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Home › NC › Burgaw › Excel Learning Centers #13
1001 Rhodes Avenue, Burgaw NC 28425 · License #71000252 · Center · Child Care Center
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10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. Andrea Johnson, Childcare Consultant, assisted with today’s visit. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of today, your facility has an 18-month compliance history, which was 95%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/02/2025 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 12/02/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Theresa Lesesne, and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Lesesne accompanied Ms. Johnson as observations were conducted in classrooms. There are three out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-five children enrolled, and fourteen children, ages 0 – 5, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. In indoor space #1, two toddlers were playing with soft toys on the carpet, and one infant was seated in an infant activity chair. Pampers, wrapped in plastic, stored under the diaper changing table in this space were accessible to children under 3 years of age. Younger preschool children assigned to indoor space #3 were singing finger play songs, building with bristle blocks, and coloring with crayons. Older preschool children assigned to indoor space #7 were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included puzzles, legos, cash registers, and stuffed animals. Lunch was being prepared which consisted of mini corn dogs, carrots, tropical fruit, and milk. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Staff in all classrooms were observed interacting with children in a positive and nurturing manner Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year and new employees have completed Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff must complete these trainings within the first year of being hired and must be renewed every five years. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Children’s records were not monitored today. There were seven staff members employed at this facility. There were two new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. New staff files were reviewed today. Required information and trainings for existing staff were also monitored. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Two violations were corrected during the visit. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In the infant and toddler classroom, pampers wrapped in torn plastic were stored under the diaper changing table accessible to children. .0604(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member did not have an annual health questionnaire updated. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member did not have required Emergency Information updated annually. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member's First Aid certification expired on October 18, 2025, and one staff member who was hired on July 25, 2025, did not complete 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. One staff member's CPR certification expired on October 18, 2025, and one staff member hired on July 24, 2025, did not complete CPR training. .1102(d) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received February 11, 2026, describing how the violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. You may email your letter of compliance to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: Your facility was issued a Five-Star License on February 20, 2022. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is interested in pursuing Pathway #1, Program Assessment, and you plan to apply for a rated license by July 2026 and have requested to have the ERS completed in August 2026. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You are eligible for this pathway, which allows your program to demonstrate quality through best practices using the Environment Rating scale. This includes completing a Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan, meeting Family and Community Engagement Standards, implementing a Curriculum for 4 years olds in 4- and 5-Star programs, and Enhanced Staff/Child Ratios. Family and Community Engagement: Pathway 1, Program Assessment - We reviewed all options included in the following Family and Community Engagement Categories: Educational Opportunity, Engagement & Leadership, and Communication. Items selected must be verifiable. Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI): Pathway 1, Program Assessment - A CQI plan will be completed for the facility and each staff member. The CQI Plan includes the following: Identification of goal(s), Necessary resources, supports and actions needed to accomplish the goal(s). Document the reason for the goal(s), Annual review of efforts toward completion of the goal(s). Staff Education - Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS for all staff members as you hire new staff or as existing staff complete additional coursework. This is of vital importance as the information in WORKS for your staff will determine the number of points that your facility earns in the education component of QRIS. Other Information Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on April 17, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): Ms. Goins stated she has completed the required training, and access has been given, and current staff are noted on the roster except for two. She is actively working on getting those two added. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 2025-2026 Respiratory Season: To help North Carolinians understand how to defend themselves against serious illness from the flu, COVID-19 and RSV, NCDHHS has released a bilingual Respiratory Illness Communications Toolkit for the 2025–2026 respiratory virus season. The toolkit offers ready-to-share fact sheets, social media content, videos, posters and other materials to help communities, health departments, schools and employers share respiratory illness information. The materials explain how these viruses spread, symptoms to watch for and the benefits of getting updated vaccines. They also provide information on where to get vaccinated. NCDHHS encourages North Carolinians to get vaccinated for the strongest protection and follow everyday steps like handwashing and staying home when sick. For questions or concerns, talk to a health care provider. Resources and vaccine-finder information are available at MySpot.nc.gov. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Lesesne and Ms. Goin. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the routine unannounced visit. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. If you have any questions and/or concerns, contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov or (910)824-1143 or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-824-0470. Technical Assistance for Violations Cited: CPR/FA: All staff must obtain. For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. I suggest you set a reminder on your calendar to keep track of expiration dates and/or seek out training from additional approved agencies when staff is not able to attend courses offered locally or at the facility. Staff Records: Items such as staff health questionnaires, emergency information, and evaluations must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Plastic Bags For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. 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.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. Andrea Johnson, Childcare Consultant, assisted with today’s visit. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of today, your facility has an 18-month compliance history, which was 95%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/02/2025 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 12/02/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Theresa Lesesne, and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Lesesne accompanied Ms. Johnson as observations were conducted in classrooms. There are three out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-five children enrolled, and fourteen children, ages 0 – 5, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. In indoor space #1, two toddlers were playing with soft toys on the carpet, and one infant was seated in an infant activity chair. Pampers, wrapped in plastic, stored under the diaper changing table in this space were accessible to children under 3 years of age. Younger preschool children assigned to indoor space #3 were singing finger play songs, building with bristle blocks, and coloring with crayons. Older preschool children assigned to indoor space #7 were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included puzzles, legos, cash registers, and stuffed animals. Lunch was being prepared which consisted of mini corn dogs, carrots, tropical fruit, and milk. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Staff/child ratios were in compliance. All children were adequately supervised. Staff in all classrooms were observed interacting with children in a positive and nurturing manner Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year and new employees have completed Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff must complete these trainings within the first year of being hired and must be renewed every five years. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Children’s records were not monitored today. There were seven staff members employed at this facility. There were two new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. New staff files were reviewed today. Required information and trainings for existing staff were also monitored. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Two violations were corrected during the visit. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In the infant and toddler classroom, pampers wrapped in torn plastic were stored under the diaper changing table accessible to children. .0604(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff member did not have an annual health questionnaire updated. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member did not have required Emergency Information updated annually. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member's First Aid certification expired on October 18, 2025, and one staff member who was hired on July 25, 2025, did not complete 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. One staff member's CPR certification expired on October 18, 2025, and one staff member hired on July 24, 2025, did not complete CPR training. .1102(d) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received February 11, 2026, describing how the violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. You may email your letter of compliance to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: Your facility was issued a Five-Star License on February 20, 2022. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is interested in pursuing Pathway #1, Program Assessment, and you plan to apply for a rated license by July 2026 and have requested to have the ERS completed in August 2026. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You are eligible for this pathway, which allows your program to demonstrate quality through best practices using the Environment Rating scale. This includes completing a Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plan, meeting Family and Community Engagement Standards, implementing a Curriculum for 4 years olds in 4- and 5-Star programs, and Enhanced Staff/Child Ratios. Family and Community Engagement: Pathway 1, Program Assessment - We reviewed all options included in the following Family and Community Engagement Categories: Educational Opportunity, Engagement & Leadership, and Communication. Items selected must be verifiable. Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI): Pathway 1, Program Assessment - A CQI plan will be completed for the facility and each staff member. The CQI Plan includes the following: Identification of goal(s), Necessary resources, supports and actions needed to accomplish the goal(s). Document the reason for the goal(s), Annual review of efforts toward completion of the goal(s). Staff Education - Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS for all staff members as you hire new staff or as existing staff complete additional coursework. This is of vital importance as the information in WORKS for your staff will determine the number of points that your facility earns in the education component of QRIS. Other Information Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on April 17, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): Ms. Goins stated she has completed the required training, and access has been given, and current staff are noted on the roster except for two. She is actively working on getting those two added. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 2025-2026 Respiratory Season: To help North Carolinians understand how to defend themselves against serious illness from the flu, COVID-19 and RSV, NCDHHS has released a bilingual Respiratory Illness Communications Toolkit for the 2025–2026 respiratory virus season. The toolkit offers ready-to-share fact sheets, social media content, videos, posters and other materials to help communities, health departments, schools and employers share respiratory illness information. The materials explain how these viruses spread, symptoms to watch for and the benefits of getting updated vaccines. They also provide information on where to get vaccinated. NCDHHS encourages North Carolinians to get vaccinated for the strongest protection and follow everyday steps like handwashing and staying home when sick. For questions or concerns, talk to a health care provider. Resources and vaccine-finder information are available at MySpot.nc.gov. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Lesesne and Ms. Goin. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the routine unannounced visit. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. If you have any questions and/or concerns, contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov or (910)824-1143 or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-824-0470. Technical Assistance for Violations Cited: CPR/FA: All staff must obtain. For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. I suggest you set a reminder on your calendar to keep track of expiration dates and/or seek out training from additional approved agencies when staff is not able to attend courses offered locally or at the facility. Staff Records: Items such as staff health questionnaires, emergency information, and evaluations must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Plastic Bags For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. 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 09.1724 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/5/2025 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 8/5/2025 Age: From 1 To 9 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 10:00 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 with applicable childcare requirements pertinent to an annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of August 1, 2025, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 95%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/11/2024 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/03/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior New Administrator, Theresa Lesene, and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Lesene started on July 24, 2025; the Preservice Administrator Form was received today. Ms. Goins accompanied me as observations were conducted in operating classrooms. There are four out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-eight children enrolled, and twenty -four children, ages 1 – 9, were present today. Some classrooms are closed due to AC problems; a repairman has been called and is scheduled to come out today. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, arrived at the facility as I was conducting this visit. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. There were no infants present today; two infants are enrolled at this facility. Toddlers and preschool children were finishing up lunch and preparing for nap/rest time. Lunch consisted of macaroni & cheese, green peas, diced peaches, and milk. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and mats or cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. School age children were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art activities, dramatic play, block play, and playing games. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staff and Training Worksheets- There are ten staff members employed at this facility. All new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health and safety trainings were monitored, and requirements were met. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The light is not working in space #8, vinyl couch is peeling in space #3, and the fence area by space #7 needs repairing or replaced. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep chart for an 11 month old was not available for review. .0606(g) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before August 19, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited: The lights were not working in space #8, vinyl couch in space #3 and fence area by space #7 needs to be repaired or replaced. Ms. Goins stated she has put in a work order for the lights today. All equipment and furnishing must be in good repair. Safe sleep charts -Rule 10A NCAC 09.1724(a) (6- 8) requires all providers to visually check sleeping infants. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. REMINDER - Rust on playground equipment is a common problem, especially on metal structures exposed to the elements. It can weaken the equipment and pose safety hazards. Addressing rust early is crucial for maintaining playground safety and extending the equipment's lifespan; treat rust areas/problems by painting. Other Information CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on April 17, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Criminal Background Check Information – Ms. Goins has completed the required training, and access has been given, and she is currently working to ensure all staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Summer 2025: Is it Medicine? We think you’ll enjoy the Summer 2025 edition of the NC Child Care Health and Safety E-Newsletter. It includes in-depth information about health and safety concerns in early care and education settings, as well as information for child care programs to share with families. Check it out! Remember! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you, emailed to you, copies printed and signed. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the annual compliance visit. If you have any questions and/or concerns, you may contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov or (910)824-1143. 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. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/5/2025 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 8/5/2025 Age: From 1 To 9 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 10:00 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 with applicable childcare requirements pertinent to an annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of August 1, 2025, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 95%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/11/2024 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/03/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior New Administrator, Theresa Lesene, and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Lesene started on July 24, 2025; the Preservice Administrator Form was received today. Ms. Goins accompanied me as observations were conducted in operating classrooms. There are four out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-eight children enrolled, and twenty -four children, ages 1 – 9, were present today. Some classrooms are closed due to AC problems; a repairman has been called and is scheduled to come out today. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, arrived at the facility as I was conducting this visit. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. There were no infants present today; two infants are enrolled at this facility. Toddlers and preschool children were finishing up lunch and preparing for nap/rest time. Lunch consisted of macaroni & cheese, green peas, diced peaches, and milk. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and mats or cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. School age children were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art activities, dramatic play, block play, and playing games. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staff and Training Worksheets- There are ten staff members employed at this facility. All new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health and safety trainings were monitored, and requirements were met. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The light is not working in space #8, vinyl couch is peeling in space #3, and the fence area by space #7 needs repairing or replaced. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep chart for an 11 month old was not available for review. .0606(g) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before August 19, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited: The lights were not working in space #8, vinyl couch in space #3 and fence area by space #7 needs to be repaired or replaced. Ms. Goins stated she has put in a work order for the lights today. All equipment and furnishing must be in good repair. Safe sleep charts -Rule 10A NCAC 09.1724(a) (6- 8) requires all providers to visually check sleeping infants. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. REMINDER - Rust on playground equipment is a common problem, especially on metal structures exposed to the elements. It can weaken the equipment and pose safety hazards. Addressing rust early is crucial for maintaining playground safety and extending the equipment's lifespan; treat rust areas/problems by painting. Other Information CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on April 17, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Criminal Background Check Information – Ms. Goins has completed the required training, and access has been given, and she is currently working to ensure all staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Summer 2025: Is it Medicine? We think you’ll enjoy the Summer 2025 edition of the NC Child Care Health and Safety E-Newsletter. It includes in-depth information about health and safety concerns in early care and education settings, as well as information for child care programs to share with families. Check it out! Remember! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you, emailed to you, copies printed and signed. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the annual compliance visit. If you have any questions and/or concerns, you may contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov or (910)824-1143. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/5/2025 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 8/5/2025 Age: From 1 To 9 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 10:00 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 with applicable childcare requirements pertinent to an annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of August 1, 2025, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 95%. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/11/2024 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/03/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior New Administrator, Theresa Lesene, and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Lesene started on July 24, 2025; the Preservice Administrator Form was received today. Ms. Goins accompanied me as observations were conducted in operating classrooms. There are four out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-eight children enrolled, and twenty -four children, ages 1 – 9, were present today. Some classrooms are closed due to AC problems; a repairman has been called and is scheduled to come out today. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, arrived at the facility as I was conducting this visit. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. There were no infants present today; two infants are enrolled at this facility. Toddlers and preschool children were finishing up lunch and preparing for nap/rest time. Lunch consisted of macaroni & cheese, green peas, diced peaches, and milk. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and mats or cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. School age children were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art activities, dramatic play, block play, and playing games. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Staff and Training Worksheets- There are ten staff members employed at this facility. All new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health and safety trainings were monitored, and requirements were met. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The light is not working in space #8, vinyl couch is peeling in space #3, and the fence area by space #7 needs repairing or replaced. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Safe sleep chart for an 11 month old was not available for review. .0606(g) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before August 19, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violations cited: The lights were not working in space #8, vinyl couch in space #3 and fence area by space #7 needs to be repaired or replaced. Ms. Goins stated she has put in a work order for the lights today. All equipment and furnishing must be in good repair. Safe sleep charts -Rule 10A NCAC 09.1724(a) (6- 8) requires all providers to visually check sleeping infants. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. REMINDER - Rust on playground equipment is a common problem, especially on metal structures exposed to the elements. It can weaken the equipment and pose safety hazards. Addressing rust early is crucial for maintaining playground safety and extending the equipment's lifespan; treat rust areas/problems by painting. Other Information CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on April 17, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint-Exempt N/A • Asbestos-Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Criminal Background Check Information – Ms. Goins has completed the required training, and access has been given, and she is currently working to ensure all staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Summer 2025: Is it Medicine? We think you’ll enjoy the Summer 2025 edition of the NC Child Care Health and Safety E-Newsletter. It includes in-depth information about health and safety concerns in early care and education settings, as well as information for child care programs to share with families. Check it out! Remember! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you, emailed to you, copies printed and signed. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the annual compliance visit. If you have any questions and/or concerns, you may contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov or (910)824-1143. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2025 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 11:25 AM Time Out: 02:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s routine unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of March 3, 2025, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 98%. 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/11/2024 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/03/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker – Administrator and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator were present and available for consultation. Ms. Walker accompanied me as observations were conducted in all classrooms. There are five out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-nine children enrolled, and twenty -one children, ages 0 – 9, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. There were no infants present today; one infant is enrolled at this facility. Toddlers and preschool children were finishing up lunch and preparing for nap/rest time. Lunch consisted of beef tortillas, black beans, pineapples, and milk. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. Pender County Schools are observing spring break this week; therefore, school age children were present today. They were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art activities, dramatic play, block play, and playing a game. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. There have been three new staff members since the last annual compliance visit was conducted. Files for new staff were monitored today. There was one violation observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 603 All floors and floor coverings were not in good repair. Floors throughout the facility observed with scuffing and wear. Environmental Health Specialist)EHS) also noted floors not being in good repair on the sanitation inspection completed on March 3, 2025. 15A NCAC 18A .2824(a)&(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received March 18, 2025 describing how the violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violation cited: Floors in hallway and all classrooms are not in good repair. They are very worn; some have unremovable marks that appear to be dirt, grime, etc. that can’t be cleaned no matter how hard you try. Therefore, the floors are no longer easily cleaned. Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) conducted a visit on March 3, 2025, and demerits were given regarding your floors also. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Consultation Materials – As discussed again today, ensure adequate materials and supplies are available and accessible to the children in all classrooms. The rules states – 1. When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area were not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. 2. The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. During previous visit, it was stated that administration was going through materials/supplies in each classroom to determine what materials/supplies were in good condition and what materials/supplies needed to be thrown away and replaced. It does not appear that the items that were thrown away have been replaced. Facility must have sufficient supplies and adequate materials for the children enrolled at your facility, no exceptions. If not, moving forward, it will be cited as a violation. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members who have been employed for at least one year have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff must complete this training within one year of hire. All staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Health and Safety training must be renewed every five years. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - You stated the registration and enrollment for all three testing programs have been completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing and inspections without any out-of-pocket costs. Due to the volume of testing and inspections, completion of the online enrollment process in the program is considered temporary compliance with the testing and inspection requirement and will allow facilities to participate in the funding mechanisms. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminder: There are several staff members whose qualification letters will expire in 2025. A valid qualification letter must always be on file for all staff members. Proactively, staff members can start the criminal background process to renew their qualification letters six months prior to the expiration date of their current qualification letter. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and a printed copy left with Ms. Walker for your records. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2025 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 11:25 AM Time Out: 02:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s routine unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of March 3, 2025, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 98%. 