, I observed one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Tubelo) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, and cozy area. The room was currently not in use. Outdoor gross motor spaces were clean, and items were in good condition. The following violations documented during the 8/9/2024 visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: 1048- All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. When I reviewed the staff file, the staff members current First Aid card was not on file. The administrator spoke with the staff member and the staff member stated that they did take the course on 7/20/2024. The staff member was able to pull the card up and send it to the administrator during the visit. The administrator printed the current certification card dated 7/20/2024 and put it in the staff members file during the visit to correct this violation. 1049- All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. When I reviewed the staff file, the staff members current CPR card was not on file. The administrator spoke with the staff member and the staff member stated that they did take the course on 7/20/2024. The staff member was able to pull the card up and send it to the administrator during the visit. The administrator printed the current certification card dated 7/20/2024 and put it in the staff members file during the visit to correct this violation. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #7, one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #7, one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. .0604(q) 1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current . Staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR card was not on file for review after completion of the training on 7/20/2024. 10A NCAC 09 .1106(a) Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. - In space #7, one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. I suggest conducting a classroom check daily ensure that hazardous items are stored appropriately. Item #858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. -In space #7, one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. I suggest conducting a classroom check to ensure all plastic and easily torn materials are stored in accessible to the children. Item #1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current . 10A NCAC 09 .1106 DOCUMENTATION OF ON-GOING TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (a) Each center shall have a record of training activities in which each staff member participates, including copies of training certificates or official documentation provided by the trainer. That record shall include the subject matter, topic area in G.S. 110-91(11), training provider, date provided, hours, and name of staff who completed the training. This documentation shall be on file and current. - Staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR card was not on file for review after completion of the training on 7/20/2024. The staff member emailed the administrator the completion certificate during the visit. The administrator printed the certificate and put the certificate in the staffs file during the visit. I suggest after each training have staff submit their completion certificate to you. Consultation We discussed the following: - Review with staff the proper storage of hazardous products and plastics and easily torn items. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for a refresher course on proper storage of hazardous products and plastic and easily torn items. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1106 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/27/2024 Number Present: 38 Completed Date: 8/27/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the routine unannounced visit on 8/9/2024. A handwritten report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk and was greeted by Marcia Whitney, CEO and President, and Hilary Biggar, Administrator. Ms. Biggar was available to assist me during the visit. Limited monitoring was conducted today including supervision, staff/child ratio, adequate approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. The license, administrative action, and emergency care plan were posted. The indoor and outdoor environment used by the children was monitored today. Kitchen space was clean, orderly, and staff were preparing to serve lunch. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were being rocked by a caregiver. One(1) was standing, and one (1) was rocking holding a child. The other staff member was assisting as needed. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-year-old children three (3) children were indoors with two (2) staff members. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper change, and one (1) staff member was assisting the children with washing hands as they entered the classroom. The remaining three (3) children were outside engaged in gross motor play and one (1) staff member was outside. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, sand, and balls. The staff were frequently scanning the outdoor space and engaging in play with the children. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of three-to-four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, sand, and balls. The staff were frequently scanning the outdoor space and engaging in play with the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children were engaged in gross motor play outdoors and preparing to transition indoors. Once indoors, the children washed their hands and transitioned to the table for lunch. The staff conducted a head count prior to entering the classroom door and one (1) staff was at the front of the line, one (1) at the middle of the line, and one (1) at the end of the line. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-year-old children were engaged in preparing for lunch and gross motor play. Three (3) children were at the table ready for lunch, one (1) child was having a routine diaper change conducted, and four (4) were outdoors engaged in gross motor play. Staff were meeting the individual needs of the children while actively supervising. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one-year old children were eating lunch. The three (3) staff members were sitting with the children while they ate. While monitoring the room, I observed one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. Also, I observed one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Tubelo) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, and cozy area. The room was currently not in use. Outdoor gross motor spaces were clean, and items were in good condition. The following violations documented during the 8/9/2024 visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: 1048- All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. When I reviewed the staff file, the staff members current First Aid card was not on file. The administrator spoke with the staff member and the staff member stated that they did take the course on 7/20/2024. The staff member was able to pull the card up and send it to the administrator during the visit. The administrator printed the current certification card dated 7/20/2024 and put it in the staff members file during the visit to correct this violation. 1049- All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. When I reviewed the staff file, the staff members current CPR card was not on file. The administrator spoke with the staff member and the staff member stated that they did take the course on 7/20/2024. The staff member was able to pull the card up and send it to the administrator during the visit. The administrator printed the current certification card dated 7/20/2024 and put it in the staff members file during the visit to correct this violation. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #7, one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #7, one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. .0604(q) 1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current . Staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR card was not on file for review after completion of the training on 7/20/2024. 10A NCAC 09 .1106(a) Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. - In space #7, one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. I suggest conducting a classroom check daily ensure that hazardous items are stored appropriately. Item #858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. -In space #7, one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. I suggest conducting a classroom check to ensure all plastic and easily torn materials are stored in accessible to the children. Item #1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current . 10A NCAC 09 .1106 DOCUMENTATION OF ON-GOING TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (a) Each center shall have a record of training activities in which each staff member participates, including copies of training certificates or official documentation provided by the trainer. That record shall include the subject matter, topic area in G.S. 110-91(11), training provider, date provided, hours, and name of staff who completed the training. This documentation shall be on file and current. - Staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR card was not on file for review after completion of the training on 7/20/2024. The staff member emailed the administrator the completion certificate during the visit. The administrator printed the certificate and put the certificate in the staffs file during the visit. I suggest after each training have staff submit their completion certificate to you. Consultation We discussed the following: - Review with staff the proper storage of hazardous products and plastics and easily torn items. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for a refresher course on proper storage of hazardous products and plastic and easily torn items. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/27/2024 Number Present: 38 Completed Date: 8/27/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to verify correction of violations documented during the routine unannounced visit on 8/9/2024. A handwritten report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk and was greeted by Marcia Whitney, CEO and President, and Hilary Biggar, Administrator. Ms. Biggar was available to assist me during the visit. Limited monitoring was conducted today including supervision, staff/child ratio, adequate approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. The license, administrative action, and emergency care plan were posted. The indoor and outdoor environment used by the children was monitored today. Kitchen space was clean, orderly, and staff were preparing to serve lunch. Space #1 (Cherry), a group of an infants were being rocked by a caregiver. One(1) was standing, and one (1) was rocking holding a child. The other staff member was assisting as needed. Space #2 (Tubelo), a group of one-year-old children three (3) children were indoors with two (2) staff members. One (1) staff member was conducting routine diaper change, and one (1) staff member was assisting the children with washing hands as they entered the classroom. The remaining three (3) children were outside engaged in gross motor play and one (1) staff member was outside. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, sand, and balls. The staff were frequently scanning the outdoor space and engaging in play with the children. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of three-to-four-year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play with trikes, sand, and balls. The staff were frequently scanning the outdoor space and engaging in play with the children. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children were engaged in gross motor play outdoors and preparing to transition indoors. Once indoors, the children washed their hands and transitioned to the table for lunch. The staff conducted a head count prior to entering the classroom door and one (1) staff was at the front of the line, one (1) at the middle of the line, and one (1) at the end of the line. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two-year-old children were engaged in preparing for lunch and gross motor play. Three (3) children were at the table ready for lunch, one (1) child was having a routine diaper change conducted, and four (4) were outdoors engaged in gross motor play. Staff were meeting the individual needs of the children while actively supervising. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of one-year old children were eating lunch. The three (3) staff members were sitting with the children while they ate. While monitoring the room, I observed one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. Also, I observed one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Tubelo) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, and cozy area. The room was currently not in use. Outdoor gross motor spaces were clean, and items were in good condition. The following violations documented during the 8/9/2024 visit was monitored for compliance during this visit: 1048- All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. When I reviewed the staff file, the staff members current First Aid card was not on file. The administrator spoke with the staff member and the staff member stated that they did take the course on 7/20/2024. The staff member was able to pull the card up and send it to the administrator during the visit. The administrator printed the current certification card dated 7/20/2024 and put it in the staff members file during the visit to correct this violation. 1049- All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. When I reviewed the staff file, the staff members current CPR card was not on file. The administrator spoke with the staff member and the staff member stated that they did take the course on 7/20/2024. The staff member was able to pull the card up and send it to the administrator during the visit. The administrator printed the current certification card dated 7/20/2024 and put it in the staff members file during the visit to correct this violation. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 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. In space #7, one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #7, one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. .0604(q) 1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current . Staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR card was not on file for review after completion of the training on 7/20/2024. 10A NCAC 09 .1106(a) Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. - In space #7, one (1) bottle of essential oil on a shelf up five (5) feet with additional warnings. The teacher moved the essential oil to a locked closet. I suggest conducting a classroom check daily ensure that hazardous items are stored appropriately. Item #858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. -In space #7, one (1) plastic wipe packaging on the counter accessible to the children. The administrator moved the plastic wipe packaging up five (5) feet to be inaccessible to the children. I suggest conducting a classroom check to ensure all plastic and easily torn materials are stored in accessible to the children. Item #1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current . 10A NCAC 09 .1106 DOCUMENTATION OF ON-GOING TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (a) Each center shall have a record of training activities in which each staff member participates, including copies of training certificates or official documentation provided by the trainer. That record shall include the subject matter, topic area in G.S. 110-91(11), training provider, date provided, hours, and name of staff who completed the training. This documentation shall be on file and current. - Staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR card was not on file for review after completion of the training on 7/20/2024. The staff member emailed the administrator the completion certificate during the visit. The administrator printed the certificate and put the certificate in the staffs file during the visit. I suggest after each training have staff submit their completion certificate to you. Consultation We discussed the following: - Review with staff the proper storage of hazardous products and plastics and easily torn items. Reach out to Buncombe County Partnership for Children for a refresher course on proper storage of hazardous products and plastic and easily torn items. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-207L Visit Date: 8/19/2024 Number Present: 0 Completed Date: 8/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 0 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate a complaint received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on 8/15/24 regarding a safe environment, sanitation and health. The report was sent to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, on 8/15/24. Also, during the visit, I monitored compliance with the Administrative Action: Written Warning and the Corrective Action Plan issued on July 12, 2024. 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 Hilary Biggar, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left with Ms. Biggar. Brittany Case, Registered Environmental Health Specialist accompanied me on the visit. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, accompanied me today. Limited monitoring of child care rules was conducted including but not limited to supervision, general safety, safe environment, sanitation, health and storage of hazardous products. Stipulations listed on the Administrative Action were also discussed and monitored during the visit. The facility operates with restriction: daytime care, meets enhanced ratios and space. The facility was closed today due to staff development. Children were not on campus and staff were engaged in trainings. I conducted a walkthrough of kitchen and food prep area. I spoke with the kitchen staff. The staff member stated that the kitchen is cleaned thoroughly every two (2) weeks, a deep clean is conducted each week the facility is closed. During the deep clean they pull the appliances out and clean behind them, and refrigerators are cleaned thoroughly. The staff were observed actively cleaning the kitchen. Based on information provided, observation, interview with one (1) staff member, and Registered Environmental Health Specialist documentation the concern for safe environment, sanitation and health was unsubstantiated. Additionally, I followed up with the items that are stipulations listed in your Corrective Action Plan and a note is document for each one as to where you are within the plan. 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a)(1-5) regarding supervision. **NOTE** This item was unable to be monitored due to the facility was closed, and children were not present. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Hilary Biggar, administrator, shall contact Anya Robyak, Child Care Resource Coordinator, Buncombe County Partnership for Children, telephone number 828-407-2056, email anya@buncombepfc.org, to arrange for “Interactive Supervision” training. All staff members, including Administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the name and signature of the trainer and the training participant, including the title of the training and the date and time the training was conducted. The documentation shall be maintained in the facility files for review by Division representatives upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar contacted Ms. Robyak on July 19, 2024, after receiving the final action to schedule the required training above. The training is scheduled for 8/21/24. The training roster will be emailed to me after the training is conducted. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, Ms. Biggar shall develop a written plan that describes, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • When children are napping/resting • When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another • When children are transitioned from one area to another • Positioning of teachers for active supervision in the classroom, during transitions and on the playground • Procedures for supervisory staff members to visit each classroom and monitor staff members’ implementation of the transition plan • Plan of communication among co-teachers, floaters, support staff and administrators during breaks and shift change as well as when staff members need extra help • Procedures for periodic review of the supervision plan with all staff members, including the review of the plan in the orientation of new staff members before they assume child care responsibilities • Procedures for staff members to notify administrators and parents when a supervision incident occurs • Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures The written plan shall be submitted to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant PO Box 552, Ellenboro, NC 28040, telephone number 828-200-9952, email karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, for approval. Ms. Terry shall notify Ms. Biggar, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** This item was unable to be monitored due to the training has not been conducted. 4. Within two (2) weeks after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Terry within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted and all documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** This item was unable to be monitored due to the training has not been conducted. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 504 Perishable foods were not stored to protect against spoilage. Multiple cheeses were observed, and temperature registered at 47 to 53 degrees by Brittany Case, Registered Environmental Health Specialist. The cheese had one (1) hour to be cooled back to appropriate temperature of 45 degrees or below before the facility had to discard the cheese. The kitchen staff corrected this during the visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2806 Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 504 15A NCAC 18A .2806 FOOD STORAGE AND PROTECTION (f) All food shall be stored in a manner to protect it from dust, rodents, insects, drip, splash and other contamination. Raw meats, poultry, fish, shellfish and eggs shall be stored on shelving beneath and separate from other foods. The temperature of potentially hazardous food provided by the center shall be 45°F (7°C) or below, or 140°F (60°C) or above at all times, including field trips, catering events, outdoor service, except during necessary periods of preparation and service, and as otherwise provided in the Rules of this Section. Multiple cheeses were observed, and temperature registered at 47 to 53 degrees by Brittany Case, Registered Environmental Health Specialist. The cheese had one (1) hour to be cooled back to appropriate temperature of 45 degrees or below before the facility had to discard the cheese. The kitchen staff corrected this during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Ensure foods are stored appropriately and kept at 45 degrees or below to ensure that food does not spoil. - Interactive supervision training, all staff members, including Administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the name and signature of the trainer and the training participant, including the title of the training and the date and time the training was conducted. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-207L Visit Date: 8/19/2024 Number Present: 0 Completed Date: 8/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 0 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is to investigate a complaint received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on 8/15/24 regarding a safe environment, sanitation and health. The report was sent to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, on 8/15/24. Also, during the visit, I monitored compliance with the Administrative Action: Written Warning and the Corrective Action Plan issued on July 12, 2024. 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 Hilary Biggar, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left with Ms. Biggar. Brittany Case, Registered Environmental Health Specialist accompanied me on the visit. Hilary Biggar, Administrator, accompanied me today. Limited monitoring of child care rules was conducted including but not limited to supervision, general safety, safe environment, sanitation, health and storage of hazardous products. Stipulations listed on the Administrative Action were also discussed and monitored during the visit. The facility operates with restriction: daytime care, meets enhanced ratios and space. The facility was closed today due to staff development. Children were not on campus and staff were engaged in trainings. I conducted a walkthrough of kitchen and food prep area. I spoke with the kitchen staff. The staff member stated that the kitchen is cleaned thoroughly every two (2) weeks, a deep clean is conducted each week the facility is closed. During the deep clean they pull the appliances out and clean behind them, and refrigerators are cleaned thoroughly. The staff were observed actively cleaning the kitchen. Based on information provided, observation, interview with one (1) staff member, and Registered Environmental Health Specialist documentation the concern for safe environment, sanitation and health was unsubstantiated. Additionally, I followed up with the items that are stipulations listed in your Corrective Action Plan and a note is document for each one as to where you are within the plan. 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a)(1-5) regarding supervision. **NOTE** This item was unable to be monitored due to the facility was closed, and children were not present. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Hilary Biggar, administrator, shall contact Anya Robyak, Child Care Resource Coordinator, Buncombe County Partnership for Children, telephone number 828-407-2056, email anya@buncombepfc.org, to arrange for “Interactive Supervision” training. All staff members, including Administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the name and signature of the trainer and the training participant, including the title of the training and the date and time the training was conducted. The documentation shall be maintained in the facility files for review by Division representatives upon request. **NOTE** Ms. Biggar contacted Ms. Robyak on July 19, 2024, after receiving the final action to schedule the required training above. The training is scheduled for 8/21/24. The training roster will be emailed to me after the training is conducted. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the training in Item #2, Ms. Biggar shall develop a written plan that describes, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • When children are napping/resting • When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another • When children are transitioned from one area to another • Positioning of teachers for active supervision in the classroom, during transitions and on the playground • Procedures for supervisory staff members to visit each classroom and monitor staff members’ implementation of the transition plan • Plan of communication among co-teachers, floaters, support staff and administrators during breaks and shift change as well as when staff members need extra help • Procedures for periodic review of the supervision plan with all staff members, including the review of the plan in the orientation of new staff members before they assume child care responsibilities • Procedures for staff members to notify administrators and parents when a supervision incident occurs • Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures The written plan shall be submitted to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant PO Box 552, Ellenboro, NC 28040, telephone number 828-200-9952, email karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, for approval. Ms. Terry shall notify Ms. Biggar, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** This item was unable to be monitored due to the training has not been conducted. 4. Within two (2) weeks after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. A signed attendance roster of staff attending the meeting shall be emailed to Ms. Terry within two (2) days after the meeting is conducted and all documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. **NOTE** This item was unable to be monitored due to the training has not been conducted. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 504 Perishable foods were not stored to protect against spoilage. Multiple cheeses were observed, and temperature registered at 47 to 53 degrees by Brittany Case, Registered Environmental Health Specialist. The cheese had one (1) hour to be cooled back to appropriate temperature of 45 degrees or below before the facility had to discard the cheese. The kitchen staff corrected this during the visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2806 Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item 504 15A NCAC 18A .2806 FOOD STORAGE AND PROTECTION (f) All food shall be stored in a manner to protect it from dust, rodents, insects, drip, splash and other contamination. Raw meats, poultry, fish, shellfish and eggs shall be stored on shelving beneath and separate from other foods. The temperature of potentially hazardous food provided by the center shall be 45°F (7°C) or below, or 140°F (60°C) or above at all times, including field trips, catering events, outdoor service, except during necessary periods of preparation and service, and as otherwise provided in the Rules of this Section. Multiple cheeses were observed, and temperature registered at 47 to 53 degrees by Brittany Case, Registered Environmental Health Specialist. The cheese had one (1) hour to be cooled back to appropriate temperature of 45 degrees or below before the facility had to discard the cheese. The kitchen staff corrected this during the visit. Achieving Compliance: 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. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Ensure foods are stored appropriately and kept at 45 degrees or below to ensure that food does not spoil. - Interactive supervision training, all staff members, including Administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall include a training roster with the name and signature of the trainer and the training participant, including the title of the training and the date and time the training was conducted. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1101 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .2830 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2024 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 8/9/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 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. Upon arrival, the purpose of today’s visit was reviewed with you, Marcia Whitney, President and CEO. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, accompanied me today during the walk through and was available to assist with questions. The program’s annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/25/2024. 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 A walk through of the facility was conducted. I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. Space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children were exploring the indoor environment and preparing to go outside. Once outside, the children engaged in water play at the water table. Six (6) children were outside with two (2) adults and one (1) child was inside with one (1) adult. Space #2 (Cherry), a group of three-year-old children were combined with Dogwood in space #7 today due to low attendance. Space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children were cleaning up from free play and preparing to transition outdoors for gross motor play. Space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in outdoor gross motor play. While monitoring the indoor environment, I observed one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. While checking the emergency backpack, I observed one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Space #5 (Walnut), a group of two to three -year-old children were engaged in outdoor gross motor play. Space #6 (Ginko), a group of two year-old children were engaged in gross motor play on the playground. While monitoring medications indoors, I observed one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. Space #7 (Dogwood), a group of three-year old children and Cherry space #2 three year old children were combined in space #7 today due to low attendance. The groups were observed engaged in gross motor play and then transitioning indoors to prepare for lunch. While monitoring indoors, I observed one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), currently not in use and is now going to be used as a multipurpose room. One (1) summer consultant was in the space cleaning. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry) was not being used during the visit. Space #11 is located off classroom space #7 (Dogwood) the screened in porch was not being used during the visit. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, one-person trampoline and see-saw. The room was currently not in use. While monitoring the outdoor environment, I observed the gate on the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitney that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. The lunch today was pizza, corn, mango, and milk. The current star rated license along with the Administrative Action is posted at the front entrance. The last fire drill was practiced on 7/31/2024. The last emergency drill, lockdown drill, was practiced on 7/30/2024 The last fire inspection was approved on 6/25/2024. The program’s most recent sanitation inspection was completed on 10/26/2023, with two (2) demerits. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. The program does not provide transportation. 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. There is eight (8) new staff member since the last annual compliance visit. The following staff files had concerns: staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid and CPR was not on file. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Existing staff files reviewed two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid and CPR certification prior to the expiration date. The following violations of child care requirements were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. .0601(c) 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. .0605(g) 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. In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. .0803(12) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. .1102(d) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. .1101(a)(b) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. .0801(b) Technical Assistance for Correction Plan: Item #705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. - On the pre-k playground, sharp edges were exposed on the lattice at the base of the climber. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the lattice needed to be replaces so that a child did not get cut from the sharp edges. She took a picture of the lattice and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Item #714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2” or greater than 9”. 