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Home › NC › Boone › Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K
361 Jefferson Road, Boone NC 28607 · License #95000080 · Center · Child Care Center
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10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
Data synced from North Carolina's child care licensing agency on Jul 9, 2026 · Report an error
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1703 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .3205 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .3209 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .3210 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .3219 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .3221 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .3222 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/24/2026 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 3/24/2026 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an Annual Compliance with a Rated License Assessment visit. I am conducting this second annual compliance visit due to the last AC visit was the second week of school. A computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, during the visit. A signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site with you. Elizabeth Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, was available during the visit to assist me and answer my questions. The administrator, Travis Gillespie, is the principal of the entire school. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, discipline, nutrition and routine caregiving activities. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-seven percent (97%) as of 3/16/2026. This NC-Pre-k facility is owned and operated by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) Star Rated License, issued 1/23/2023. Special Services/Restrictions – first shift only, meeting reduced ratios, meets enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 9/3/2025. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/25/2026. The last lock down drill was practiced on 1/13/2026. The last playground inspection was documented on 2/13/2026. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/2025. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/13/2025 with five (5) demerits for a superior classification. The program does provide transportation on three (3) public school buses. You stated that you transport approximately nine (9) children, ages 4 to 5 years old, for morning and afternoon routes. The approved curriculum Creative Curriculum. Approved formative assessment Teaching Strategies Gold. The annual compliance full monitoring was conducted on September 3, 2025, and again during today’s visit. Some staff files, two (2) children files, and program records were monitored during the visits. 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. It was signed by the administrator and dated 10/31/25. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. When I arrived, children were playing in centers with a variety of materials. A group of children were building in blocks and using small blocks as pretend cars. One child was painting at the easel, a group of children were drawing and writing at a table in the art area, a group of children were building structures with the Lego’s, and another group were taking care of babies in dramatic play. The teachers were moving around the room interacting with all the children. They were assisting them as they needed it, asking open-ended questions, expanding on their ideas and listening to their ideas. After cleaning up, the children gathered in the group area for a story, music and movement. As one teacher cleaned the tables and sat out the lunch. Children transitioned over to wash their hands and sit down for lunch. After lunch everyone cleaned up and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Once awake, children ate snack and explored around the classroom. Lunch today consisted of chicken soft tacos, tortilla chips, refried beans, corn on the cob, raisins and milk. Rated License Information: The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued 5/9/2022, earning seven (7) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component with a score of 5.86 on the ECERS-R (meeting enhanced space) and one (1) quality point. I received the Star Rated License application on 3/9/26, applying for Pathway #2, Classroom and Instructional Quality. Your new Five (5) Star License is based on the following: PATHWAY #2 – Classroom and Instructional Quality. The following was verified to be in process or completed for the classroom and instructional quality pathway based on five (5) star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3205 CLASSROOM AND INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY PATHWAY FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *You are choosing reduced staff/child ratios and enhanced space options at the five-star level. 10A NCAC 09 .3209 REDUCED, ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) This Rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers. (b) Enhanced staff/child ratio means that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 2 to 3 Years 1/8 16 3 to 4 Years 1/9 18 4 to 5 Years 1/12 24 5 to 6 Years 1/14 25 10A NCAC 09 .3210 ENHANCED SPACE REQUIRMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS In order for a child care center to meet enhanced space requirements: (1) There shall be at least 30 square feet inside space per child per the total licensed capacity and 100 square feet outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time; and (2) There shall be an area that can be arranged for administrative and private conference activities. *The program receives NC Pre-Kindergarten funding and must adhere to NC Pre-Kindergarten staff/child ratios of 1/10 with a group size of 20. 10A NCAC 09 .3219 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS *Evidence of implementing family and community engagement foundational practices. The following was verified during the visit and the form was collected. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided communication documentation as evidence of responsive communication with families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies an annual family conference is offered. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility offers annual opportunities for families to share cultural heritage in the classroom *Required for two-star or higher. The facility provided a pre-k welcome letter that verifies the program offers volunteer opportunities to families. *Required for two-star or higher. The facility uses Ready Rosie and in-person communication to communicate with families regarding available resources. *C-1 A family communication survey is sent to families at the beginning of the school year to learn about home language, preferred communication methods and best ways to share information. Weekly updates are sent home each week in the child’s folder, which includes weekly plans, upcoming events, and ways to participate. The email version provides parents with an option to translate the message. Parents are enrolled in Ready Rosie and receive tests or emails with weekly videos with modeled activities. *C-3 The first parent teacher conference was held on October 29, 2025. At this conference the staff reviewed the developmental screening assessment, and the Fall Creative Curriculum assessments were reviewed and goals for each child were discussed. The second parent teacher conference will be held in April 2026. On this day, teachers and parents will review the Spring Creative Curriculum assessment and talk about the transition to Kindergarten. *EL-2 Beginning of the year classroom visits were August 14, 15, 18 and 19, 2025, in which students and families were able to meet the teachers and visit the classroom prior to the students’ first day of school. Children started school on a staggered entry schedule over three days. *EO-1 Family Literacy Night was offered 3/19/26. Stations were set up for families with literacy goals at each station, a book about Pete the Cat was read together, made a treat together, used play dough to retell the story. They crafted their names on their yellow shirts and then got to wear them home. The event had pizza and grapes for everyone. 10A NCAC 09 .3221 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) STANDARDS *Evidence of implementing continuous quality improvement (CQI) plans for the facility and individual staff. The CQI plan for the facility has been completed; the form was received prior to the visit. The individual CQI plans for the two (2) main teachers were verified. The staff CQI plans must be completed by each staff member’s one year of employment. Reminder that the CQI plans are continuous and once one is completed, another must be started to meet this annual requirement. *Evidence of the lead teacher completing training related to the curriculum and formative assessment tool that is used by the center with children. Training certificates for Teaching Strategies were available for review for the lead teacher. *Evidence of the administrator participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f,10). You stated that you are part of the Pathways to Accreditation Program NC Pre- K Cohort at The Children’s Council of Watauga County (Partnership for Children). Reminder that this is an annual requirement and must be completed on or before each staff member’s year of employment, and every year thereafter. * Evidence of all lead teachers participating in one activity regarding classroom and instructional quality practices as outlined in the child care rule .3205 (f, 10). annual completion of five hours of coaching or mentoring by an administrator of another licensed child care center with a star-rating of five stars, or a community resource partner *Staff education evaluation of fifty percent (50%) of lead teachers and fifty percent (50%) of other educators resulting in staff education at the five-star level. It is the center operator’s responsibility to make sure each staff person has registered for a WORKS account, submitted an official transcript (if applicable) and applied 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. *T. Gillespie, Administrator, has been evaluated as a Level III Administrator with three (3) years or more administrative work experience. *E. Hutelmyer, Lead Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI lead teacher with 4-year degree in Birth-Kindergarten with twenty-two (22) years’ experience. *P. Horton, Teacher, has been evaluated and is qualified as a DPI teacher with a 2-year degree in Early Childhood Education with fourteen (14) years’ experience. *Evidence of implementing a curriculum that has been approved by the Commission. The curriculum implemented Creative Curriculum. It was verified during the visit that the one (1) classroom was implementing the Creative Curriculum as activity plans and parent/teacher conference preparations. *Evidence of conducting on-going formative assessments that have been approved by the Commission and sharing results with parents at least twice annually. The approved assessment used is GOLD by Teaching Strategies. It was verified during the visit that on-going formative assessments were in process of being shared with parents October 29, 2025, and will be shared again with parents in April, 2026. Evidence of observations being completed were verified through the Teaching Strategies application, Smart Teach. There were pictures, work samples, portfolios, and anecdotal notes. *Per NC Pre-Kindergarten requirements an environment rating scale is needed in order to meet requirements for funding. The request for environment rating scales was received on 2/26/2026, and the scales were ordered. The facility currently has a four (4) week window of 5/4/2026 to 5/29/2026. After completion of the ECERS-3 assessment, I will schedule a visit to review the report and score with you. Based on verification of requirements in the .3205 section of the child care rules, a five-star license has been earned. After final review, a different star level may be determined. Any discrepancies would be reviewed with you. A rated license is evaluated every three years, and the facility will be due again for a rated license assessment by March 2029. At each annual compliance visit, rated license components chosen will be monitored for meeting compliance. We discussed the recognition of quality initiatives, and I left a copy with you. You can email me to let me know if you would like to include the recognition of quality initiatives with your rated license packet. The completed form would need to be received by 3/31/2026 if you would like to include it in your packet. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 All stationary equipment, more than 18 inches high, was not installed over protective surfacing. The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the red climber, the mulch measured approximately 1 inch instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(j) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item # 716 The surfacing (mulch) next to the skunk rocker measured 4 inches deep instead of the required 6 inches. At the climber the mulch only measured one inch deep. *Ask maintenance if the footer is buried deep enough. Also get the children to help rake and fluff the mulch. 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 April 7, 2026. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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: • ABCMS- Continue to update the staff roster as needed in the ABCMS portal. 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. • We discussed that P.H. & E. H. will need to renew their first aid and CPR in June 2026. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-434-0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I greeted Ms. Hutelmyer and explained the reason for my visit. When I arrived, the children spread out all over the classroom with individual "Book Buddies" from 5th grade. These 5th graders come in an read a special book with their book buddy. After book buddies left, the children met for group time where they had a "Mat Man" session. This is a lesson of shapes, body parts, senses and even patterns using shapes to create "Mat Man". This Mat Man was Cat in the Hat themed. A gross motor/music and movement activity occurred while lunch was put on the tables by the other teacher. Lunch today consisted of pizza sticks with marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, blueberries and milk. This facility is owned and operated by the Watauga County Schools and housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. There were no new teachers at this facility. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. I shared the facility compliance history with you today which was ninety-three (93%) percent as of 3/5/25. The last annual compliance visit was 9/17/24. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 1/23/23 Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space, meets reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/26/25. An shelter in place drill was conducted on 2/3/25. The last fire inspection was 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 11/7/24 with seven (7) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. There were no violations documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. An Epi pen and Benadryl did not have a parent authorization form from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Technical assistance: *A child had an Epi pen and Benadryl with an Asthma Action Plan filled out, but did not have written authorization from the parent. 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 March 19, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828.434.0236, or email lee.marshall@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. 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 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. Consultation is provided as follows: • Lead and asbestos testing deadlines have been extended till May 2025 with remediation funding available. • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • Please be reminded that when the ground is frozen, children should not be on the climbers due to the surfacing being compromised. 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. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I greeted Ms. Hutelmyer and explained the reason for my visit. When I arrived, the children spread out all over the classroom with individual "Book Buddies" from 5th grade. These 5th graders come in an read a special book with their book buddy. After book buddies left, the children met for group time where they had a "Mat Man" session. This is a lesson of shapes, body parts, senses and even patterns using shapes to create "Mat Man". This Mat Man was Cat in the Hat themed. A gross motor/music and movement activity occurred while lunch was put on the tables by the other teacher. Lunch today consisted of pizza sticks with marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, blueberries and milk. This facility is owned and operated by the Watauga County Schools and housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. There were no new teachers at this facility. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. I shared the facility compliance history with you today which was ninety-three (93%) percent as of 3/5/25. The last annual compliance visit was 9/17/24. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 1/23/23 Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space, meets reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/26/25. An shelter in place drill was conducted on 2/3/25. The last fire inspection was 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 11/7/24 with seven (7) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. There were no violations documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. An Epi pen and Benadryl did not have a parent authorization form from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Technical assistance: *A child had an Epi pen and Benadryl with an Asthma Action Plan filled out, but did not have written authorization from the parent. 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 March 19, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828.434.0236, or email lee.marshall@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. 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 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. Consultation is provided as follows: • Lead and asbestos testing deadlines have been extended till May 2025 with remediation funding available. • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • Please be reminded that when the ground is frozen, children should not be on the climbers due to the surfacing being compromised. 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. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I greeted Ms. Hutelmyer and explained the reason for my visit. When I arrived, the children spread out all over the classroom with individual "Book Buddies" from 5th grade. These 5th graders come in an read a special book with their book buddy. After book buddies left, the children met for group time where they had a "Mat Man" session. This is a lesson of shapes, body parts, senses and even patterns using shapes to create "Mat Man". This Mat Man was Cat in the Hat themed. A gross motor/music and movement activity occurred while lunch was put on the tables by the other teacher. Lunch today consisted of pizza sticks with marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, blueberries and milk. This facility is owned and operated by the Watauga County Schools and housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. There were no new teachers at this facility. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. I shared the facility compliance history with you today which was ninety-three (93%) percent as of 3/5/25. The last annual compliance visit was 9/17/24. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 1/23/23 Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space, meets reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/26/25. An shelter in place drill was conducted on 2/3/25. The last fire inspection was 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 11/7/24 with seven (7) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. There were no violations documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. An Epi pen and Benadryl did not have a parent authorization form from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Technical assistance: *A child had an Epi pen and Benadryl with an Asthma Action Plan filled out, but did not have written authorization from the parent. 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 March 19, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828.434.0236, or email lee.marshall@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. 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 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. Consultation is provided as follows: • Lead and asbestos testing deadlines have been extended till May 2025 with remediation funding available. • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • Please be reminded that when the ground is frozen, children should not be on the climbers due to the surfacing being compromised. 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. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I greeted Ms. Hutelmyer and explained the reason for my visit. When I arrived, the children spread out all over the classroom with individual "Book Buddies" from 5th grade. These 5th graders come in an read a special book with their book buddy. After book buddies left, the children met for group time where they had a "Mat Man" session. This is a lesson of shapes, body parts, senses and even patterns using shapes to create "Mat Man". This Mat Man was Cat in the Hat themed. A gross motor/music and movement activity occurred while lunch was put on the tables by the other teacher. Lunch today consisted of pizza sticks with marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, blueberries and milk. This facility is owned and operated by the Watauga County Schools and housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. There were no new teachers at this facility. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. I shared the facility compliance history with you today which was ninety-three (93%) percent as of 3/5/25. The last annual compliance visit was 9/17/24. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 1/23/23 Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space, meets reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/26/25. An shelter in place drill was conducted on 2/3/25. The last fire inspection was 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 11/7/24 with seven (7) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. There were no violations documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. An Epi pen and Benadryl did not have a parent authorization form from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Technical assistance: *A child had an Epi pen and Benadryl with an Asthma Action Plan filled out, but did not have written authorization from the parent. 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 March 19, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828.434.0236, or email lee.marshall@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. 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 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. Consultation is provided as follows: • Lead and asbestos testing deadlines have been extended till May 2025 with remediation funding available. • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • Please be reminded that when the ground is frozen, children should not be on the climbers due to the surfacing being compromised. 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. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I greeted Ms. Hutelmyer and explained the reason for my visit. When I arrived, the children spread out all over the classroom with individual "Book Buddies" from 5th grade. These 5th graders come in an read a special book with their book buddy. After book buddies left, the children met for group time where they had a "Mat Man" session. This is a lesson of shapes, body parts, senses and even patterns using shapes to create "Mat Man". This Mat Man was Cat in the Hat themed. A gross motor/music and movement activity occurred while lunch was put on the tables by the other teacher. Lunch today consisted of pizza sticks with marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, blueberries and milk. This facility is owned and operated by the Watauga County Schools and housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. There were no new teachers at this facility. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. I shared the facility compliance history with you today which was ninety-three (93%) percent as of 3/5/25. The last annual compliance visit was 9/17/24. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 1/23/23 Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space, meets reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/26/25. An shelter in place drill was conducted on 2/3/25. The last fire inspection was 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 11/7/24 with seven (7) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. There were no violations documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. An Epi pen and Benadryl did not have a parent authorization form from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Technical assistance: *A child had an Epi pen and Benadryl with an Asthma Action Plan filled out, but did not have written authorization from the parent. 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 March 19, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828.434.0236, or email lee.marshall@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. 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 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. Consultation is provided as follows: • Lead and asbestos testing deadlines have been extended till May 2025 with remediation funding available. • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • Please be reminded that when the ground is frozen, children should not be on the climbers due to the surfacing being compromised. 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. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/5/2025 Number Present: 16 Completed Date: 3/5/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this routine unannounced visit was to conduct limited compliance monitoring and offer consultation to the program. The visit summary was completed, reviewed with you, and signed by me, Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher. The computerized generated report of today’s visit was completed and left on site. It is also available electronically upon request. Upon my arrival I greeted Ms. Hutelmyer and explained the reason for my visit. When I arrived, the children spread out all over the classroom with individual "Book Buddies" from 5th grade. These 5th graders come in an read a special book with their book buddy. After book buddies left, the children met for group time where they had a "Mat Man" session. This is a lesson of shapes, body parts, senses and even patterns using shapes to create "Mat Man". This Mat Man was Cat in the Hat themed. A gross motor/music and movement activity occurred while lunch was put on the tables by the other teacher. Lunch today consisted of pizza sticks with marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, blueberries and milk. This facility is owned and operated by the Watauga County Schools and housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. There were no new teachers at this facility. There are eighteen (18) children enrolled and sixteen (16) present today. No children’s files were monitored during today’s routine unannounced visit. I shared the facility compliance history with you today which was ninety-three (93%) percent as of 3/5/25. The last annual compliance visit was 9/17/24. The following items were monitored today: Supervision Staff Child Ratios CPR First Aid Special Training Criminal Record Checks Completed Emergency Medical Care Plan Administration of Medication Storage of Hazardous Substances Storage of Medication Adequate/Approved Space General Safety Discipline Program Records License Posted- Five-star license, effective 1/23/23 Permit Restrictions- Daytime care only, meets enhanced space, meets reduced ratios. The last fire drill was practiced on 2/26/25. An shelter in place drill was conducted on 2/3/25. The last fire inspection was 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 11/7/24 with seven (7) demerits for a superior rating. The Emergency Medical Care Plan is posted and current. The incident log is in use and maintained. There were no violations documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. An Epi pen and Benadryl did not have a parent authorization form from the parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) Technical assistance: *A child had an Epi pen and Benadryl with an Asthma Action Plan filled out, but did not have written authorization from the parent. 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 March 19, 2025. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or on the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828.434.0236, or email lee.marshall@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. 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 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. Consultation is provided as follows: • Lead and asbestos testing deadlines have been extended till May 2025 with remediation funding available. • New Environment Rating Scales have arrived! Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE assessments. Go to https://ncrlap.org/ for resources and training opportunities. • Please be reminded that when the ground is frozen, children should not be on the climbers due to the surfacing being compromised. 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. 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2024 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 9/17/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site. During today’s visit, Ms. Hutelmyer was available to assist me during my visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) 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 ninety-three percentage (93%) as of 9/16/24. This facility is owned by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. This is an NC-Pre-K classroom. Permit type – Five-star license issued January 23, 2023. Special Services/Restrictions – NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/10/24. The last fire drill was practiced on 8/30/24. The last lock down drill was practiced on 3/28/24 (last fiscal year). One is planned for next week. The last playground inspection was documented on 8/22/24. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/9/24 with nine (9) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Preparedness Plan was updated on 8/22/24. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon my arrival, I checked in at the front office. When I arrived to the pre-k classroom, I introduced myself and the purpose of today’s visit. Children were busy playing in centers. Two children were playing at the sand table, children were playing in the dramatic play area, the block area building towers, a teacher was reading informally in the book area to a small group of children, another teacher was working with children at the table with various manipulative activities. The teacher stated that they went outside earlier for a brief time, but it was raining hard today. Children cleaned up and met on the large rug for a gross motor activity and a story while one teacher prepared the tables for lunch. Children were called a few at a time to wash their hands for lunch. Today lunch consisted of chili/cheese nachos, refried beans, fruit fluff and milk. One child chose to have a grilled cheese, two children chose peanut butter and jelly sandwich and two children bring a packed lunch from home. Once children were finished, they cleaned up their area and went to their cot for rest time. Teachers assisted children in resting by rubbing their backs and sitting with them. Children that did not sleep, were then given quiet activities to do on their cots. 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 program does provide transportation. You stated that you do offer transportation for Pre-k children ages 4 and 5 years old. The program uses public school buses. 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 for the previous school year 23/24 (dated 10/20/24). Two children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1867 The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. 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 October 1, 2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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 several staff are coming up on their expiration dates for their criminal background checks. Ms. Hutelmyer stated that most everyone has already stated the recertification process. • We discussed the fact that the teacher assistant now needs 15 hours of training per year. • We discussed the new ECERS-3 that will be effective February 1, 2025. • NCRLAP has a lot of training and information on the new third edition. 