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/11/2024 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/03/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker – Administrator and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator were present and available for consultation. Ms. Walker accompanied me as observations were conducted in all classrooms. There are five out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-nine children enrolled, and twenty -one children, ages 0 – 9, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. There were no infants present today; one infant is enrolled at this facility. Toddlers and preschool children were finishing up lunch and preparing for nap/rest time. Lunch consisted of beef tortillas, black beans, pineapples, and milk. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. Pender County Schools are observing spring break this week; therefore, school age children were present today. They were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art activities, dramatic play, block play, and playing a game. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. There have been three new staff members since the last annual compliance visit was conducted. Files for new staff were monitored today. There was one violation observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 603 All floors and floor coverings were not in good repair. Floors throughout the facility observed with scuffing and wear. Environmental Health Specialist)EHS) also noted floors not being in good repair on the sanitation inspection completed on March 3, 2025. 15A NCAC 18A .2824(a)&(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received March 18, 2025 describing how the violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violation cited: Floors in hallway and all classrooms are not in good repair. They are very worn; some have unremovable marks that appear to be dirt, grime, etc. that can’t be cleaned no matter how hard you try. Therefore, the floors are no longer easily cleaned. Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) conducted a visit on March 3, 2025, and demerits were given regarding your floors also. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Consultation Materials – As discussed again today, ensure adequate materials and supplies are available and accessible to the children in all classrooms. The rules states – 1. When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area were not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. 2. The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. During previous visit, it was stated that administration was going through materials/supplies in each classroom to determine what materials/supplies were in good condition and what materials/supplies needed to be thrown away and replaced. It does not appear that the items that were thrown away have been replaced. Facility must have sufficient supplies and adequate materials for the children enrolled at your facility, no exceptions. If not, moving forward, it will be cited as a violation. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members who have been employed for at least one year have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff must complete this training within one year of hire. All staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Health and Safety training must be renewed every five years. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - You stated the registration and enrollment for all three testing programs have been completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing and inspections without any out-of-pocket costs. Due to the volume of testing and inspections, completion of the online enrollment process in the program is considered temporary compliance with the testing and inspection requirement and will allow facilities to participate in the funding mechanisms. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminder: There are several staff members whose qualification letters will expire in 2025. A valid qualification letter must always be on file for all staff members. Proactively, staff members can start the criminal background process to renew their qualification letters six months prior to the expiration date of their current qualification letter. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and a printed copy left with Ms. Walker for your records. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2025 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 3/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 11:25 AM Time Out: 02:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s routine unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. Limited child care requirements pertinent to this visit type were monitored. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 6, 2024. As of March 3, 2025, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 98%. 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 center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/11/2024 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/03/2025 – 4 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker – Administrator and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator were present and available for consultation. Ms. Walker accompanied me as observations were conducted in all classrooms. There are five out of eight classrooms operating with thirty-nine children enrolled, and twenty -one children, ages 0 – 9, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. There were no infants present today; one infant is enrolled at this facility. Toddlers and preschool children were finishing up lunch and preparing for nap/rest time. Lunch consisted of beef tortillas, black beans, pineapples, and milk. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. Pender County Schools are observing spring break this week; therefore, school age children were present today. They were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art activities, dramatic play, block play, and playing a game. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. During today's visit child care requirements monitored for compliance included supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, storage of hazardous substances and medications, approved space, posting of the license, and other applicable requirements. There have been three new staff members since the last annual compliance visit was conducted. Files for new staff were monitored today. There was one violation observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 603 All floors and floor coverings were not in good repair. Floors throughout the facility observed with scuffing and wear. Environmental Health Specialist)EHS) also noted floors not being in good repair on the sanitation inspection completed on March 3, 2025. 15A NCAC 18A .2824(a)&(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received March 18, 2025 describing how the violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violation cited: Floors in hallway and all classrooms are not in good repair. They are very worn; some have unremovable marks that appear to be dirt, grime, etc. that can’t be cleaned no matter how hard you try. Therefore, the floors are no longer easily cleaned. Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) conducted a visit on March 3, 2025, and demerits were given regarding your floors also. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Consultation Materials – As discussed again today, ensure adequate materials and supplies are available and accessible to the children in all classrooms. The rules states – 1. When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area were not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. 2. The materials and equipment indoors and outdoors were not sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences to promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language and communication development, and cognitive development. During previous visit, it was stated that administration was going through materials/supplies in each classroom to determine what materials/supplies were in good condition and what materials/supplies needed to be thrown away and replaced. It does not appear that the items that were thrown away have been replaced. Facility must have sufficient supplies and adequate materials for the children enrolled at your facility, no exceptions. If not, moving forward, it will be cited as a violation. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members who have been employed for at least one year have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff must complete this training within one year of hire. All staff must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Health and Safety training must be renewed every five years. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information - There are no longer any cohorts. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encourage you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is always maintained. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - You stated the registration and enrollment for all three testing programs have been completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed all three testing programs. Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter and it may be requested to verify compliance. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing and inspections without any out-of-pocket costs. Due to the volume of testing and inspections, completion of the online enrollment process in the program is considered temporary compliance with the testing and inspection requirement and will allow facilities to participate in the funding mechanisms. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation during your next visit. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within two business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminder: There are several staff members whose qualification letters will expire in 2025. A valid qualification letter must always be on file for all staff members. Proactively, staff members can start the criminal background process to renew their qualification letters six months prior to the expiration date of their current qualification letter. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and a printed copy left with Ms. Walker for your records. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1024-273L Visit Date: 10/25/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 10/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit is to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. There were forty-two children enrolled and nineteen children, ages 0 – 4, present. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infant feeding charts were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. All children, toddlers, preschool, and school age children were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included building with colored blocks, puppets, art activities, blocks, dramatic play, playing games, and painting. All children completed bathroom and handwashing routines to prepare for lunch. Lunch consisted of roasted chicken sandwich, potato tots, pineapple, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. The allegations of this report were discussed with Administrator - Macie Walker, Assistant Administrator – Gwen Goins, District Manager – Jennifer DeJoseph, and some other staff. You were each given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegations and to share any pertinent information. This facility does not have cameras. Allegation #1 There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised regarding biting incidents in the classroom for two- and three-year-old children. Staff were interviewed, and each stated all children are adequately supervised daily by staff. Staff explained there had been minimum biting incidents but no major concerns regarding biting. The administrators of the facility provided copies of an “injuries at center log/report.” I reviewed the incidents recorded for the classroom for two-year-old children. According to the log, there were four (4) biting incidents in August 2024, six(6) biting incidents in September 2024, and none as of yet in October 2024. Biting is an appropriate age behavior and a phase. However, programs must actively seek help for the child and do everything possible to avoid additional biting from happening. If staff members are aware of a child who bites, they need to provide close supervision of that child. A staff member needs to shadow the biter to ensure safety of the other children. This can be challenging but imperative for the biter. Caregivers/teachers should intervene immediately when a child’s behavior is aggressive and endangers the safety of others. It is important that the child be clearly told verbally, “hitting hurts” or “biting hurts.” The caregiver/teacher should use age–appropriate interventions. The caregiver/teacher should remain calm and make eye contact with the child, telling him/her the behavior is unacceptable. Children who might not have the social skills or language to communicate appropriately may use physical aggression to express themselves and the reason for and antecedents of the behavior must be considered when developing a plan for addressing the behavior. Biting is a typical behavior often seen in infants, toddlers, and 2-year-olds. As children mature, gain self-control, and develop problem-solving skills, they usually outgrow this behavior. While it is not uncommon, biting can be an upsetting and potentially harmful behavior. It’s best to discourage it from the very first episode. What should we do when biting occurs? Remain calm. Avoid a dramatic or negative response. Give immediate attention and comfort to the victim first. Clean the wound with soap and water. Create distance from the child who bit from the child that was bitten. Talk to the biting child. Point out the effect of biting. What can we do to prevent biting? Chart the behavior of children who bite to get an idea of times and situations when biting occurs. Change the environment, routines, activities, etc. if necessary. Help children to communicate and verbalize feelings. Provide close supervision. Redirect children to more acceptable behaviors. Provide positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior Facility may contact Smart Start of Pender County, Shelly Martin (Birth- three Initiative) at Region 4 CCR&R, and the Regional Child Care Health Consultant, LaKeasha Glaspie, who are available to provide additional guidance and suggestions to help with a child who is biting. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, and all children were supervised. Based on the reporter’s information, staff members’ information, and my investigation, this allegation is unsubstantiated. All children must be adequately supervised at all times. Adequate supervision means that staff position themselves in an indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. Supervision is basic to the safety and the prevention of injury and maintaining quality child care. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. Children must never be left unattended even if just for a few minutes. It is imperative that caregivers supervise children at all times, not just for the safety of children, but to ensure children get the attention they need for optimal growth and development. Children like to test their skills and abilities. Serious injuries can occur in indoor and outdoor play areas if constant supervision is not maintained. The importance of supervision is not only to protect children from physical injury, but from harm that can occur from teasing/bullying/inappropriate topics discussed or inappropriate behavior. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. Caregivers who are actively involved, aware, and appreciative of young children’s behaviors are in the best position to keep children safe. Ms. Walker reported that staff supervise children and there have not been any recent concerns regarding supervision. She stated that she and Ms. Goins are constantly walking the hallway and in and out of the classrooms throughout the day to assist and support caregivers. Allegation #2 There is a concern that documentation is not being provided when children are injured in care. Administrator, Ms. Walker, stated parents are notified when children are injured in care either with a “boo boo” report and/or incident report, when applicable. Incident reports are only required when a child is hurt/injured in care and receives medical attention. The incident report must be completed and mailed to me within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. Facility's biting policy was available and reviewed today. According to the policy, parents are notified verbally and in writing when their child is the biter or bitten and if the bite breaks the skin, the biter is sent home(this information is not included in the facility’s biting policy). It appears the facility is implementing and following their policy. Based on the reporter’s information, staff members’ information, and my investigation, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Any time a child receives a bite, bump, bruise or bleeding, parents should receive a courtesy call from the program and a copy of an incident report must be provided to them. Often, parents are more likely to be understanding about their children’s injuries if they feel the program was transparent and good communication took place. Allegation #3 There are concerns regarding age groupings. As I visited classrooms today, staff/child ratios were in compliance in each classroom. Staff were aware of the staff/child ratio for their classroom, and I observed accurate staff/child ratios forms posted in each classroom. Staff stated they did not have any concerns regarding staff/child ratios and were knowledgeable and implementing the facility’s staff/child ratio policy, when needed. Administrative staff stated that some classrooms are closed, and children have been combined in other classrooms due to some staff being on vacation and/or low enrollment/attendance in certain classrooms. However, administrative staff confirmed that staff have been informed not to accept children into the classroom if it will not allow the classroom to maintain staff/child ratio; they are to direct parents back to the director, who will handle the situation. Administrative Staff states facility has a staff/child ratio policy that has been reviewed with all staff and new staff at time of hire. Each staff member confirms receipt of the policy and understanding of the policy and their responsibility by their signature. Based on my investigation, my observations, and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Staff/child ratios must be maintained at all times, no exceptions. Each group of children must have the appropriate number of staff members present based on the total number and ages of children in care. Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. There was one violation documented today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 1949 The center did not report a suspected case of child abuse or neglect as required by the mandatory duty prescribed in G.S. 7B-301. Staff member reported to Administrators of facility who reported to Regional Manager regarding their concerns of a suspected child abuse or neglect situation regarding a child in their care; no one made a report to the proper authorities regarding their concerns. G.S. 110-91 In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received November 6, 2024, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Comments regarding violation cited During my investigation of this complaint visit, there were concerns and incidents shared regarding a child having some unexplained marks/bruises, not wanting to be touched in private area to the point of not wanting her “pull-up” changed, stating to staff members that her private area hurt and pointing to it, and basic needs of the child not being met. Staff member stated she did a wellness check on children each morning and wrote down any scratches, injuries, marks, etc. that children reported to child care with. Staff member states she immediately contacted Administrator, Ms. Walker, regarding her suspicions of child abuse and neglect and documented some of her concerns with written statements. Ms. Walker and Ms. Goins stated they informed their Regional Manager, Ms. DeJoseph, regarding their concerns and suspicions of child abuse and neglect but a report to the proper authorities was not made by anyone. All staff members are required to complete Recognizing and Reporting Child Maltreatment within 90 days of hire. Therefore, all staff members are knowledgeable of process to report suspicions of child maltreatment and should be able to make a report independently. Child Care staff are mandatory reporters. North Carolina has a mandatory reporting law, NCGS § 7B-301 that states "any person or institution who has cause to suspect that any juvenile is abused, neglected, or dependent, as defined by NCGS § 7B-101, or has died as the result of maltreatment, shall report the case of that juvenile to the director of the department of social services in the county where the juvenile resides or is found." The intent of this legislation is to encourage reporting to the proper authority situations in which children may be at risk. It does not require that the reporter possess any information beyond a cause to suspect abuse, neglect and/or dependency. The reporter is not required to have witnessed the abuse, neglect, and/or dependency, or to have firsthand knowledge. A person who makes a report of suspected child abuse, neglect, and/or dependency is immune from civil or criminal liability if the report was made in good faith. Immunity is also guaranteed to anyone who cooperates with the county child welfare agency in its CPS Assessment, testifies in any court action resulting from the report, or participates in authorized procedures or programs for screening and responding to reports of abuse, neglect, and/or dependency. 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed and a copy was left with you. You may contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov or (910)824-1143 with questions/concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1024-273L Visit Date: 10/25/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 10/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit is to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. There were forty-two children enrolled and nineteen children, ages 0 – 4, present. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infant feeding charts were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. All children, toddlers, preschool, and school age children were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included building with colored blocks, puppets, art activities, blocks, dramatic play, playing games, and painting. All children completed bathroom and handwashing routines to prepare for lunch. Lunch consisted of roasted chicken sandwich, potato tots, pineapple, and milk. After lunch, children observed nap/rest time. The allegations of this report were discussed with Administrator - Macie Walker, Assistant Administrator – Gwen Goins, District Manager – Jennifer DeJoseph, and some other staff. You were each given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegations and to share any pertinent information. This facility does not have cameras. Allegation #1 There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised regarding biting incidents in the classroom for two- and three-year-old children. Staff were interviewed, and each stated all children are adequately supervised daily by staff. Staff explained there had been minimum biting incidents but no major concerns regarding biting. The administrators of the facility provided copies of an “injuries at center log/report.” I reviewed the incidents recorded for the classroom for two-year-old children. According to the log, there were four (4) biting incidents in August 2024, six(6) biting incidents in September 2024, and none as of yet in October 2024. Biting is an appropriate age behavior and a phase. However, programs must actively seek help for the child and do everything possible to avoid additional biting from happening. If staff members are aware of a child who bites, they need to provide close supervision of that child. A staff member needs to shadow the biter to ensure safety of the other children. This can be challenging but imperative for the biter. Caregivers/teachers should intervene immediately when a child’s behavior is aggressive and endangers the safety of others. It is important that the child be clearly told verbally, “hitting hurts” or “biting hurts.” The caregiver/teacher should use age–appropriate interventions. The caregiver/teacher should remain calm and make eye contact with the child, telling him/her the behavior is unacceptable. Children who might not have the social skills or language to communicate appropriately may use physical aggression to express themselves and the reason for and antecedents of the behavior must be considered when developing a plan for addressing the behavior. Biting is a typical behavior often seen in infants, toddlers, and 2-year-olds. As children mature, gain self-control, and develop problem-solving skills, they usually outgrow this behavior. While it is not uncommon, biting can be an upsetting and potentially harmful behavior. It’s best to discourage it from the very first episode. What should we do when biting occurs? Remain calm. Avoid a dramatic or negative response. Give immediate attention and comfort to the victim first. Clean the wound with soap and water. Create distance from the child who bit from the child that was bitten. Talk to the biting child. Point out the effect of biting. What can we do to prevent biting? Chart the behavior of children who bite to get an idea of times and situations when biting occurs. Change the environment, routines, activities, etc. if necessary. Help children to communicate and verbalize feelings. Provide close supervision. Redirect children to more acceptable behaviors. Provide positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior Facility may contact Smart Start of Pender County, Shelly Martin (Birth- three Initiative) at Region 4 CCR&R, and the Regional Child Care Health Consultant, LaKeasha Glaspie, who are available to provide additional guidance and suggestions to help with a child who is biting. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, and all children were supervised. Based on the reporter’s information, staff members’ information, and my investigation, this allegation is unsubstantiated. All children must be adequately supervised at all times. Adequate supervision means that staff position themselves in an indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. Supervision is basic to the safety and the prevention of injury and maintaining quality child care. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. Children must never be left unattended even if just for a few minutes. It is imperative that caregivers supervise children at all times, not just for the safety of children, but to ensure children get the attention they need for optimal growth and development. Children like to test their skills and abilities. Serious injuries can occur in indoor and outdoor play areas if constant supervision is not maintained. The importance of supervision is not only to protect children from physical injury, but from harm that can occur from teasing/bullying/inappropriate topics discussed or inappropriate behavior. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. Caregivers who are actively involved, aware, and appreciative of young children’s behaviors are in the best position to keep children safe. Ms. Walker reported that staff supervise children and there have not been any recent concerns regarding supervision. She stated that she and Ms. Goins are constantly walking the hallway and in and out of the classrooms throughout the day to assist and support caregivers. Allegation #2 There is a concern that documentation is not being provided when children are injured in care. Administrator, Ms. Walker, stated parents are notified when children are injured in care either with a “boo boo” report and/or incident report, when applicable. Incident reports are only required when a child is hurt/injured in care and receives medical attention. The incident report must be completed and mailed to me within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. Facility's biting policy was available and reviewed today. According to the policy, parents are notified verbally and in writing when their child is the biter or bitten and if the bite breaks the skin, the biter is sent home(this information is not included in the facility’s biting policy). It appears the facility is implementing and following their policy. Based on the reporter’s information, staff members’ information, and my investigation, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Any time a child receives a bite, bump, bruise or bleeding, parents should receive a courtesy call from the program and a copy of an incident report must be provided to them. Often, parents are more likely to be understanding about their children’s injuries if they feel the program was transparent and good communication took place. Allegation #3 There are concerns regarding age groupings. As I visited classrooms today, staff/child ratios were in compliance in each classroom. Staff were aware of the staff/child ratio for their classroom, and I observed accurate staff/child ratios forms posted in each classroom. Staff stated they did not have any concerns regarding staff/child ratios and were knowledgeable and implementing the facility’s staff/child ratio policy, when needed. Administrative staff stated that some classrooms are closed, and children have been combined in other classrooms due to some staff being on vacation and/or low enrollment/attendance in certain classrooms. However, administrative staff confirmed that staff have been informed not to accept children into the classroom if it will not allow the classroom to maintain staff/child ratio; they are to direct parents back to the director, who will handle the situation. Administrative Staff states facility has a staff/child ratio policy that has been reviewed with all staff and new staff at time of hire. Each staff member confirms receipt of the policy and understanding of the policy and their responsibility by their signature. Based on my investigation, my observations, and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Staff/child ratios must be maintained at all times, no exceptions. Each group of children must have the appropriate number of staff members present based on the total number and ages of children in care. Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. There was one violation documented today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 1949 The center did not report a suspected case of child abuse or neglect as required by the mandatory duty prescribed in G.S. 7B-301. Staff member reported to Administrators of facility who reported to Regional Manager regarding their concerns of a suspected child abuse or neglect situation regarding a child in their care; no one made a report to the proper authorities regarding their concerns. G.S. 110-91 In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received November 6, 2024, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Comments regarding violation cited During my investigation of this complaint visit, there were concerns and incidents shared regarding a child having some unexplained marks/bruises, not wanting to be touched in private area to the point of not wanting her “pull-up” changed, stating to staff members that her private area hurt and pointing to it, and basic needs of the child not being met. Staff member stated she did a wellness check on children each morning and wrote down any scratches, injuries, marks, etc. that children reported to child care with. Staff member states she immediately contacted Administrator, Ms. Walker, regarding her suspicions of child abuse and neglect and documented some of her concerns with written statements. Ms. Walker and Ms. Goins stated they informed their Regional Manager, Ms. DeJoseph, regarding their concerns and suspicions of child abuse and neglect but a report to the proper authorities was not made by anyone. All staff members are required to complete Recognizing and Reporting Child Maltreatment within 90 days of hire. Therefore, all staff members are knowledgeable of process to report suspicions of child maltreatment and should be able to make a report independently. Child Care staff are mandatory reporters. North Carolina has a mandatory reporting law, NCGS § 7B-301 that states "any person or institution who has cause to suspect that any juvenile is abused, neglected, or dependent, as defined by NCGS § 7B-101, or has died as the result of maltreatment, shall report the case of that juvenile to the director of the department of social services in the county where the juvenile resides or is found." The intent of this legislation is to encourage reporting to the proper authority situations in which children may be at risk. It does not require that the reporter possess any information beyond a cause to suspect abuse, neglect and/or dependency. The reporter is not required to have witnessed the abuse, neglect, and/or dependency, or to have firsthand knowledge. A person who makes a report of suspected child abuse, neglect, and/or dependency is immune from civil or criminal liability if the report was made in good faith. Immunity is also guaranteed to anyone who cooperates with the county child welfare agency in its CPS Assessment, testifies in any court action resulting from the report, or participates in authorized procedures or programs for screening and responding to reports of abuse, neglect, and/or dependency. 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed and a copy was left with you. You may contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov or (910)824-1143 with questions/concerns. 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 .0509 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2024 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 9, 2023. As of August 2, 2024, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 100%. The center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/27/2023 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 01/11/ 2024 – 23 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker – Administrator and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator were present and available for consultation. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, was also present today. Ms. Walker, Ms. Goins, and Ms. DeJoseph accompanied me as observations were conducted in all classrooms. There are five out of eight classrooms operating with fifty-two children enrolled, and thirty-one children, ages 0 – 9, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infants were observed on the floor interacting with caregivers and playing with toys. Infant feeding charts were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art/painting, sand and water play, and dramatic play. School age children were observed playing games, pretending to cook in dramatic play, drawing, and playing in blocks. I also observed lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken sandwich, tater tots, pineapple, and milk. After lunch, toddlers and preschool children observed nap/rest time. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and mats with blankets were appropriately spaced. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. All staff members employed more than one year have completed the Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and new staff are in the process of completing these required trainings. Health and Safety trainings must be completed within the first year of employment and every five years thereafter. There were two violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 615 Mats were not properly stored. The mats used by children to nap/rest were stored in a manner that sleeping surfaces were touching. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The fabric on the rocking chair in space #1 is dirty with several visible stains. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 20, 2024, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violations cited: Mat storage - The sleeping surface of one child’s mat should not come in contact with the sleeping surface of another child’s mat during storage. Mats must be stored in a way that prevents the sleeping surface on one mat from touching the sleeping surface or floor contact surface of another mat. While storing, a barrier could be used. All furnishings were not in good repair. The glider in the classroom for infants was visibly dirty with several stains. The glider needs to be cleaned or replaced. Germs not only linger in the air, but they also cling to equipment as well. It is vital for the children to be cared for in a clean environment. Ensuring all materials and equipment are in good repair promotes a clean, healthy, and safe environment for the children in care. 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Reminders: Classrooms must be equipped with appropriate materials and equipment as required by Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .0509 and .0510. When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Additionally, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509 states the learning environment consists of the indoor and outdoor area which encourages child initiated and teacher supported activities as follows: (1) each center shall have developmentally appropriate equipment and materials accessible on a daily basis; (2) the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors shall be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences that promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in February 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 3. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County and Region 4 CCR & R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Other Information Clean Classrooms for Kids Program – All child care programs must have their water tested for lead and your building tested for lead and asbestos hazards. May 1, 2024, was the initial deadline to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. Facilities that have not yet enrolled should complete the process by November 1, 2024. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years(centers) and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa The information above is from https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/, which is also where you enroll in the program. Remember, centers must have their water tested every three years. Family child care homes, as of now, are only required to do it once, and the water testing must be completed by January 1, 2025. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Criminal Background Check Information - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2024 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 9, 2023. As of August 2, 2024, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 100%. The center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/27/2023 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 01/11/ 2024 – 23 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker – Administrator and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator were present and available for consultation. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, was also present today. Ms. Walker, Ms. Goins, and Ms. DeJoseph accompanied me as observations were conducted in all classrooms. There are five out of eight classrooms operating with fifty-two children enrolled, and thirty-one children, ages 0 – 9, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infants were observed on the floor interacting with caregivers and playing with toys. Infant feeding charts were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art/painting, sand and water play, and dramatic play. School age children were observed playing games, pretending to cook in dramatic play, drawing, and playing in blocks. I also observed lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken sandwich, tater tots, pineapple, and milk. After lunch, toddlers and preschool children observed nap/rest time. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and mats with blankets were appropriately spaced. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. All staff members employed more than one year have completed the Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and new staff are in the process of completing these required trainings. Health and Safety trainings must be completed within the first year of employment and every five years thereafter. There were two violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 615 Mats were not properly stored. The mats used by children to nap/rest were stored in a manner that sleeping surfaces were touching. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The fabric on the rocking chair in space #1 is dirty with several visible stains. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 20, 2024, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violations cited: Mat storage - The sleeping surface of one child’s mat should not come in contact with the sleeping surface of another child’s mat during storage. Mats must be stored in a way that prevents the sleeping surface on one mat from touching the sleeping surface or floor contact surface of another mat. While storing, a barrier could be used. All furnishings were not in good repair. The glider in the classroom for infants was visibly dirty with several stains. The glider needs to be cleaned or replaced. Germs not only linger in the air, but they also cling to equipment as well. It is vital for the children to be cared for in a clean environment. Ensuring all materials and equipment are in good repair promotes a clean, healthy, and safe environment for the children in care. 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Reminders: Classrooms must be equipped with appropriate materials and equipment as required by Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .0509 and .0510. When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Additionally, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509 states the learning environment consists of the indoor and outdoor area which encourages child initiated and teacher supported activities as follows: (1) each center shall have developmentally appropriate equipment and materials accessible on a daily basis; (2) the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors shall be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences that promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in February 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 3. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County and Region 4 CCR & R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Other Information Clean Classrooms for Kids Program – All child care programs must have their water tested for lead and your building tested for lead and asbestos hazards. May 1, 2024, was the initial deadline to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. Facilities that have not yet enrolled should complete the process by November 1, 2024. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years(centers) and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa The information above is from https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/, which is also where you enroll in the program. Remember, centers must have their water tested every three years. Family child care homes, as of now, are only required to do it once, and the water testing must be completed by January 1, 2025. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Criminal Background Check Information - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2024 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 9, 2023. As of August 2, 2024, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 100%. The center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/27/2023 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 01/11/ 2024 – 23 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker – Administrator and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator were present and available for consultation. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, was also present today. Ms. Walker, Ms. Goins, and Ms. DeJoseph accompanied me as observations were conducted in all classrooms. There are five out of eight classrooms operating with fifty-two children enrolled, and thirty-one children, ages 0 – 9, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infants were observed on the floor interacting with caregivers and playing with toys. Infant feeding charts were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art/painting, sand and water play, and dramatic play. School age children were observed playing games, pretending to cook in dramatic play, drawing, and playing in blocks. I also observed lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken sandwich, tater tots, pineapple, and milk. After lunch, toddlers and preschool children observed nap/rest time. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and mats with blankets were appropriately spaced. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. All staff members employed more than one year have completed the Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and new staff are in the process of completing these required trainings. Health and Safety trainings must be completed within the first year of employment and every five years thereafter. There were two violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 615 Mats were not properly stored. The mats used by children to nap/rest were stored in a manner that sleeping surfaces were touching. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The fabric on the rocking chair in space #1 is dirty with several visible stains. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 20, 2024, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violations cited: Mat storage - The sleeping surface of one child’s mat should not come in contact with the sleeping surface of another child’s mat during storage. Mats must be stored in a way that prevents the sleeping surface on one mat from touching the sleeping surface or floor contact surface of another mat. While storing, a barrier could be used. All furnishings were not in good repair. The glider in the classroom for infants was visibly dirty with several stains. The glider needs to be cleaned or replaced. Germs not only linger in the air, but they also cling to equipment as well. It is vital for the children to be cared for in a clean environment. Ensuring all materials and equipment are in good repair promotes a clean, healthy, and safe environment for the children in care. 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Reminders: Classrooms must be equipped with appropriate materials and equipment as required by Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .0509 and .0510. When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Additionally, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509 states the learning environment consists of the indoor and outdoor area which encourages child initiated and teacher supported activities as follows: (1) each center shall have developmentally appropriate equipment and materials accessible on a daily basis; (2) the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors shall be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences that promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in February 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 3. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County and Region 4 CCR & R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Other Information Clean Classrooms for Kids Program – All child care programs must have their water tested for lead and your building tested for lead and asbestos hazards. May 1, 2024, was the initial deadline to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. Facilities that have not yet enrolled should complete the process by November 1, 2024. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years(centers) and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa The information above is from https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/, which is also where you enroll in the program. Remember, centers must have their water tested every three years. Family child care homes, as of now, are only required to do it once, and the water testing must be completed by January 1, 2025. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Criminal Background Check Information - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/6/2024 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios, and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 9, 2023. As of August 2, 2024, your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 100%. The center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/27/2023 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 01/11/ 2024 – 23 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker – Administrator and Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator were present and available for consultation. Jennifer DeJoseph, District Manager, was also present today. Ms. Walker, Ms. Goins, and Ms. DeJoseph accompanied me as observations were conducted in all classrooms. There are five out of eight classrooms operating with fifty-two children enrolled, and thirty-one children, ages 0 – 9, were present today. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activity plans posted. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infants were observed on the floor interacting with caregivers and playing with toys. Infant feeding charts were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in a variety of free choice activities. Free choice activities included art/painting, sand and water play, and dramatic play. School age children were observed playing games, pretending to cook in dramatic play, drawing, and playing in blocks. I also observed lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken sandwich, tater tots, pineapple, and milk. After lunch, toddlers and preschool children observed nap/rest time. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and mats with blankets were appropriately spaced. Staff/child ratios were in compliance in all classrooms. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. All staff members employed more than one year have completed the Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and new staff are in the process of completing these required trainings. Health and Safety trainings must be completed within the first year of employment and every five years thereafter. There were two violations observed today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 615 Mats were not properly stored. The mats used by children to nap/rest were stored in a manner that sleeping surfaces were touching. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The fabric on the rocking chair in space #1 is dirty with several visible stains. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 20, 2024, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violations cited: Mat storage - The sleeping surface of one child’s mat should not come in contact with the sleeping surface of another child’s mat during storage. Mats must be stored in a way that prevents the sleeping surface on one mat from touching the sleeping surface or floor contact surface of another mat. While storing, a barrier could be used. All furnishings were not in good repair. The glider in the classroom for infants was visibly dirty with several stains. The glider needs to be cleaned or replaced. Germs not only linger in the air, but they also cling to equipment as well. It is vital for the children to be cared for in a clean environment. Ensuring all materials and equipment are in good repair promotes a clean, healthy, and safe environment for the children in care. 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Reminders: Classrooms must be equipped with appropriate materials and equipment as required by Child Care Rules 10A NCAC 09 .0509 and .0510. When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Additionally, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0509 states the learning environment consists of the indoor and outdoor area which encourages child initiated and teacher supported activities as follows: (1) each center shall have developmentally appropriate equipment and materials accessible on a daily basis; (2) the materials and equipment indoors and outdoors shall be sufficient to provide a variety of play experiences that promote the children's emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in February 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 3. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County and Region 4 CCR & R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you may not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your additional caregivers on new assessment tools if you are still interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. The new tools are the “3” versions, and I will share more information about training opportunities as they become available. Other Information Clean Classrooms for Kids Program – All child care programs must have their water tested for lead and your building tested for lead and asbestos hazards. May 1, 2024, was the initial deadline to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. Facilities that have not yet enrolled should complete the process by November 1, 2024. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years(centers) and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-leadbased-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa The information above is from https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/, which is also where you enroll in the program. Remember, centers must have their water tested every three years. Family child care homes, as of now, are only required to do it once, and the water testing must be completed by January 1, 2025. DPI Pre-K programs do not need to enroll separately as public schools will be tested as a whole. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! Criminal Background Check Information - DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. To gain access to the Provider Portal complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training on DCDEE's Moodle. The training consists of watching a short video then taking a test about the video. A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the test. Email the certificate along with your full name, position, and Facility ID to DCDEE_ABCMS_Provider@dhhs.nc.gov to get access to the portal. Access will then be granted within 2 business days. If you have general questions, please continue to use DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2023 Number Present: 58 Completed Date: 8/9/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 16, 2022. Your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 97%. The center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. The corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/22/2022 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 01/25/ 2023 – 11 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker - Administrator, Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, and Jennifer DeJoseph - District Manager, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Walker and Ms. DeJoseph accompanied me as I observed all areas used by the children. There are eighty children enrolled, and fifty eight children, ages 0-10, were present today. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infant feeding chart were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. All children, toddlers, preschool, and school age children were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included building with colored blocks, puppets, art activities, blocks, dramatic play, playing games, and painting. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activities. Ensure activity plans, curriculum and activities follow the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Staff must implement and complete activities with the children that promote independence, self-exploration, literacy activities, as well as emotional, social, cognitive and physical development. Some children were also observed eating lunch. Lunch consisted of ham & cheese sandwich, baked beans, peaches, and milk. After lunch, children completed routines and had nap/rest time as soft music played. There were two violations documented today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. In the outdoor play area, the grass was high and needed to be mowed. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1327 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. I observed ten children's files and there was information missing from six of those files. G.S. 110-91(9) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 23, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations All children’s record must be accurate at all time. There are items missing related to parents signed acknowledgement of the following: Discipline, Operational policies, Summary of the law, and Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive. Technical assistance was provided today regarding the requirements for children’s records. I encourage you to review all children's files. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. Share the requirements with upper management as they create the forms. The lawn in the outdoor playground area needs to be mowed. Ms. DeJoseph stated today that she killed a snake prior to my arrival. The outdoor premises must be kept clean. drained and free of litter and hazardous materials, grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Other Information: On March 13, 2023, the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit https://www.childcareaware.org/fee-assistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Health and Safety Training- These training topics outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1703(b) must be completed within the first year of employment for new staff, with the exception of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – it must be completed within 90 days of hire. After initial completion of Health and Safety Trainings, they must be completed every five years. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. During today visit, all existing staff and some new staff have completed these trainings and trainings are documented on the required form. Other new staff are in the process of completed these trainings within the required timeframe. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment is due to be completed in February 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in the 3rd Cohort system. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of the preparation year of your assigned cohort and will provide guidance to assist you as you begin the process. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 3.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2023 Number Present: 58 Completed Date: 8/9/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 16, 2022. Your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 97%. The center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. The corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/22/2022 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 01/25/ 2023 – 11 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker - Administrator, Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, and Jennifer DeJoseph - District Manager, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Walker and Ms. DeJoseph accompanied me as I observed all areas used by the children. There are eighty children enrolled, and fifty eight children, ages 0-10, were present today. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infant feeding chart were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. All children, toddlers, preschool, and school age children were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included building with colored blocks, puppets, art activities, blocks, dramatic play, playing games, and painting. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activities. Ensure activity plans, curriculum and activities follow the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Staff must implement and complete activities with the children that promote independence, self-exploration, literacy activities, as well as emotional, social, cognitive and physical development. Some children were also observed eating lunch. Lunch consisted of ham & cheese sandwich, baked beans, peaches, and milk. After lunch, children completed routines and had nap/rest time as soft music played. There were two violations documented today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. In the outdoor play area, the grass was high and needed to be mowed. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1327 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. I observed ten children's files and there was information missing from six of those files. G.S. 110-91(9) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 23, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations All children’s record must be accurate at all time. There are items missing related to parents signed acknowledgement of the following: Discipline, Operational policies, Summary of the law, and Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive. Technical assistance was provided today regarding the requirements for children’s records. I encourage you to review all children's files. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. Share the requirements with upper management as they create the forms. The lawn in the outdoor playground area needs to be mowed. Ms. DeJoseph stated today that she killed a snake prior to my arrival. The outdoor premises must be kept clean. drained and free of litter and hazardous materials, grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Other Information: On March 13, 2023, the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit https://www.childcareaware.org/fee-assistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Health and Safety Training- These training topics outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1703(b) must be completed within the first year of employment for new staff, with the exception of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – it must be completed within 90 days of hire. After initial completion of Health and Safety Trainings, they must be completed every five years. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. During today visit, all existing staff and some new staff have completed these trainings and trainings are documented on the required form. Other new staff are in the process of completed these trainings within the required timeframe. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment is due to be completed in February 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in the 3rd Cohort system. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of the preparation year of your assigned cohort and will provide guidance to assist you as you begin the process. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 3.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/9/2023 Number Present: 58 Completed Date: 8/9/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This facility operates with a 5 Star-Rated License effective February 20, 2022, earning 7 points in Education Standards, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. The restrictions include first shift care, meets enhanced ratios and space. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 16, 2022. Your facility has an 18-month compliance history was 97%. The center is owned by ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC. The corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 09/22/2022 – Approved for day time care only - Satisfactory Sanitation – 01/25/ 2023 – 11 Demerits – Superior Macie Walker - Administrator, Gwen Goins - Assistant Administrator, and Jennifer DeJoseph - District Manager, were present and available for consultation. Ms. Walker and Ms. DeJoseph accompanied me as I observed all areas used by the children. There are eighty children enrolled, and fifty eight children, ages 0-10, were present today. Infants received care based on individual needs. Infant feeding chart were posted above each crib. Safe sleep charts are being maintained. All children, toddlers, preschool, and school age children were observed participating in free choice activities. Free choice activities included building with colored blocks, puppets, art activities, blocks, dramatic play, playing games, and painting. In each classroom, I observed daily schedules and current activities. Ensure activity plans, curriculum and activities follow the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Staff must implement and complete activities with the children that promote independence, self-exploration, literacy activities, as well as emotional, social, cognitive and physical development. Some children were also observed eating lunch. Lunch consisted of ham & cheese sandwich, baked beans, peaches, and milk. After lunch, children completed routines and had nap/rest time as soft music played. There were two violations documented today. Violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. In the outdoor play area, the grass was high and needed to be mowed. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1327 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. I observed ten children's files and there was information missing from six of those files. G.S. 110-91(9) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 23, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations All children’s record must be accurate at all time. There are items missing related to parents signed acknowledgement of the following: Discipline, Operational policies, Summary of the law, and Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive. Technical assistance was provided today regarding the requirements for children’s records. I encourage you to review all children's files. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. Share the requirements with upper management as they create the forms. The lawn in the outdoor playground area needs to be mowed. Ms. DeJoseph stated today that she killed a snake prior to my arrival. The outdoor premises must be kept clean. drained and free of litter and hazardous materials, grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. Other Information: On March 13, 2023, the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit https://www.childcareaware.org/fee-assistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Health and Safety Training- These training topics outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1703(b) must be completed within the first year of employment for new staff, with the exception of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – it must be completed within 90 days of hire. After initial completion of Health and Safety Trainings, they must be completed every five years. Use the Health and Safety Training Record which is found on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents and Forms to track the completion of these trainings. During today visit, all existing staff and some new staff have completed these trainings and trainings are documented on the required form. Other new staff are in the process of completed these trainings within the required timeframe. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rated License Reassessment Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment is due to be completed in February 2025. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in the 3rd Cohort system. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. I will reach out to you prior to the beginning of the preparation year of your assigned cohort and will provide guidance to assist you as you begin the process. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 3.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component. Documentation was completed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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 .0508 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0723-071L Visit Date: 7/24/2023 Number Present: 54 Completed Date: 7/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. New Administrator, Macie Walker and Field Director, Aubrie McPhaul were present and available for consultation. Assistant Administrator, Gwen Goins, was not present today. Ms. Walker accompanied me as I visited each classroom. Staff/child ratios for all spaces were monitored and found to be in compliance. There are approximately seventy four children enrolled and fifty four children, ages 0 – 10, were present. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in free choice activities. School age children were observed playing a relay game with the guidance of their caregiver. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Children also ate lunch during the visit. Lunch consisted of beef soft tacos, red beans, apple slices, and milk. The allegations of the complaint were discussed with Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul. Both Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul were aware of an incident, but neither were present when the incident occurred. However, there were written statements on file from former employees who witnessed the incident. There was also a text message from terminated employee confirming she tapped the child on the hand using two fingers as a result of an incident involving a trash can lid. This employee was placed on administrative leave immediately following the incident and officially terminated on July 3, 2023 after an investigation by the company. Termination papers for this employee were on file and reviewed today. The following allegations were discussed today. Allegation #1 There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. During today’s visit, staff were observed interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. Caregivers were attentive to the needs of the children in their care. Children should be spoken to in a calm, respectful voice at all times. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child's developmental needs. No form of corporal punishment or rough handling is ever acceptable. No child may be yelled at, threatened, shamed, humiliated, bullied or subjected to sarcastic remarks or profanity. it is important to remember to engage in one-to-one interactions with children, get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions, use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language, provide warm, responsive physical contact, help children understand classroom expectations, redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior, listen to children and encourage them to listen to others, and acknowledge children for their accomplishments and efforts. Positive interactions between children and the caregiver are fundamental to quality child care. Based on my observations and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Safety starts in the classroom. Children should feel and be safe everywhere on campus—in the rest rooms, hallways, on field trips, and on the playground. Feeling safe makes learning possible. Caregivers can help a child feel safe, secure, and supported by acknowledging and responding sensitively to children's cues/signals and supporting children's secure attachment through consistent and warm nurturing relationships. One sign of a positive, respectful, and responsive relationships is that children and caregivers have a variety of meaningful interactions during their time together. Developing positive teacher-child relationships, Allegation #2 There are concerns that inappropriate discipline is being used. During today’s visit, I visited all classrooms, there were no observations of inappropriate discipline. However, an incident did occur on June 28, 2023 that involved a staff member hitting a child. It was confirmed that a staff member did pop a two year old child on the hand and was terminated from her employment as a result. Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul advised facility’s discipline policy is reviewed with all staff upon hire. Each staff member received a copy of the discipline policy and signed a written statement confirming receipt; this information is on file for all staff. Based on my investigation and information received, this allegation is substantiated. The incident did occur, and facility handled it by following their policies and procedures. Moving forward, report any incidents of this nature to me immediately. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS states no child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. The word discipline means to teach and guide. Discipline is not punishment. The discipline standard should reflect an approach that prevents behavior problems by supporting children in learning appropriate social skills and emotional responses. Those that work with young children should care for children without ever resorting to physical punishment or abusive language. When a child needs assistance, needs to express feelings, needs, and wants, the adult should help the child learn strategies for dealing with any situation. Modify the learning/play environment (schedule, routine, activities, transitions, etc.) to support appropriate behavior in a child. Create a predictable schedule. When a routine is predictable, children are more likely to know what to do and what is expected of them. This may decrease anxiety which may decrease acting out. Use encouragement and descriptive praise. When clear encouragement and descriptive praise are used to give attention to appropriate behaviors, those behaviors are likely to be repeated. Encouragement and praise should label the behaviors—not the child. Recognize and accept age-appropriate behaviors. Understand the stages of development in which the children in your care fall. For example, those that cry may not have the verbal ability to express their needs and/or wants or, they may not have the skills yet to do so. There were two violations documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Remember it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with all applicable child care requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available for space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 903 Corporal punishment was used. On June 28, 2023, a child was popped/hit on the hand by an employee. The employee was terminated as a result of her actions. GS 110-91(10); .1803(a) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received July 31, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Due to discipline being cited as a violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted to verify compliance. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations Corporal Punishment is not permitted by staff or parents. Children must not be subjected to corporal punishment by anyone at any time for any reason. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS states (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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 .1803 · Violation
Name of Operation: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0723-071L Visit Date: 7/24/2023 Number Present: 54 Completed Date: 7/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. New Administrator, Macie Walker and Field Director, Aubrie McPhaul were present and available for consultation. Assistant Administrator, Gwen Goins, was not present today. Ms. Walker accompanied me as I visited each classroom. Staff/child ratios for all spaces were monitored and found to be in compliance. There are approximately seventy four children enrolled and fifty four children, ages 0 – 10, were present. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in free choice activities. School age children were observed playing a relay game with the guidance of their caregiver. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Children also ate lunch during the visit. Lunch consisted of beef soft tacos, red beans, apple slices, and milk. The allegations of the complaint were discussed with Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul. Both Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul were aware of an incident, but neither were present when the incident occurred. However, there were written statements on file from former employees who witnessed the incident. There was also a text message from terminated employee confirming she tapped the child on the hand using two fingers as a result of an incident involving a trash can lid. This employee was placed on administrative leave immediately following the incident and officially terminated on July 3, 2023 after an investigation by the company. Termination papers for this employee were on file and reviewed today. The following allegations were discussed today. Allegation #1 There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. During today’s visit, staff were observed interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. Caregivers were attentive to the needs of the children in their care. Children should be spoken to in a calm, respectful voice at all times. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child's developmental needs. No form of corporal punishment or rough handling is ever acceptable. No child may be yelled at, threatened, shamed, humiliated, bullied or subjected to sarcastic remarks or profanity. it is important to remember to engage in one-to-one interactions with children, get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions, use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language, provide warm, responsive physical contact, help children understand classroom expectations, redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior, listen to children and encourage them to listen to others, and acknowledge children for their accomplishments and efforts. Positive interactions between children and the caregiver are fundamental to quality child care. Based on my observations and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Safety starts in the classroom. Children should feel and be safe everywhere on campus—in the rest rooms, hallways, on field trips, and on the playground. Feeling safe makes learning possible. Caregivers can help a child feel safe, secure, and supported by acknowledging and responding sensitively to children's cues/signals and supporting children's secure attachment through consistent and warm nurturing relationships. One sign of a positive, respectful, and responsive relationships is that children and caregivers have a variety of meaningful interactions during their time together. Developing positive teacher-child relationships, Allegation #2 There are concerns that inappropriate discipline is being used. During today’s visit, I visited all classrooms, there were no observations of inappropriate discipline. However, an incident did occur on June 28, 2023 that involved a staff member hitting a child. It was confirmed that a staff member did pop a two year old child on the hand and was terminated from her employment as a result. Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul advised facility’s discipline policy is reviewed with all staff upon hire. Each staff member received a copy of the discipline policy and signed a written statement confirming receipt; this information is on file for all staff. Based on my investigation and information received, this allegation is substantiated. The incident did occur, and facility handled it by following their policies and procedures. Moving forward, report any incidents of this nature to me immediately. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS states no child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. The word discipline means to teach and guide. Discipline is not punishment. The discipline standard should reflect an approach that prevents behavior problems by supporting children in learning appropriate social skills and emotional responses. Those that work with young children should care for children without ever resorting to physical punishment or abusive language. When a child needs assistance, needs to express feelings, needs, and wants, the adult should help the child learn strategies for dealing with any situation. Modify the learning/play environment (schedule, routine, activities, transitions, etc.) to support appropriate behavior in a child. Create a predictable schedule. When a routine is predictable, children are more likely to know what to do and what is expected of them. This may decrease anxiety which may decrease acting out. Use encouragement and descriptive praise. When clear encouragement and descriptive praise are used to give attention to appropriate behaviors, those behaviors are likely to be repeated. Encouragement and praise should label the behaviors—not the child. Recognize and accept age-appropriate behaviors. Understand the stages of development in which the children in your care fall. For example, those that cry may not have the verbal ability to express their needs and/or wants or, they may not have the skills yet to do so. There were two violations documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Remember it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with all applicable child care requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available for space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 903 Corporal punishment was used. On June 28, 2023, a child was popped/hit on the hand by an employee. The employee was terminated as a result of her actions. GS 110-91(10); .1803(a) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received July 31, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Due to discipline being cited as a violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted to verify compliance. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations Corporal Punishment is not permitted by staff or parents. Children must not be subjected to corporal punishment by anyone at any time for any reason. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS states (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0723-071L Visit Date: 7/24/2023 Number Present: 54 Completed Date: 7/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. New Administrator, Macie Walker and Field Director, Aubrie McPhaul were present and available for consultation. Assistant Administrator, Gwen Goins, was not present today. Ms. Walker accompanied me as I visited each classroom. Staff/child ratios for all spaces were monitored and found to be in compliance. There are approximately seventy four children enrolled and fifty four children, ages 0 – 10, were present. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in free choice activities. School age children were observed playing a relay game with the guidance of their caregiver. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Children also ate lunch during the visit. Lunch consisted of beef soft tacos, red beans, apple slices, and milk. The allegations of the complaint were discussed with Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul. Both Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul were aware of an incident, but neither were present when the incident occurred. However, there were written statements on file from former employees who witnessed the incident. There was also a text message from terminated employee confirming she tapped the child on the hand using two fingers as a result of an incident involving a trash can lid. This employee was placed on administrative leave immediately following the incident and officially terminated on July 3, 2023 after an investigation by the company. Termination papers for this employee were on file and reviewed today. The following allegations were discussed today. Allegation #1 There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. During today’s visit, staff were observed interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. Caregivers were attentive to the needs of the children in their care. Children should be spoken to in a calm, respectful voice at all times. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child's developmental needs. No form of corporal punishment or rough handling is ever acceptable. No child may be yelled at, threatened, shamed, humiliated, bullied or subjected to sarcastic remarks or profanity. it is important to remember to engage in one-to-one interactions with children, get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions, use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language, provide warm, responsive physical contact, help children understand classroom expectations, redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior, listen to children and encourage them to listen to others, and acknowledge children for their accomplishments and efforts. Positive interactions between children and the caregiver are fundamental to quality child care. Based on my observations and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Safety starts in the classroom. Children should feel and be safe everywhere on campus—in the rest rooms, hallways, on field trips, and on the playground. Feeling safe makes learning possible. Caregivers can help a child feel safe, secure, and supported by acknowledging and responding sensitively to children's cues/signals and supporting children's secure attachment through consistent and warm nurturing relationships. One sign of a positive, respectful, and responsive relationships is that children and caregivers have a variety of meaningful interactions during their time together. Developing positive teacher-child relationships, Allegation #2 There are concerns that inappropriate discipline is being used. During today’s visit, I visited all classrooms, there were no observations of inappropriate discipline. However, an incident did occur on June 28, 2023 that involved a staff member hitting a child. It was confirmed that a staff member did pop a two year old child on the hand and was terminated from her employment as a result. Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul advised facility’s discipline policy is reviewed with all staff upon hire. Each staff member received a copy of the discipline policy and signed a written statement confirming receipt; this information is on file for all staff. Based on my investigation and information received, this allegation is substantiated. The incident did occur, and facility handled it by following their policies and procedures. Moving forward, report any incidents of this nature to me immediately. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS states no child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. The word discipline means to teach and guide. Discipline is not punishment. The discipline standard should reflect an approach that prevents behavior problems by supporting children in learning appropriate social skills and emotional responses. Those that work with young children should care for children without ever resorting to physical punishment or abusive language. When a child needs assistance, needs to express feelings, needs, and wants, the adult should help the child learn strategies for dealing with any situation. Modify the learning/play environment (schedule, routine, activities, transitions, etc.) to support appropriate behavior in a child. Create a predictable schedule. When a routine is predictable, children are more likely to know what to do and what is expected of them. This may decrease anxiety which may decrease acting out. Use encouragement and descriptive praise. When clear encouragement and descriptive praise are used to give attention to appropriate behaviors, those behaviors are likely to be repeated. Encouragement and praise should label the behaviors—not the child. Recognize and accept age-appropriate behaviors. Understand the stages of development in which the children in your care fall. For example, those that cry may not have the verbal ability to express their needs and/or wants or, they may not have the skills yet to do so. There were two violations documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Remember it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with all applicable child care requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available for space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 903 Corporal punishment was used. On June 28, 2023, a child was popped/hit on the hand by an employee. The employee was terminated as a result of her actions. GS 110-91(10); .1803(a) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received July 31, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Due to discipline being cited as a violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted to verify compliance. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations Corporal Punishment is not permitted by staff or parents. Children must not be subjected to corporal punishment by anyone at any time for any reason. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS states (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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: EXCEL LEARNING CENTERS #13 Facility ID: 71000252 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0723-071L Visit Date: 7/24/2023 Number Present: 54 Completed Date: 7/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. New Administrator, Macie Walker and Field Director, Aubrie McPhaul were present and available for consultation. Assistant Administrator, Gwen Goins, was not present today. Ms. Walker accompanied me as I visited each classroom. Staff/child ratios for all spaces were monitored and found to be in compliance. There are approximately seventy four children enrolled and fifty four children, ages 0 – 10, were present. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Toddlers and preschool children were observed participating in free choice activities. School age children were observed playing a relay game with the guidance of their caregiver. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers interacted with children in a positive and appropriate manner. Children also ate lunch during the visit. Lunch consisted of beef soft tacos, red beans, apple slices, and milk. The allegations of the complaint were discussed with Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul. Both Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul were aware of an incident, but neither were present when the incident occurred. However, there were written statements on file from former employees who witnessed the incident. There was also a text message from terminated employee confirming she tapped the child on the hand using two fingers as a result of an incident involving a trash can lid. This employee was placed on administrative leave immediately following the incident and officially terminated on July 3, 2023 after an investigation by the company. Termination papers for this employee were on file and reviewed today. The following allegations were discussed today. Allegation #1 There are concerns that staff are not interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. During today’s visit, staff were observed interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. Caregivers were attentive to the needs of the children in their care. Children should be spoken to in a calm, respectful voice at all times. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child's developmental needs. No form of corporal punishment or rough handling is ever acceptable. No child may be yelled at, threatened, shamed, humiliated, bullied or subjected to sarcastic remarks or profanity. it is important to remember to engage in one-to-one interactions with children, get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions, use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language, provide warm, responsive physical contact, help children understand classroom expectations, redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior, listen to children and encourage them to listen to others, and acknowledge children for their accomplishments and efforts. Positive interactions between children and the caregiver are fundamental to quality child care. Based on my observations and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Safety starts in the classroom. Children should feel and be safe everywhere on campus—in the rest rooms, hallways, on field trips, and on the playground. Feeling safe makes learning possible. Caregivers can help a child feel safe, secure, and supported by acknowledging and responding sensitively to children's cues/signals and supporting children's secure attachment through consistent and warm nurturing relationships. One sign of a positive, respectful, and responsive relationships is that children and caregivers have a variety of meaningful interactions during their time together. Developing positive teacher-child relationships, Allegation #2 There are concerns that inappropriate discipline is being used. During today’s visit, I visited all classrooms, there were no observations of inappropriate discipline. However, an incident did occur on June 28, 2023 that involved a staff member hitting a child. It was confirmed that a staff member did pop a two year old child on the hand and was terminated from her employment as a result. Ms. Walker and Ms. McPhaul advised facility’s discipline policy is reviewed with all staff upon hire. Each staff member received a copy of the discipline policy and signed a written statement confirming receipt; this information is on file for all staff. Based on my investigation and information received, this allegation is substantiated. The incident did occur, and facility handled it by following their policies and procedures. Moving forward, report any incidents of this nature to me immediately. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS states no child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. The word discipline means to teach and guide. Discipline is not punishment. The discipline standard should reflect an approach that prevents behavior problems by supporting children in learning appropriate social skills and emotional responses. Those that work with young children should care for children without ever resorting to physical punishment or abusive language. When a child needs assistance, needs to express feelings, needs, and wants, the adult should help the child learn strategies for dealing with any situation. Modify the learning/play environment (schedule, routine, activities, transitions, etc.) to support appropriate behavior in a child. Create a predictable schedule. When a routine is predictable, children are more likely to know what to do and what is expected of them. This may decrease anxiety which may decrease acting out. Use encouragement and descriptive praise. When clear encouragement and descriptive praise are used to give attention to appropriate behaviors, those behaviors are likely to be repeated. Encouragement and praise should label the behaviors—not the child. Recognize and accept age-appropriate behaviors. Understand the stages of development in which the children in your care fall. For example, those that cry may not have the verbal ability to express their needs and/or wants or, they may not have the skills yet to do so. There were two violations documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Remember it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with all applicable child care requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. This information was not available for space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 903 Corporal punishment was used. On June 28, 2023, a child was popped/hit on the hand by an employee. The employee was terminated as a result of her actions. GS 110-91(10); .1803(a) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received July 31, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 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. Due to discipline being cited as a violation, a follow-up visit will be conducted to verify compliance. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations Corporal Punishment is not permitted by staff or parents. Children must not be subjected to corporal punishment by anyone at any time for any reason. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS states (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development; (2) health and physical development; (3) approaches to play and learning; (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. 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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