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (g) Any openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing shall be smaller than 3 ½ inches or greater than 9 inches to prevent entrapment. - On the Walnut and Ginko playground that had an opening greater than 3 ½ inches. I discussed with Ms. Whitley that the gate needed to be adjusted so that a child did not get their arm or leg stuck if they attempted to stick their arm or leg through the opening. She took a picture and stated that she would submit this to the maintenance team to be fixed. Ms. Whitney contacted maintenance to adjust the gate during the visit. Maintenance corrected this during the visit. Item #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. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) 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 shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination, electronic or magnetic device, key, or equivalent locking device. These unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any product not listed above, which is labeled "keep out of reach of children" without any other warnings, shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. The product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. -In space #7 one (1) Bear Horn in aerosol can unlocked on shelf above the teacher counter. Ms. Whitley moved the Bear Horn to a lock box during the visit. Review with staff that any product in aerosol can must be stored in a locked cabinet. Item #841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (d) Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children, but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. -In space #4, one (1) bottle of Benadryl unlocked in the emergency backpack. The staff member removed the bottle of Benadryl from the emergency backpack and stored the bottle in the locking cabinet in the classroom during the visit. Review with staff items which medications are considered emergency medication and which are not. Items that are not considered emergency medications must be locked at all times. Item #849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. -In space #6, one (1) prescription medication permission to administer medication form expired on 3/20/2024. Ms. Whitley removed the medication from the room during the visit. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp.. - Two (2) staff members did not renew First Aid certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 First Aid was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. - Two (2) staff members did not renew CPR certification prior to the expiration date. One (1) new staff member hired 4/15/2024 CPR was not on file. I suggest documenting on a training calendar when all staff members certifications are due to remind you when each training should be completed. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center. - Staff member hired 5/13/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. Staff member hired 5/21/2024 documentation of orientation form was not completed. I suggest as you are completing orientation with new staff complete the documentation of orientation form as trainings are completed. Item #1835 The medical action plan did not contain the required information and/or was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT (b) For any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services, a medical action plan shall be attached to the application. The medical action plan shall be completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and may include the following: (1) a list of the child's diagnosis or diagnoses including dietary, environmental, and activity considerations that are applicable; (2) contact information for the child's health care professional(s); (3) medications to be administered on a scheduled basis; and (4) medications to be administered on an emergency basis with symptoms, and instructions. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers/pv_provideforms.asp; -In space #4, one (1) medical action plan that expired on 4/20/2024. The plan was dated 4/20/2023 and must be updated annually by the physician. I suggest having staff conduct a monthly medication check to ensure all medications and permission to administer medication forms are still current and up to date. Achieving Compliance: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license could be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 8/23/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - Rated License: We discussed options to renew the Rated License. With the extension of Hold Harmless bill, you do not have to renew the Rated License during this school year unless you choose to. Currently, new QRIS modernization projects is in the works. Facilities who can maintain or increase their star level can voluntarily apply to renew the rated license. -Reminder sippy cups used by the children must be labeled with name and date. -Prior to children playing on the closed pre-k playground ensure that staff dump standing water off of the trap that covers the sand box. -Health and Safety reminder- training form staff member hired 9/11/2023 is due by 9/11/2024. -Child Maltreatment Certificates ensure that each staff members certificate is printed from the prevent child abuse nc website after completion of training. 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 me, 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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. 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 Marcia Whitney, President and CEO, during the visit. An electronic copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-042L Visit Date: 5/21/2024 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 5/22/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 111 Time In: 01:54 PM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to follow up on the supervision violation that was cited during a complaint visit on 5/7/2024. Please refer to the visits dated 5/7/2024 for full details regarding the violation cited. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front office with Stephanie Kelly, and greeted by Hilary Biggar, Administrator. A handwritten report of today’s visit was completed, due to connectivity. The visit summary was reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hilary Biggar, Administrator, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left with you. Group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and nurture and care were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Additionally, I observed the indoor space used by the children. During the observation, I observed the children engaged in nap time and snack. When I arrived two (2) staff members were sitting at different tables with children who were eating snack. One (1) staff member was sitting on the couch in the book area comforting a child who was not ready to go to snack. At 2:15p, I observed a child on their cot cover their face with their blanket. At 2:16p the lights came on and the child pulled the cover off their head and covered their head back up. At 2:21p a staff member completed the name to face recognition. The staff member did not remove the blanket from the child’s face. At 2:25p the administrator walked over to the child whose face was covered and did not uncover the child’s face. At 2:26p another staff member walked over to the child whose face was covered and did not uncover the child’s face. At 2:33p the child uncovered their face by themselves when they woke up. Today, proper supervision was not observed. Item #303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. An incident that occurred on 5/2/2024. A child was left unattended on the playground for about fifteen (15) seconds. Since the incident on 5/2/2024, the following measure have been put into place: - Name to Face recognition checks every thirty (30) minutes. - Picture chart to move the child’s picture from the group to the location they are at. -Zoning - Staff have increased communication when moving to a different area of the indoor or outdoor space. Today, I observed name to face recognition completed, but was not fully implemented due to the child who covered their face at nap time. The staff did not uncover the child’s face during name to face recognition check to ensure the child was not having difficulty breathing or putting materials in their mouth. I discussed with the staff and administrator the importance of removing blankets from over the children’s face to ensure the child is ok and not having difficulty breathing. Ms. Biggars stated that this Friday, May 24th is a teacher workday and they will be reviewing safety and procedures with all staff. The following violation was documented during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. In space #7 with a group of two to three years, at 2:15p, I observed a three-year-old child on their cot cover their face with their blanket. At 2:16p the lights came on and the child pulled the cover off and covered their head back up. At 2:21p a staff member completed the name to face recognition. The staff member did not remove the blanket from the child’s face. At 2:25p the administrator walked over to the child whose face was covered and did not uncover the child’s face. At 2:26p another staff member walked over to the child whose face was covered and did not uncover the child’s face. At 2:33p the child uncovered their face by themselves when they woke up. ***REPEAT VIOLATION*** .1801(a)(1-5) Technical Assistance Item #303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. - In space #7 with a group of two to three year olds, at 2:15p, I observed a three year old child on their cot cover their face with their blanket. At 2:16p the lights came on and the child pulled the cover off and covered their head back up. At 2:21p a staff member completed the name to face recognition. The staff member did not remove the blanket from the child’s face. At 2:25p the administrator walked over to the child whose face was covered and did not uncover the child’s face. At 2:26p another staff member walked over to the child whose face was covered and did not uncover the child’s face. At 2:33p the child uncovered their face by themselves when they woke up. ***REPEAT VIOLATION*** Consultation We discussed the following: - Because a violation regarding supervision was cited during the 5/7/2024 visits, it could result in an Administrative Action. Refer to SECTION .2200 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES regarding Administrative Actions. - I suggested having Buncombe County Partnership for Child come in to provide an in-person active supervision training for staff. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-042L Visit Date: 5/7/2024 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 5/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 141 Time In: 10:24 AM Time Out: 12:25 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 01:50 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to investigate a self-reported complaint received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on 5/2/24 and sent to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, on 5/3/24. The reported concern is regarding supervision. The reported concern was self-reported via email by the facility’s Administrator, Hilary Biggar on 5/2/2024. Hilary Biggar, Administrator and Lisa Nesmith, Administrator were present and available to ask and answer questions throughout the visit today. Applicable child care requirements were monitored today including Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. During the observation, I observed the children engaged in gross motor play outdoors. Six (6) children were present with five (5) staff members. The children engaged in play with watercolor painting, ice play in the water table, story time with a book, sliding, riding trikes, and ball play. The staff were observed frequently scanning and counting the children, a thirty (30) minute name to face recognition was conducted and documented on the chart, and staff notified the other staff members when a child was taken from the group. Staff worked one on one with children, engaged in child directed play, and small groups. Staff gave a five (5) minute warning prior to cleaning up to transition indoors. When outdoor play concluded, the children and staff cleaned up and met at the covered area to prepare to transition indoors. Prior to transitioning indoors one (1) staff member identified that two (2) children and one (1) staff were currently indoors preparing for lunch by washing hands. Then counted the four (4) children that were outdoors with three (3) staff members. The staff member used the picture chart to move the children’s pictures to indoors on the chart as they entered the classroom to wash hands before lunch. After all the children were indoors, the staff counted the children and began washing hands and transitioning to the table for lunch. Today’s menu consisted of quiche, hashbrowns, strawberries, and milk. The staff sat with the children during lunch and engaged in conversations while supervising the children. Today, proper supervision was observed. I interviewed three (3) staff members present on the date of the alleged incident. Each staff member stated that they were transitioning in from outdoor play. The staff conducted head count before coming inside and conducted another head count once inside. The second head count was conducted prior to lunch, and one (1) staff member realized that they had accidentally left a child outside on the playground. The staff then proceeded to go to the door to check the playground. When they went to open the door, the child was standing at the door on the covered area. They stated that the child was confused as to why they left them on the playground. One (1) staff member then comforted the child and stated that they did not mean to leave them on the playground. Staff stated that the parents were notified of the incident and the child was not injured during the incident. Staff stated that they have ensured that name to face recognition is conducted every thirty (30) minutes, frequent scanning, more communication with the other staff members, visual picture chart is completed when a child moves from the group, and zoning. Based on information provided on 5/2/2024, staff interviews, and my observations, a two-year-old child was left unattended on the playground. The finding regarding the allegation of supervision was substantiated. The following violation was documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. An incident that occurred on 5/2/2024. A two year old child was left unattended on the playground for about fifteen (15) seconds. .1801(a)(1-5) Item 303 According to 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in childcare centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. - An incident that occurred on 5/2/2024. A two year old child was left unattended on the playground for about fifteen (15) seconds. Children must be actively supervised at all times. We discussed the current steps you are implementing to ensure this lapse in supervision does not occur in the future. You are utilizing a head count procedure. You are also reminding staff positioned at the back of the line to conduct a sweep of the playground prior to entering the classroom. In your letter of compliance, include a statement that indicates how you will ensure this violation does not occur in the future. Corrective Action Plan All violations are required to be corrected immediately. Due to the nature of violation cited during today’s visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. Please note that you must be in compliance with Child Care rules at all times. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 5/21/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that all staff must adhere to the requirements in NC Child Care rule at all times. Compliance must be maintained even when state representatives are not present at the facility. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and health of children in your care and are, therefore, required to be followed at all times. - Due to the substantiation of supervision concerns, a follow-up visit may be made. - Due to the substantiation of supervision concerns, an Administrative Action may be recommended. 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 licensing 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. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed. The report was reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hillary Biggar, Director, during the visit. An copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-042L Visit Date: 5/7/2024 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 5/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 141 Time In: 10:24 AM Time Out: 12:25 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 01:50 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to investigate a self-reported complaint received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on 5/2/24 and sent to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, on 5/3/24. The reported concern is regarding supervision. The reported concern was self-reported via email by the facility’s Administrator, Hilary Biggar on 5/2/2024. Hilary Biggar, Administrator and Lisa Nesmith, Administrator were present and available to ask and answer questions throughout the visit today. Applicable child care requirements were monitored today including Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. During the observation, I observed the children engaged in gross motor play outdoors. Six (6) children were present with five (5) staff members. The children engaged in play with watercolor painting, ice play in the water table, story time with a book, sliding, riding trikes, and ball play. The staff were observed frequently scanning and counting the children, a thirty (30) minute name to face recognition was conducted and documented on the chart, and staff notified the other staff members when a child was taken from the group. Staff worked one on one with children, engaged in child directed play, and small groups. Staff gave a five (5) minute warning prior to cleaning up to transition indoors. When outdoor play concluded, the children and staff cleaned up and met at the covered area to prepare to transition indoors. Prior to transitioning indoors one (1) staff member identified that two (2) children and one (1) staff were currently indoors preparing for lunch by washing hands. Then counted the four (4) children that were outdoors with three (3) staff members. The staff member used the picture chart to move the children’s pictures to indoors on the chart as they entered the classroom to wash hands before lunch. After all the children were indoors, the staff counted the children and began washing hands and transitioning to the table for lunch. Today’s menu consisted of quiche, hashbrowns, strawberries, and milk. The staff sat with the children during lunch and engaged in conversations while supervising the children. Today, proper supervision was observed. I interviewed three (3) staff members present on the date of the alleged incident. Each staff member stated that they were transitioning in from outdoor play. The staff conducted head count before coming inside and conducted another head count once inside. The second head count was conducted prior to lunch, and one (1) staff member realized that they had accidentally left a child outside on the playground. The staff then proceeded to go to the door to check the playground. When they went to open the door, the child was standing at the door on the covered area. They stated that the child was confused as to why they left them on the playground. One (1) staff member then comforted the child and stated that they did not mean to leave them on the playground. Staff stated that the parents were notified of the incident and the child was not injured during the incident. Staff stated that they have ensured that name to face recognition is conducted every thirty (30) minutes, frequent scanning, more communication with the other staff members, visual picture chart is completed when a child moves from the group, and zoning. Based on information provided on 5/2/2024, staff interviews, and my observations, a two-year-old child was left unattended on the playground. The finding regarding the allegation of supervision was substantiated. The following violation was documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. An incident that occurred on 5/2/2024. A two year old child was left unattended on the playground for about fifteen (15) seconds. .1801(a)(1-5) Item 303 According to 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in childcare centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. - An incident that occurred on 5/2/2024. A two year old child was left unattended on the playground for about fifteen (15) seconds. Children must be actively supervised at all times. We discussed the current steps you are implementing to ensure this lapse in supervision does not occur in the future. You are utilizing a head count procedure. You are also reminding staff positioned at the back of the line to conduct a sweep of the playground prior to entering the classroom. In your letter of compliance, include a statement that indicates how you will ensure this violation does not occur in the future. Corrective Action Plan All violations are required to be corrected immediately. Due to the nature of violation cited during today’s visit, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted. Please note that you must be in compliance with Child Care rules at all times. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 5/21/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Consultation: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that all staff must adhere to the requirements in NC Child Care rule at all times. Compliance must be maintained even when state representatives are not present at the facility. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and health of children in your care and are, therefore, required to be followed at all times. - Due to the substantiation of supervision concerns, a follow-up visit may be made. - Due to the substantiation of supervision concerns, an Administrative Action may be recommended. 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 licensing 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. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed. The report was reviewed with you, and signed by Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Hillary Biggar, Director, during the visit. An copy of the visit summary was left with 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-279L Visit Date: 1/31/2024 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 1/31/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 02:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to investigate a complaint received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on 1/25/2024 and sent to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, on 1/26/2024. The reported concern is regarding supervision. The reported concern was self-reported via email by the facility’s Administrator, Gabriel Guyton on 1/25/2024. 