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 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2024 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 9/17/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site. During today’s visit, Ms. Hutelmyer was available to assist me during my visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) 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 ninety-three percentage (93%) as of 9/16/24. This facility is owned by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. This is an NC-Pre-K classroom. Permit type – Five-star license issued January 23, 2023. Special Services/Restrictions – NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/10/24. The last fire drill was practiced on 8/30/24. The last lock down drill was practiced on 3/28/24 (last fiscal year). One is planned for next week. The last playground inspection was documented on 8/22/24. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/9/24 with nine (9) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Preparedness Plan was updated on 8/22/24. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon my arrival, I checked in at the front office. When I arrived to the pre-k classroom, I introduced myself and the purpose of today’s visit. Children were busy playing in centers. Two children were playing at the sand table, children were playing in the dramatic play area, the block area building towers, a teacher was reading informally in the book area to a small group of children, another teacher was working with children at the table with various manipulative activities. The teacher stated that they went outside earlier for a brief time, but it was raining hard today. Children cleaned up and met on the large rug for a gross motor activity and a story while one teacher prepared the tables for lunch. Children were called a few at a time to wash their hands for lunch. Today lunch consisted of chili/cheese nachos, refried beans, fruit fluff and milk. One child chose to have a grilled cheese, two children chose peanut butter and jelly sandwich and two children bring a packed lunch from home. Once children were finished, they cleaned up their area and went to their cot for rest time. Teachers assisted children in resting by rubbing their backs and sitting with them. Children that did not sleep, were then given quiet activities to do on their cots. 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 program does provide transportation. You stated that you do offer transportation for Pre-k children ages 4 and 5 years old. The program uses public school buses. 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 for the previous school year 23/24 (dated 10/20/24). Two children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1867 The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. 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 October 1, 2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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 several staff are coming up on their expiration dates for their criminal background checks. Ms. Hutelmyer stated that most everyone has already stated the recertification process. • We discussed the fact that the teacher assistant now needs 15 hours of training per year. • We discussed the new ECERS-3 that will be effective February 1, 2025. • NCRLAP has a lot of training and information on the new third edition. 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 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2024 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 9/17/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site. During today’s visit, Ms. Hutelmyer was available to assist me during my visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) 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 ninety-three percentage (93%) as of 9/16/24. This facility is owned by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. This is an NC-Pre-K classroom. Permit type – Five-star license issued January 23, 2023. Special Services/Restrictions – NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/10/24. The last fire drill was practiced on 8/30/24. The last lock down drill was practiced on 3/28/24 (last fiscal year). One is planned for next week. The last playground inspection was documented on 8/22/24. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/9/24 with nine (9) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Preparedness Plan was updated on 8/22/24. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon my arrival, I checked in at the front office. When I arrived to the pre-k classroom, I introduced myself and the purpose of today’s visit. Children were busy playing in centers. Two children were playing at the sand table, children were playing in the dramatic play area, the block area building towers, a teacher was reading informally in the book area to a small group of children, another teacher was working with children at the table with various manipulative activities. The teacher stated that they went outside earlier for a brief time, but it was raining hard today. Children cleaned up and met on the large rug for a gross motor activity and a story while one teacher prepared the tables for lunch. Children were called a few at a time to wash their hands for lunch. Today lunch consisted of chili/cheese nachos, refried beans, fruit fluff and milk. One child chose to have a grilled cheese, two children chose peanut butter and jelly sandwich and two children bring a packed lunch from home. Once children were finished, they cleaned up their area and went to their cot for rest time. Teachers assisted children in resting by rubbing their backs and sitting with them. Children that did not sleep, were then given quiet activities to do on their cots. 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 program does provide transportation. You stated that you do offer transportation for Pre-k children ages 4 and 5 years old. The program uses public school buses. 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 for the previous school year 23/24 (dated 10/20/24). Two children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1867 The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. 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 October 1, 2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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 several staff are coming up on their expiration dates for their criminal background checks. Ms. Hutelmyer stated that most everyone has already stated the recertification process. • We discussed the fact that the teacher assistant now needs 15 hours of training per year. • We discussed the new ECERS-3 that will be effective February 1, 2025. • NCRLAP has a lot of training and information on the new third edition. 