10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/10/2025 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 12/10/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 10:50 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 26, 2025, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 9, 2025. As of December 9, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 96%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Sanitation – 12/09/2025 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Your fire inspection is delinquent. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304 (a) states that each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month in advance of the deadline. During my visit, Ms. Beacham contacted the fire inspector to request a fire inspection; she could not speak with anyone but did leave a message. Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. I conducted a walkthrough and observations in all classrooms, unaccompanied. There are five classrooms operating at the facility. There were eighty-six children enrolled and fifty-seven children present, ages 1-5. All approved spaces used by the children were monitored today. Indoor spaces were arranged into activity areas that include but are not limited to language, blocks, art, math, science, sensory, dramatic play, and manipulatives. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were observed in each classroom. The attendance for each classroom was accurately completed. Daily schedules and activity plans were available for each group of children. When I arrived NC PreK children from space #1 were outside playing in fenced play area. I also observed the children in this space and spaces #4 eating lunch. Lunch consisted of tuna and cheese tortilla wrap, green peas, orange slices, and milk. Caregivers were sitting with the children and talking to the children about their lunch and encouraging them to try new foods. Preschool children in space #5 were cleaning up from lunch, completing bathroom/handwashing routines, and preparing for nap/rest time. Toddlers in space #3 were observing nap/rest time. They were observed napping/resting on covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft must played. NC Pre-K students in space #2 were having group time; they were discussing light and using a flashlight on the wall to make the light smaller or bigger. Caregiver, Ms. Fields was also making shadows on the wall. As the children got up individually to wash their hands for lunch, Ms. Fields and the children practiced the letters and the sounds of each child’s name. Staff/Child ratios were in compliance, and all children were adequately supervised. Good interactions were observed between caregivers and children. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring There are two NC PreK classrooms at this facility. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings have been completed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2025-2026 was signed by contractor on October 17, 2025, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. 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 and staff files were not monitored today. There have been no new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. File for a substitute and required trainings for staff members/volunteers were 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. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was completed at this facility on November 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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 December 23, 2024, 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. 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 with your verification 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 always maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules 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. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. 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. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. Ms. Beacham has completed the training and linked staff to her facility. 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 June 27, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet • Asbestos- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. This facility was issued a Five Star License on June 26, 2025, and is not due a reassessment at this time. Therefore, a QRIS Conversation Form was not completed today. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Reminders: Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! 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). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. 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/ Annual License Fees Due December 3! Invoices for the Annual License Fee were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments were due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Beacham. 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. 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: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/10/2025 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 12/10/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 10:50 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 26, 2025, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 9, 2025. As of December 9, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 96%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Sanitation – 12/09/2025 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Your fire inspection is delinquent. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304 (a) states that each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month in advance of the deadline. During my visit, Ms. Beacham contacted the fire inspector to request a fire inspection; she could not speak with anyone but did leave a message. Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. I conducted a walkthrough and observations in all classrooms, unaccompanied. There are five classrooms operating at the facility. There were eighty-six children enrolled and fifty-seven children present, ages 1-5. All approved spaces used by the children were monitored today. Indoor spaces were arranged into activity areas that include but are not limited to language, blocks, art, math, science, sensory, dramatic play, and manipulatives. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were observed in each classroom. The attendance for each classroom was accurately completed. Daily schedules and activity plans were available for each group of children. When I arrived NC PreK children from space #1 were outside playing in fenced play area. I also observed the children in this space and spaces #4 eating lunch. Lunch consisted of tuna and cheese tortilla wrap, green peas, orange slices, and milk. Caregivers were sitting with the children and talking to the children about their lunch and encouraging them to try new foods. Preschool children in space #5 were cleaning up from lunch, completing bathroom/handwashing routines, and preparing for nap/rest time. Toddlers in space #3 were observing nap/rest time. They were observed napping/resting on covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft must played. NC Pre-K students in space #2 were having group time; they were discussing light and using a flashlight on the wall to make the light smaller or bigger. Caregiver, Ms. Fields was also making shadows on the wall. As the children got up individually to wash their hands for lunch, Ms. Fields and the children practiced the letters and the sounds of each child’s name. Staff/Child ratios were in compliance, and all children were adequately supervised. Good interactions were observed between caregivers and children. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring There are two NC PreK classrooms at this facility. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings have been completed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2025-2026 was signed by contractor on October 17, 2025, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. 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 and staff files were not monitored today. There have been no new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. File for a substitute and required trainings for staff members/volunteers were 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. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was completed at this facility on November 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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 December 23, 2024, 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. 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 with your verification 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 always maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules 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. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. 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. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. Ms. Beacham has completed the training and linked staff to her facility. 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 June 27, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet • Asbestos- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. This facility was issued a Five Star License on June 26, 2025, and is not due a reassessment at this time. Therefore, a QRIS Conversation Form was not completed today. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Reminders: Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! 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). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. 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/ Annual License Fees Due December 3! Invoices for the Annual License Fee were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments were due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Beacham. 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. 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 .3009 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/10/2025 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 12/10/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 10:50 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 26, 2025, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 9, 2025. As of December 9, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 96%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Sanitation – 12/09/2025 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Your fire inspection is delinquent. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304 (a) states that each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month in advance of the deadline. During my visit, Ms. Beacham contacted the fire inspector to request a fire inspection; she could not speak with anyone but did leave a message. Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. I conducted a walkthrough and observations in all classrooms, unaccompanied. There are five classrooms operating at the facility. There were eighty-six children enrolled and fifty-seven children present, ages 1-5. All approved spaces used by the children were monitored today. Indoor spaces were arranged into activity areas that include but are not limited to language, blocks, art, math, science, sensory, dramatic play, and manipulatives. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were observed in each classroom. The attendance for each classroom was accurately completed. Daily schedules and activity plans were available for each group of children. When I arrived NC PreK children from space #1 were outside playing in fenced play area. I also observed the children in this space and spaces #4 eating lunch. Lunch consisted of tuna and cheese tortilla wrap, green peas, orange slices, and milk. Caregivers were sitting with the children and talking to the children about their lunch and encouraging them to try new foods. Preschool children in space #5 were cleaning up from lunch, completing bathroom/handwashing routines, and preparing for nap/rest time. Toddlers in space #3 were observing nap/rest time. They were observed napping/resting on covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft must played. NC Pre-K students in space #2 were having group time; they were discussing light and using a flashlight on the wall to make the light smaller or bigger. Caregiver, Ms. Fields was also making shadows on the wall. As the children got up individually to wash their hands for lunch, Ms. Fields and the children practiced the letters and the sounds of each child’s name. Staff/Child ratios were in compliance, and all children were adequately supervised. Good interactions were observed between caregivers and children. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring There are two NC PreK classrooms at this facility. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings have been completed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2025-2026 was signed by contractor on October 17, 2025, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. 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 and staff files were not monitored today. There have been no new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. File for a substitute and required trainings for staff members/volunteers were 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. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was completed at this facility on November 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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 December 23, 2024, 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. 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 with your verification 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 always maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules 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. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. 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. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. Ms. Beacham has completed the training and linked staff to her facility. 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 June 27, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet • Asbestos- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. This facility was issued a Five Star License on June 26, 2025, and is not due a reassessment at this time. Therefore, a QRIS Conversation Form was not completed today. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Reminders: Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! 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). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. 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/ Annual License Fees Due December 3! Invoices for the Annual License Fee were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments were due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Beacham. 