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 Marcia Whitney, CEO, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk and was greeted by Ms. Biggar. Per the report, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Verner, during routine classroom transitions from inside to the outside playground, a child was inadvertently left unattended for a very brief period. Upon discovery, immediate action was taken to ensure the child's safety and well-being. The incident was reported to the child's parents, and appropriate measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence. An observation was conducted in space #9 with to monitor supervision. Today, I observed the group of three- to four-year-old children engaged in free play with puzzles, blocks, dramatic play, free art, and play dough. While the children were engaged in free play, the three (3) staff members present in the classroom were moving about the classroom engaging in play and conversations with the children. One (1) teacher and a child rang the bell to let the other children in the class know that they had five (5) more minutes to play before they needed to clean-up. After the five (5) minutes the teacher told the children it was time to clean up. The children began cleaning up and preparing for story time. Then the teachers began singing a song to let the children know it was time to come to the carpet for story time. Each of the children transitioned to the carpet except for one (1) child who was crying and laying on the floor refusing to go to the carpet. The director and assistant teacher assisted the child by offering to take the pigeon to the carpet with the child and asking if the child needed a diaper change. The child calmed down and the director and assistant teacher was able to get the child to agree to a diaper change. After the child’s diaper was changed and washed hands, the child transitioned to the carpet with the rest of the children and staff to finish group time. When group time concluded, the children began to put on their coats and line up to transition outdoors for gross motor play. One (1) staff member was near where the children line up and two (2) staff members were near the cubbies assisting the children with putting on their coats. Once all of the children had their coats on, one (1) staff member was at the door in front of the line, one (1) staff member was assisting a child who was upset, and the other staff member was halfway back in the line. The staff member at the door was observed counting the children three (3) different times prior to opening the door to transition outdoors. As the class transitioned outdoors, the staff member at the front of the line lead the children onto the playground, the staff member halfway back in the line ensure the remaining children made it out, and the other staff member that was assisting the upset child ensured everyone was out of the room prior to closing the door. Once outdoors, one (1) staff member was assisting with getting the trikes and the other staff member was supervising the children. Two (2) children ran to the porch area the staff member moved to see the children and notified the other teacher that they needed to get the children off the porch. Then the assistant teacher arrived on the playground to assist with supervision. During the observation, supervision was adequate. All staff interactions were positive and appropriate. There have been no other reported incidents of inadequate supervision since the incident that led to the complaint. During today’s visit, I interviewed two (2) staff members that were present on the day of the incident, and monitored the name to face recognition forms that are completed every thirty (30) minutes. Staff members interviewed stated, on the day of the incident 1/24/2024, was not a typical day the lead teacher was absent and the assistant teacher that was present had a substitute and a floater in the classroom with her. The day was currently already off due to the lead teacher’s absence and the children were restless. The staff stated they conducted a quick group time and lined up to get outside. Before exiting the room, the staff were assisting the children with putting their coats on and some children in line began attempting to harm one another and the assistant teacher went over to the line to assist the children. After assisting the children who were attempting to harm one another, the assistant teacher began to start taking the children out and failed to notify the other staff members how many she had. When the class exited the room going outside on the playground, a teacher from another classroom observed that all of the children did not make it outside. The teacher from the other classroom told the substitute teacher that exited the classroom last that all the children did not make it outside on the playground with rest of the class. The substitute teacher notified the assistant teacher that she was returning inside due to a child was left in the classroom. When the substitute teacher returned indoors, she found the child in the dramatic play center in the back of the classroom sitting on the floor in front of the bookshelf. The Administrator was immediately made aware of the incident. She went to the classroom to check on the well-being of the child who did not show any signs of being upset or being aware of being left behind. The administrator also spoke with the two (2) teachers regarding the importance of counting, scanning and the “Name to Face” log at every transition as well as generally double checking the classroom for children when transitioning to the playground. The child’s family was notified and met with the Lead Teacher and Administrator in the facility’s office the day of the incident. Ms. Guyton stated that the following measures have been put in place to address the incident and help prevent a future occurrence of inadequate supervision: The staff involved have been reminded of the importance of maintaining constant vigilance during transitions. Administrative actions will take place. Additional training on supervision protocols is being scheduled for all staff members. A thorough review of our procedures is underway to identify areas for improvement and prevent similar incidents in the future. The following was determined: There is a concern that children are not adequately supervised. Based on the self-report of the incident, and the information received from the staff interviewed the complaint is substantiated. The following violation was documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. In space #9, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, during routine classroom transitions from inside to the outside playground, a child was inadvertently left unattended for a very brief period. Upon discovery, immediate action was taken to ensure the child's safety and well-being. The incident was reported to the child's parents, and appropriate measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence. .1801(a)(1-5) Item #303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. -In space #9, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, during routine classroom transitions from inside to the outside playground, a child was inadvertently left unattended for a very brief period. Upon discovery, immediate action was taken to ensure the child's safety and well-being. The incident was reported to the child's parents, and appropriate measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence. Corrective Action Plan: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license may be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/14/2024. A follow-up visit will be conducted to ensure that this violation is being corrected. Because a violation regarding supervision was cited it could result in and Administrative Action. Refer to SECTION .2200 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES regarding Administrative Actions. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The following consultation was provided: I recommend the following: Assign a staff member to walk around the room prior to exiting the classroom to ensure a child is not hiding in the centers due to several areas are difficult to supervise at all times. The one (1) shelf between the science and block area with the clear back, the staff should remove several of the pictures to assist with supervision of the block center. In the dramatic play center, look at moving the bookshelf to another location to ensure that it does not obstruct supervision. Zoning the classroom to assist with supervision. When one (1) staff member moves from one (1) zone to notify the other staff members to ensure they move to another zone to ensure that everyone is supervised at all times. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-279L Visit Date: 1/31/2024 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 1/31/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 02:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to investigate a complaint received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on 1/25/2024 and sent to Karla Terry, Child Care Consultant, on 1/26/2024. The reported concern is regarding supervision. The reported concern was self-reported via email by the facility’s Administrator, Gabriel Guyton on 1/25/2024. 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 Marcia Whitney, CEO, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk and was greeted by Ms. Biggar. Per the report, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Verner, during routine classroom transitions from inside to the outside playground, a child was inadvertently left unattended for a very brief period. Upon discovery, immediate action was taken to ensure the child's safety and well-being. The incident was reported to the child's parents, and appropriate measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence. An observation was conducted in space #9 with to monitor supervision. Today, I observed the group of three- to four-year-old children engaged in free play with puzzles, blocks, dramatic play, free art, and play dough. While the children were engaged in free play, the three (3) staff members present in the classroom were moving about the classroom engaging in play and conversations with the children. One (1) teacher and a child rang the bell to let the other children in the class know that they had five (5) more minutes to play before they needed to clean-up. After the five (5) minutes the teacher told the children it was time to clean up. The children began cleaning up and preparing for story time. Then the teachers began singing a song to let the children know it was time to come to the carpet for story time. Each of the children transitioned to the carpet except for one (1) child who was crying and laying on the floor refusing to go to the carpet. The director and assistant teacher assisted the child by offering to take the pigeon to the carpet with the child and asking if the child needed a diaper change. The child calmed down and the director and assistant teacher was able to get the child to agree to a diaper change. After the child’s diaper was changed and washed hands, the child transitioned to the carpet with the rest of the children and staff to finish group time. When group time concluded, the children began to put on their coats and line up to transition outdoors for gross motor play. One (1) staff member was near where the children line up and two (2) staff members were near the cubbies assisting the children with putting on their coats. Once all of the children had their coats on, one (1) staff member was at the door in front of the line, one (1) staff member was assisting a child who was upset, and the other staff member was halfway back in the line. The staff member at the door was observed counting the children three (3) different times prior to opening the door to transition outdoors. As the class transitioned outdoors, the staff member at the front of the line lead the children onto the playground, the staff member halfway back in the line ensure the