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 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2024 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 9/17/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site. During today’s visit, Ms. Hutelmyer was available to assist me during my visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) 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 ninety-three percentage (93%) as of 9/16/24. This facility is owned by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. This is an NC-Pre-K classroom. Permit type – Five-star license issued January 23, 2023. Special Services/Restrictions – NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/10/24. The last fire drill was practiced on 8/30/24. The last lock down drill was practiced on 3/28/24 (last fiscal year). One is planned for next week. The last playground inspection was documented on 8/22/24. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/9/24 with nine (9) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Preparedness Plan was updated on 8/22/24. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon my arrival, I checked in at the front office. When I arrived to the pre-k classroom, I introduced myself and the purpose of today’s visit. Children were busy playing in centers. Two children were playing at the sand table, children were playing in the dramatic play area, the block area building towers, a teacher was reading informally in the book area to a small group of children, another teacher was working with children at the table with various manipulative activities. The teacher stated that they went outside earlier for a brief time, but it was raining hard today. Children cleaned up and met on the large rug for a gross motor activity and a story while one teacher prepared the tables for lunch. Children were called a few at a time to wash their hands for lunch. Today lunch consisted of chili/cheese nachos, refried beans, fruit fluff and milk. One child chose to have a grilled cheese, two children chose peanut butter and jelly sandwich and two children bring a packed lunch from home. Once children were finished, they cleaned up their area and went to their cot for rest time. Teachers assisted children in resting by rubbing their backs and sitting with them. Children that did not sleep, were then given quiet activities to do on their cots. 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 program does provide transportation. You stated that you do offer transportation for Pre-k children ages 4 and 5 years old. The program uses public school buses. 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 for the previous school year 23/24 (dated 10/20/24). Two children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1867 The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. 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 October 1, 2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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 several staff are coming up on their expiration dates for their criminal background checks. Ms. Hutelmyer stated that most everyone has already stated the recertification process. • We discussed the fact that the teacher assistant now needs 15 hours of training per year. • We discussed the new ECERS-3 that will be effective February 1, 2025. • NCRLAP has a lot of training and information on the new third edition. 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 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2024 Number Present: 15 Completed Date: 9/17/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was left on-site. During today’s visit, Ms. Hutelmyer was available to assist me during my visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including (but not limited to) 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 ninety-three percentage (93%) as of 9/16/24. This facility is owned by Watauga County Schools and is housed in Hardin Park Elementary School. This is an NC-Pre-K classroom. Permit type – Five-star license issued January 23, 2023. Special Services/Restrictions – NCPK approved and approved for transportation. Daytime care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 10/10/24. The last fire drill was practiced on 8/30/24. The last lock down drill was practiced on 3/28/24 (last fiscal year). One is planned for next week. The last playground inspection was documented on 8/22/24. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/26/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/9/24 with nine (9) demerits for a superior classification. The Emergency Preparedness Plan was updated on 8/22/24. The Emergency Medical Care plan was posted and current. The approved curriculum for four-year-old children is Creative Curriculum Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon my arrival, I checked in at the front office. When I arrived to the pre-k classroom, I introduced myself and the purpose of today’s visit. Children were busy playing in centers. Two children were playing at the sand table, children were playing in the dramatic play area, the block area building towers, a teacher was reading informally in the book area to a small group of children, another teacher was working with children at the table with various manipulative activities. The teacher stated that they went outside earlier for a brief time, but it was raining hard today. Children cleaned up and met on the large rug for a gross motor activity and a story while one teacher prepared the tables for lunch. Children were called a few at a time to wash their hands for lunch. Today lunch consisted of chili/cheese nachos, refried beans, fruit fluff and milk. One child chose to have a grilled cheese, two children chose peanut butter and jelly sandwich and two children bring a packed lunch from home. Once children were finished, they cleaned up their area and went to their cot for rest time. Teachers assisted children in resting by rubbing their backs and sitting with them. Children that did not sleep, were then given quiet activities to do on their cots. 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 program does provide transportation. You stated that you do offer transportation for Pre-k children ages 4 and 5 years old. The program uses public school buses. 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 for the previous school year 23/24 (dated 10/20/24). Two children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #1867 The depth of mulch around the silver skunk rocker only measured 2 and 3 inches instead of the required 6 inches. 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 October 1, 2024. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall PO Box 253 Zionville, NC 28698 Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall@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 several staff are coming up on their expiration dates for their criminal background checks. Ms. Hutelmyer stated that most everyone has already stated the recertification process. • We discussed the fact that the teacher assistant now needs 15 hours of training per year. • We discussed the new ECERS-3 that will be effective February 1, 2025. • NCRLAP has a lot of training and information on the new third edition. 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 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 lee.marshall@dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0605 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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 .2703 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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: Hardin Park Elementary Pre-K Facility ID: 95000080 Consultant: GEORGIA MARSHALL Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/10/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/10/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 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 Georgia Lee Marshall, Child Care Consultant and also signed by Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, during the visit. An electronic signed copy of the visit summary was electronically emailed to you. Today, Elizabeth Hutelmyer, lead teacher, was available to answer my questions during the visit. The indoor and outdoor areas were monitored today, including but not limited to, 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 one hundred (100%) percentage as of 10/09/23. This facility is an NC Pre-k program operated by Watauga County Schools and is located in Hardin Park Elementary School. Permit type – Five (5) star license, issued on 1/23/23. Special Services/Restrictions – Day time care only, meeting reduced ratios and enhanced space. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 11/8/23. The last fire drill was practiced on 9/29/23. The last lock down drill was practiced on 9/14/23. The last playground inspection was documented on 9/6/23. The last fire inspection was approved on 8/25/23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 5/12/23 with six (6) 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, Teaching Strategies Gold. Upon arrival, I greeted the teachers and washed my hands. I observed children playing in centers with various activities. Teachers worked with children in small groups as well as walking around assisting and engaging throughout the classroom. The classroom is welcoming and very organized to make play more enticing. The teachers were engaging with children in a loving and nurturing way while modeling manners and respect for others. The classroom had two (2) guest fire fighters come to speak to the classroom and talk about fire safety. The children also go to go out in groups to see the fire truck. Children washed their hands to prepare for lunch. Lunch today consisted of taco soup (with an alternate choice of a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich). There are four (4) children that have an op-out form on file to bring their lunch and snacks. After lunch, children cleaned up, took care of their bodies and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Some children looked at books, some had stuffed animals’ while others got their backs rubbed as teachers made their rotation. 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 program does provide transportation on public school buses. You stated that the school transports sixteen (16) out of eighteen (18) Pre-k (ages four (4) and five (5) year old) children to and/or from school. The program has an Off-Site Verification Form for Transportation dated 9/7/23. 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. Two (2) children files were monitored today. The classroom operates from 7:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday - Friday. The following violations were documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .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. Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Technical assistance was provided as follows: Item #.1041 110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. (b) Effective January 1, 1996, the Department shall ensure that, prior to employment and every three years thereafter, the criminal history of all child care providers is checked and a determination is made of the child care provider's fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-being of children based on the criminal history. The Department shall ensure that all child care providers are checked for county, State, and federal criminal histories. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Item #.1757 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in the family child care home, and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. Note: TG did not have a criminal background check. The background check completed through the school system does not count for this rule. Items #.1048, .1049 & .1897 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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (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. Note: Bus drivers must have verification of Pediatric/child First Aid Training. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Note: Bus drivers must have Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Item #..0824 10A NCAC 09 .0605 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (i) The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Note: The fence along the back of the building is where the fence is less than four (4) feet. 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 October 24, 2023. Email the compliance letter on signed letterhead or in the email identifying your facility name, ID#, name and position to: lee.marshall@ dhhs.nc.gov or you can mail to: Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education Attn: Georgia Lee Marshall P.O. Box 253 Zionville Please call me at 828-434-0236, or email lee.marshall @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: • There is a new version of the Summary of the Law. Please post the newest version of this. • Remember that if a child has an opt out form, they are opting out of all meals and snacks and may not choose which days they want to pack. However, we do realize that if a child doesn’t have anything to eat, we do expect you to meet the needs of the child. • Make sure that you have all training documentation on file for the bus drivers. Such as first aid and CPR and the Health and Safety trainings. 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 lee.marshall @dhhs.nc.gov or 828.434.0236, 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
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