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. 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. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/10/2025 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 12/10/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 10:50 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 26, 2025, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 9, 2025. As of December 9, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 96%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Sanitation – 12/09/2025 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Your fire inspection is delinquent. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304 (a) states that each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month in advance of the deadline. During my visit, Ms. Beacham contacted the fire inspector to request a fire inspection; she could not speak with anyone but did leave a message. Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. I conducted a walkthrough and observations in all classrooms, unaccompanied. There are five classrooms operating at the facility. There were eighty-six children enrolled and fifty-seven children present, ages 1-5. All approved spaces used by the children were monitored today. Indoor spaces were arranged into activity areas that include but are not limited to language, blocks, art, math, science, sensory, dramatic play, and manipulatives. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were observed in each classroom. The attendance for each classroom was accurately completed. Daily schedules and activity plans were available for each group of children. When I arrived NC PreK children from space #1 were outside playing in fenced play area. I also observed the children in this space and spaces #4 eating lunch. Lunch consisted of tuna and cheese tortilla wrap, green peas, orange slices, and milk. Caregivers were sitting with the children and talking to the children about their lunch and encouraging them to try new foods. Preschool children in space #5 were cleaning up from lunch, completing bathroom/handwashing routines, and preparing for nap/rest time. Toddlers in space #3 were observing nap/rest time. They were observed napping/resting on covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft must played. NC Pre-K students in space #2 were having group time; they were discussing light and using a flashlight on the wall to make the light smaller or bigger. Caregiver, Ms. Fields was also making shadows on the wall. As the children got up individually to wash their hands for lunch, Ms. Fields and the children practiced the letters and the sounds of each child’s name. Staff/Child ratios were in compliance, and all children were adequately supervised. Good interactions were observed between caregivers and children. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring There are two NC PreK classrooms at this facility. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings have been completed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2025-2026 was signed by contractor on October 17, 2025, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. 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 and staff files were not monitored today. There have been no new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. File for a substitute and required trainings for staff members/volunteers were 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. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was completed at this facility on November 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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 December 23, 2024, 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. 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 with your verification 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 always maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules 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. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. 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. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. Ms. Beacham has completed the training and linked staff to her facility. 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 June 27, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet • Asbestos- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. This facility was issued a Five Star License on June 26, 2025, and is not due a reassessment at this time. Therefore, a QRIS Conversation Form was not completed today. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Reminders: Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! 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). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. 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/ Annual License Fees Due December 3! Invoices for the Annual License Fee were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments were due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Beacham. 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. 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: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/10/2025 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 12/10/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 10:50 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 26, 2025, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 9, 2025. As of December 9, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 96%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Sanitation – 12/09/2025 – 0 Demerits – Superior Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Your fire inspection is delinquent. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304 (a) states that each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month in advance of the deadline. During my visit, Ms. Beacham contacted the fire inspector to request a fire inspection; she could not speak with anyone but did leave a message. Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. I conducted a walkthrough and observations in all classrooms, unaccompanied. There are five classrooms operating at the facility. There were eighty-six children enrolled and fifty-seven children present, ages 1-5. All approved spaces used by the children were monitored today. Indoor spaces were arranged into activity areas that include but are not limited to language, blocks, art, math, science, sensory, dramatic play, and manipulatives. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were observed in each classroom. The attendance for each classroom was accurately completed. Daily schedules and activity plans were available for each group of children. When I arrived NC PreK children from space #1 were outside playing in fenced play area. I also observed the children in this space and spaces #4 eating lunch. Lunch consisted of tuna and cheese tortilla wrap, green peas, orange slices, and milk. Caregivers were sitting with the children and talking to the children about their lunch and encouraging them to try new foods. Preschool children in space #5 were cleaning up from lunch, completing bathroom/handwashing routines, and preparing for nap/rest time. Toddlers in space #3 were observing nap/rest time. They were observed napping/resting on covered mats with blankets, lights were off, and soft must played. NC Pre-K students in space #2 were having group time; they were discussing light and using a flashlight on the wall to make the light smaller or bigger. Caregiver, Ms. Fields was also making shadows on the wall. As the children got up individually to wash their hands for lunch, Ms. Fields and the children practiced the letters and the sounds of each child’s name. Staff/Child ratios were in compliance, and all children were adequately supervised. Good interactions were observed between caregivers and children. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring There are two NC PreK classrooms at this facility. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings have been completed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2025-2026 was signed by contractor on October 17, 2025, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. 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 and staff files were not monitored today. There have been no new staff members hired since the last annual compliance visit. File for a substitute and required trainings for staff members/volunteers were 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. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. The last fire inspection was completed at this facility on November 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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 December 23, 2024, 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. 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 with your verification 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 always maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules 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. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. 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. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. Ms. Beacham has completed the training and linked staff to her facility. 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 June 27, 2023. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet • Asbestos- Waiting for On-Site Visit Results – No Results yet Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. This facility was issued a Five Star License on June 26, 2025, and is not due a reassessment at this time. Therefore, a QRIS Conversation Form was not completed today. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Reminders: Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! 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). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. 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/ Annual License Fees Due December 3! Invoices for the Annual License Fee were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments were due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Beacham. 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. 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 4/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me and assisted with this visit. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 11, 2018, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 11, 2024. As of April 8, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 100%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/18/2025 – 8 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. NC Pre-K Site MonitoringEighty-eight (88) children, between the ages of one (1) and five (5) years old are enrolled and sixty-five (65) were present today. There are five (5) approved indoor spaces and two (2) approved outdoor spaces. At least five (5) activity areas including language, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art were available in the classroom. Age-appropriate materials and activities were provided for all children. Preschool children assigned to indoor spaces #1 and #2 were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included sand play, water play, cleaning in the dramatic play area, connecting plastic puzzle pieces, Legos, play dough, building with wooden blocks, letter puzzles, and computer games. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Younger preschool children were observed during a group reading. One staff member read “Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You See?” to the group of children, and the other staff member was doing routine diaper changing. Diaper changing was monitored and found to be in compliance. Children assigned to indoor spaces #4 and #5 were observed in the outdoor spaces. The children were running, crawling through tunnels, stepping on leaf stepping stones, observing rock collections, throwing balls, playing musical instruments, and playing with sand toys in the sand area. All staff members in the outdoor spaces were actively involved with the children. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey wraps, oranges, peas, and milk. Food service requirements were monitored, and requirements were met. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. Family Engagement - Parent involvement includes open house, home visits, parent volunteers, family night evens, parent-teacher conferences three times per year, and week of the Young Child family activities. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by contractor on November 18, 2024, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill was recorded in September 2024 then another emergency was recorded in February 2025, which is more than three months. An emergency drill should have been conducted and recorded in December 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 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. 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. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: According to the emergency drill logs, a shelter in place was conducted on September 10, 2024, then another emergency drill (shelter in place) was not conducted until February 3, 2025. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills must be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's EPR plan and recorded in the required form. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year and new staff have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed the lead water test and enrollment for lead-based paint and asbestos has started with no results yet. Therefore, you will need to follow up to ensure you have completed all steps for these two items. To meet requirements, you must enroll your program through Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids in ALL THREE TESTING PROGRAMS. Your facility may be exempt from testing lead-based paint and/or asbestos based on the year built, however it is still required that you enroll in the programs and provide documentation to request exemption. See key points below: -Centers must have water tested for lead every three years. Check the date of your previous testing and ensure you request a new one if your three years are up. -Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 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. Ms. Beacham has elected to move forward with her rated license reassessment. I will send you complete documentation of the summary of your rated license reassessment which will include the total number of points earned in program standard, staff education, and quality point. Your star rating will be based on the total number of points earned. 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 - Space Capacity – Space #2 has a total capacity of 17 children, there were 18 children enrolled and 16 children present today. Also, space #3 has a total capacity of 8 children, there were 9 children enrolled and 8 children were present today. Although you reported today, that there are children who share one enrollment spot, be reminded that each indoor space cannot exceed its capacity at any time. Documentation was completed electronically, reviewed, and signed on site. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. 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.