remaining children made it out, and the other staff member that was assisting the upset child ensured everyone was out of the room prior to closing the door. Once outdoors, one (1) staff member was assisting with getting the trikes and the other staff member was supervising the children. Two (2) children ran to the porch area the staff member moved to see the children and notified the other teacher that they needed to get the children off the porch. Then the assistant teacher arrived on the playground to assist with supervision. During the observation, supervision was adequate. All staff interactions were positive and appropriate. There have been no other reported incidents of inadequate supervision since the incident that led to the complaint. During today’s visit, I interviewed two (2) staff members that were present on the day of the incident, and monitored the name to face recognition forms that are completed every thirty (30) minutes. Staff members interviewed stated, on the day of the incident 1/24/2024, was not a typical day the lead teacher was absent and the assistant teacher that was present had a substitute and a floater in the classroom with her. The day was currently already off due to the lead teacher’s absence and the children were restless. The staff stated they conducted a quick group time and lined up to get outside. Before exiting the room, the staff were assisting the children with putting their coats on and some children in line began attempting to harm one another and the assistant teacher went over to the line to assist the children. After assisting the children who were attempting to harm one another, the assistant teacher began to start taking the children out and failed to notify the other staff members how many she had. When the class exited the room going outside on the playground, a teacher from another classroom observed that all of the children did not make it outside. The teacher from the other classroom told the substitute teacher that exited the classroom last that all the children did not make it outside on the playground with rest of the class. The substitute teacher notified the assistant teacher that she was returning inside due to a child was left in the classroom. When the substitute teacher returned indoors, she found the child in the dramatic play center in the back of the classroom sitting on the floor in front of the bookshelf. The Administrator was immediately made aware of the incident. She went to the classroom to check on the well-being of the child who did not show any signs of being upset or being aware of being left behind. The administrator also spoke with the two (2) teachers regarding the importance of counting, scanning and the “Name to Face” log at every transition as well as generally double checking the classroom for children when transitioning to the playground. The child’s family was notified and met with the Lead Teacher and Administrator in the facility’s office the day of the incident. Ms. Guyton stated that the following measures have been put in place to address the incident and help prevent a future occurrence of inadequate supervision: The staff involved have been reminded of the importance of maintaining constant vigilance during transitions. Administrative actions will take place. Additional training on supervision protocols is being scheduled for all staff members. A thorough review of our procedures is underway to identify areas for improvement and prevent similar incidents in the future. The following was determined: There is a concern that children are not adequately supervised. Based on the self-report of the incident, and the information received from the staff interviewed the complaint is substantiated. The following violation was documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. In space #9, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, during routine classroom transitions from inside to the outside playground, a child was inadvertently left unattended for a very brief period. Upon discovery, immediate action was taken to ensure the child's safety and well-being. The incident was reported to the child's parents, and appropriate measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence. .1801(a)(1-5) Item #303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. -In space #9, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, during routine classroom transitions from inside to the outside playground, a child was inadvertently left unattended for a very brief period. Upon discovery, immediate action was taken to ensure the child's safety and well-being. The incident was reported to the child's parents, and appropriate measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence. Corrective Action Plan: All violations are required to be corrected immediately. However, if at any time you are unable to correct all violations within the specified time frame, please send a written statement regarding those violations that were corrected and include a specific plan for correction of the remaining violations. Please be aware that any written information submitted by you regarding correction of violations documented during today’s visit would be considered as legal documentation. Therefore, it is important that all information submitted be accurate and truthful. Please be aware that if it is determined that information submitted was inaccurate or willfully falsified, an Administrative Action, including Revocation of the facility’s license may be issued. 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/14/2024. A follow-up visit will be conducted to ensure that this violation is being corrected. Because a violation regarding supervision was cited it could result in and Administrative Action. Refer to SECTION .2200 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES regarding Administrative Actions. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, if you need assistance. Please note: if mailing the letter of compliance, I must receive 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 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. Falsification of any information may result in a revocation of your license. You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Please note any violations cited today and during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. The following consultation was provided: I recommend the following: Assign a staff member to walk around the room prior to exiting the classroom to ensure a child is not hiding in the centers due to several areas are difficult to supervise at all times. The one (1) shelf between the science and block area with the clear back, the staff should remove several of the pictures to assist with supervision of the block center. In the dramatic play center, look at moving the bookshelf to another location to ensure that it does not obstruct supervision. Zoning the classroom to assist with supervision. When one (1) staff member moves from one (1) zone to notify the other staff members to ensure they move to another zone to ensure that everyone is supervised at all times. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1101 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .2830 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

10A NCAC 09 .3009 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

G.S. 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: VERNER Facility ID: 11000456 Consultant: KARLA TERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance 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 Stephanie Kelly, Director of Operations and Gabriel Guyton, Administrator, during the visit. Kaoru Eddins, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me today. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Upon arrival, I checked in at the front desk. Then we were greeted by Gabriel Guyton, Administrator. Ms. Guyton, Ms. Kelly, and Hillary Biggar, Director was on-site and available to assist during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. An annual compliance monitoring checklist for child care centers was used to note the requirements monitored and is attached to the computerized generated visit summary for your records. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-five percent (85%) as of 1/23/2024. The North Carolina Secretary of State website was viewed prior to today’s visit and the Non-Profit Corporation, Verner, is current/active as of 1/23/2024. The program operates with a Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 6/10/2022. The permit restrictions were in compliance including first shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and approved for NC Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start. NC Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care Designation. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 1/31/2023. The last fire drill was practiced on 12/19/2023. The last lockdown drill was practiced on 10/26/2023. The last playground inspection was documented on 1/3/2024. The last fire inspection was approved on 6/6/2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/26/2023 with two (2) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum. In space #1 (Tupelo), a group of an infant and one-year-old children explored the environment. The children walked/crawled around, looked at themselves in the mirrors and making noise using wooden blocks. Bottles are made as needed in the classroom. There was one (1) crib for one (1) child in the classroom. Other children sleep on the cots. The crib is used as an emergency crib. Feeding plans were not located in the classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately, and the permission forms were all current. In space #2 (Cherry), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in free play. There were three (3) children with one (1) teacher in the classroom. The other three (3) teachers played in space #10 with the other teacher. The children in the classroom engaged in brush paint and other classroom materials. There are corn starch and dirt sensory buckets available to the children. Herbal insect repellent and diaper creams were stored appropriately in the bathroom, and the permission forms were valid. An emergency medication along with the action plan and the permission form were stored in the backpack. All forms as well as medication are current. In space #3 (Elm), a group of three-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play with kinetic sand with toy vehicles, glue and creative art materials, blocks, kitchen accessories, magnetic tiles, beads and strings. There were three (3) therapists present in the classroom. No emergency medications were maintained in the classroom. Over-the-counter medications were maintained appropriately with proper paperwork. In space #4 (Balsam), a group of four-to-five-year-old children engaged in free play. The children actively engaged in various free play activities, including cutting papers, blocks, science and manipulatives. There is one (1) emergency medication in the classroom. The action plan and the permission form were valid. In space #5 (Walnut), a group of two-year-old children participated in a group time. The teachers and the children sang about schedule, then transitioned to the playground. The children played with riding toy, tires and pretend kitchen. Equipment in the playground is low to the ground and do not require fall zones. Lunch time and rest time were observed in this classroom. One (1) teacher sat at the table and engaged in conversation while four (4) children had lunch. One (1) teacher held a child and supervised another who was on the cot. Lighting was appropriate. In space #6 (Ginko), a group of one-to-two-year-old children played on the playground. The group was combined with the children from space #5 (Walnut) on the playground. In the classroom space #6, diaper creams were appropriately stored in the diaper changing area, and the forms were current. The cots were placed by a support staff member while the children were on the playground. Two (2) cots in the library area/puzzle shelf were placed sixteen (16) inches apart. In space #7 (Dogwood), a group of two-to-three-year-old children engaged in the gross motor activities on the playground. One (1) of the teachers brought three (3) children for a bathroom. The children’s hands were washed appropriately. The teacher sang a song as the children washed their hands. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission plans. The Action plan for the emergency medication expires today. We discussed renewal of the paperwork. Lunch time was observed in this classroom. Today’s menu was pizza, peach fruit cup and sliced watermelons. The menu is posted in the front entrance door. The correction was written on the menu. Space #8 is no longer used by the children. It is currently used as an office space. Space #9 (Maple), a group of three-to-four-year-old children engaged in free play using playdough, Legos, Train tracks, blocks, science materials. Five (5) minute reminder was given to the children before clean-up time. No emergency medications were maintained in this classroom. Diaper creams were stored appropriately with current permission forms. Space #10 is located by the classroom space #2 (Cherry). There was some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, balls, sensory gloves and books. Three (3) children from space #2 were present in the classroom. There is some gross motor equipment in space #11, such as exercise mat, climber, scarves and music instruments. Space #12 is used as a therapy room. There is some gross motor equipment, such as a climber, spinner, one-person trampoline and see-saw. Brush paint and other indoor materials were also available. The teachers in each classroom fill out name-to-face chart every thirty (30) minutes. The forms were filled out adequately. Supervision and interactions were adequate in each classroom. In space #5, a part of the classroom was separated to create a storage space. The classroom and the storage are separated by a baby gate. The storage space was measured. Per space calculation sheet, the classroom is measured for 716.66 square feet and approved for twenty-four (24) children for thirty (30) square feet per child. The program does not provide transportation. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the childcare rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. You stated you have completed the developmental screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress and documentation was viewed today. The first day of school was August 28, 2023. The classroom operates from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parent conferences and home visit are held two (2) times per year. You stated that you use Story Park and Ready Rosie to communicate with parents. In addition, a newsletter is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders. You verified that you incorporate family engagement by showing the family engagement log. 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 were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding plans were not posted in space #1 (Tupelo). 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Two (2) cots in the library area was sixteen (16) inches apart in space #6 (Ginko). 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first six weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed within the first two weeks. .1101(a)(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. - Feeding plans for children under fifteen (15) months of age shall be posted in the classroom. All feeding plans shall be signed by the parent. I suggest that when a new infant begins and the facility receives the feeding plan to review the plan and post prior to the child starting. Item# 614 Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821 BEDS, COTS, MATS, AND LINENS (e) When in use, cribs, cots, mats and playpens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions which prevent physical contact. - Cots shall be at least eighteen (18) inches apart when placed to avoid cross contaminations. I suggest adding a piece of tape on the floor to be a marker for cot placement. Item #1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS (a) Health and emergency information shall be obtained for staff members as specified in the chart below: Required for: Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, including the director. Item Requirements: Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Due Date: Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. -Staff OR hired 10/30/2023 medical report on file was older than twelve months. I suggest reviewing medical reports prior to the staff members first day to ensure reports are current and up to date. Item #1045 New staff who have contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hours of orientation within first 6 weeks. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first six weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. 10A NCAC 09 .1101 NEW STAFF ORIENTATION REQUIREMENTS (a) Each center shall ensure that each new employee who is expected to have contact with children receives 16 hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. As part of this orientation, each new employee shall complete six hours of orientation within the first two weeks of employment. (b) New staff orientation shall include an overview of the following topics, focusing on the operation of the center: New staff orientation within first two (2) weeks of employment: Information regarding recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment pursuant to G.S. 110-105.4 and G.S. 7B-301; Review of the center's operational policies, including the center's safe sleep policy for infants, the center's policy for transportation, the center's identification of building and premises safety issues, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and the emergency medical care plan; Adequate supervision of children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .1801; Information regarding prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma and child maltreatment; Prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunization. New staff orientation within first six (6) weeks of employment Firsthand observation of the center's daily operations; Instruction in the employee's assigned duties; Instruction in the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment; Instruction in the administration of medication to children in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .0803; Review of the center's purposes and goals; Review of the child care licensing law and rules; Review of Section .2800 of this Chapter if the center has a two- through five- star license at the time of employment; An explanation of the role of State and local government agencies in the regulation of child care, their impact on the operation of the center, and their availability as a resource; An explanation of the employee's obligation to cooperate with representatives of State and local government agencies during visits and investigations; Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; Review of the center's handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants. -Staff member KC Hired 6/15/2022 was not completed withing the first two weeks. I suggest reviewing the documentation of orientation to ensure each topic is addressed within the specific timeframe. Also, add a reminder to your calendar to assist with tracking deadlines. Item #1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule .1101 of this Section. The following persons shall be exempt from this requirement: (1) staff members that do not have caregiving responsibilities for a child or group of children; (2) service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists; and (3) substitute providers who provide services for less than 10 days in a 12-month period. -Staff members FS hired 10/11/2022 and staff member BG hired 9/19/2022 health and safety training topics were not completed within the first year of employment. I suggest ensuring training certificates are added to the file upon completion of the training and documented on the log. Add the deadline date to your calendar or keep a spreadsheet with all staff’s training dates and when they are due to help avoid missing deadlines. Corrective Action Plan: 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# • Date of visit • Violation item number • Statement of compliance I must receive your compliance statement by 2/8/2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position 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 karla.terry@dhhs.nc.gov, 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: Today, we discussed the following: - We discussed that you are a part of Cohort 2 for rated license reassessments. The program’s year of preparation will begin 7/1/2024 and end 6/30/2025. The assessment year will begin 7/1/2025 and end 6/30/2026. We discussed that each staff member will need to ensure their WORKS account is up to date and reflects the most current education. Also, be sure to take advantage of the preparation year assessment. The benefits of taking advantage to the preparation year assessment are the scores do not have to count, assessment results can help build understanding of the current program situations, and programs can choose to have additional assessments later for licensure. Please review the Preparation Year: Environment Rating Scale Assessment and Preparation Year: Activities and Ideas for cohort 1, 2, and 3 resources that I left with you today. -Staff emergency information for staff need to add health care professional information. -Children emergency information needs to update annually. -Reminders for medication: Albuterol Sulfate 90 mcg in space #4 (Balsam) will expire on 1/31/24. Please send the medication form within seventy-two (72) hours of expiration date. Action plan for an inhaler in space #7 (Dogwood) is expiring at the end of today. The action plan can be filled out by the parent and/or a physician. Please renew the action plan today. The permission plan for the inhaler will expire on 2/4/24. The permission form for A+D Treat Diaper cream will expire on 2/7/24 in space #7 (Dogwood). In space #9 (Maple), the permission form for Destine will expire on 2/15/24, and the form for Aquaphor will expire on 2/14/24. Both permission forms are for the same child. -Menu: For today’s lunch, pizza and fruits were served to the children. Some children received peach fruit cup, and other children received sliced watermelon. Some children received both. On the menu, the corrections were made, and pizza and fruit cup were listed but not watermelon. All served items shall be listed on the menu. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Stabilization Grant, please contact Kaitlyn Marshall, Child Care Consultant, at 828-713-8192 or email kaitlyn.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov. 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. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2830 MAINTAINING THE STAR RATING (a)A representative of the Division may make announced or unannounced visits to facilities to assess on-going compliance with the requirements of a star rating after it has been issued. 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. Failure to maintain the same education point level may result in a violation of the above rule reference and may result in a reduction of stars. 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 licensing 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 bonnie.mathis@dhhs.nc.gov. 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