10A NCAC 09 .3009 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 4/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me and assisted with this visit. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 11, 2018, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 11, 2024. As of April 8, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 100%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/18/2025 – 8 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. NC Pre-K Site MonitoringEighty-eight (88) children, between the ages of one (1) and five (5) years old are enrolled and sixty-five (65) were present today. There are five (5) approved indoor spaces and two (2) approved outdoor spaces. At least five (5) activity areas including language, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art were available in the classroom. Age-appropriate materials and activities were provided for all children. Preschool children assigned to indoor spaces #1 and #2 were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included sand play, water play, cleaning in the dramatic play area, connecting plastic puzzle pieces, Legos, play dough, building with wooden blocks, letter puzzles, and computer games. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Younger preschool children were observed during a group reading. One staff member read “Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You See?” to the group of children, and the other staff member was doing routine diaper changing. Diaper changing was monitored and found to be in compliance. Children assigned to indoor spaces #4 and #5 were observed in the outdoor spaces. The children were running, crawling through tunnels, stepping on leaf stepping stones, observing rock collections, throwing balls, playing musical instruments, and playing with sand toys in the sand area. All staff members in the outdoor spaces were actively involved with the children. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey wraps, oranges, peas, and milk. Food service requirements were monitored, and requirements were met. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. Family Engagement - Parent involvement includes open house, home visits, parent volunteers, family night evens, parent-teacher conferences three times per year, and week of the Young Child family activities. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by contractor on November 18, 2024, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill was recorded in September 2024 then another emergency was recorded in February 2025, which is more than three months. An emergency drill should have been conducted and recorded in December 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 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. 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. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: According to the emergency drill logs, a shelter in place was conducted on September 10, 2024, then another emergency drill (shelter in place) was not conducted until February 3, 2025. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills must be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's EPR plan and recorded in the required form. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year and new staff have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed the lead water test and enrollment for lead-based paint and asbestos has started with no results yet. Therefore, you will need to follow up to ensure you have completed all steps for these two items. To meet requirements, you must enroll your program through Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids in ALL THREE TESTING PROGRAMS. Your facility may be exempt from testing lead-based paint and/or asbestos based on the year built, however it is still required that you enroll in the programs and provide documentation to request exemption. See key points below: -Centers must have water tested for lead every three years. Check the date of your previous testing and ensure you request a new one if your three years are up. -Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 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. Ms. Beacham has elected to move forward with her rated license reassessment. I will send you complete documentation of the summary of your rated license reassessment which will include the total number of points earned in program standard, staff education, and quality point. Your star rating will be based on the total number of points earned. 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 - Space Capacity – Space #2 has a total capacity of 17 children, there were 18 children enrolled and 16 children present today. Also, space #3 has a total capacity of 8 children, there were 9 children enrolled and 8 children were present today. Although you reported today, that there are children who share one enrollment spot, be reminded that each indoor space cannot exceed its capacity at any time. Documentation was completed electronically, reviewed, and signed on site. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. 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. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 4/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me and assisted with this visit. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 11, 2018, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 11, 2024. As of April 8, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 100%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/18/2025 – 8 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. NC Pre-K Site MonitoringEighty-eight (88) children, between the ages of one (1) and five (5) years old are enrolled and sixty-five (65) were present today. There are five (5) approved indoor spaces and two (2) approved outdoor spaces. At least five (5) activity areas including language, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art were available in the classroom. Age-appropriate materials and activities were provided for all children. Preschool children assigned to indoor spaces #1 and #2 were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included sand play, water play, cleaning in the dramatic play area, connecting plastic puzzle pieces, Legos, play dough, building with wooden blocks, letter puzzles, and computer games. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Younger preschool children were observed during a group reading. One staff member read “Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You See?” to the group of children, and the other staff member was doing routine diaper changing. Diaper changing was monitored and found to be in compliance. Children assigned to indoor spaces #4 and #5 were observed in the outdoor spaces. The children were running, crawling through tunnels, stepping on leaf stepping stones, observing rock collections, throwing balls, playing musical instruments, and playing with sand toys in the sand area. All staff members in the outdoor spaces were actively involved with the children. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey wraps, oranges, peas, and milk. Food service requirements were monitored, and requirements were met. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. Family Engagement - Parent involvement includes open house, home visits, parent volunteers, family night evens, parent-teacher conferences three times per year, and week of the Young Child family activities. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by contractor on November 18, 2024, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill was recorded in September 2024 then another emergency was recorded in February 2025, which is more than three months. An emergency drill should have been conducted and recorded in December 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 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. 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. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: According to the emergency drill logs, a shelter in place was conducted on September 10, 2024, then another emergency drill (shelter in place) was not conducted until February 3, 2025. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills must be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's EPR plan and recorded in the required form. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year and new staff have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed the lead water test and enrollment for lead-based paint and asbestos has started with no results yet. Therefore, you will need to follow up to ensure you have completed all steps for these two items. To meet requirements, you must enroll your program through Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids in ALL THREE TESTING PROGRAMS. Your facility may be exempt from testing lead-based paint and/or asbestos based on the year built, however it is still required that you enroll in the programs and provide documentation to request exemption. See key points below: -Centers must have water tested for lead every three years. Check the date of your previous testing and ensure you request a new one if your three years are up. -Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 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. Ms. Beacham has elected to move forward with her rated license reassessment. I will send you complete documentation of the summary of your rated license reassessment which will include the total number of points earned in program standard, staff education, and quality point. Your star rating will be based on the total number of points earned. 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 - Space Capacity – Space #2 has a total capacity of 17 children, there were 18 children enrolled and 16 children present today. Also, space #3 has a total capacity of 8 children, there were 9 children enrolled and 8 children were present today. Although you reported today, that there are children who share one enrollment spot, be reminded that each indoor space cannot exceed its capacity at any time. Documentation was completed electronically, reviewed, and signed on site. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. 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: LITTLE TOWN LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 7155014 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/9/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 4/9/2025 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me and assisted with this visit. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued on June 11, 2018, earning 7 points in Staff Education, 7 points in Program Standards, and a Quality Point by choosing a Program Option. Restrictions on the permit include: an age range of 0-12 with a first shift capacity of 70, meets enhanced ratios/space, certified developmental day – meets ratios in .2902(d) when under contract with Pender Co. Schools. The last annual compliance visit was conducted at this facility on April 11, 2024. As of April 8, 2025, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 100%. 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 Little Town Learning Center, Inc. As of today, the corporation is current and active with the NC Secretary of State. Fire Inspection – 11/05/2024 – Approved for day time care only – Satisfactory Sanitation – 03/18/2025 – 8 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Angela Beacham, was present and available for consultation. NC Pre-K Site MonitoringEighty-eight (88) children, between the ages of one (1) and five (5) years old are enrolled and sixty-five (65) were present today. There are five (5) approved indoor spaces and two (2) approved outdoor spaces. At least five (5) activity areas including language, blocks, manipulatives, dramatic play, and art were available in the classroom. Age-appropriate materials and activities were provided for all children. Preschool children assigned to indoor spaces #1 and #2 were engaged in a variety of free play activities which included sand play, water play, cleaning in the dramatic play area, connecting plastic puzzle pieces, Legos, play dough, building with wooden blocks, letter puzzles, and computer games. Routine toileting and handwashing procedures were monitored, and requirements were met. Younger preschool children were observed during a group reading. One staff member read “Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You See?” to the group of children, and the other staff member was doing routine diaper changing. Diaper changing was monitored and found to be in compliance. Children assigned to indoor spaces #4 and #5 were observed in the outdoor spaces. The children were running, crawling through tunnels, stepping on leaf stepping stones, observing rock collections, throwing balls, playing musical instruments, and playing with sand toys in the sand area. All staff members in the outdoor spaces were actively involved with the children. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey wraps, oranges, peas, and milk. Food service requirements were monitored, and requirements were met. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00am to 2:45pm, meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, Brigance Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. Developmental screenings and health assessments including vision, hearing, and dental screenings were on file for all NC Pre-K children’s files reviewed. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed in children’s files and on the Teaching Strategies GOLD website. Family Engagement - Parent involvement includes open house, home visits, parent volunteers, family night evens, parent-teacher conferences three times per year, and week of the Young Child family activities. The NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Tool for 2024-2025 was signed by contractor on November 18, 2024, and was available for review. It was noted that all requirements were in compliance. There was one violation observed today. Violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is always required. Violation Number Comment Rule 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. An emergency drill was recorded in September 2024 then another emergency was recorded in February 2025, which is more than three months. An emergency drill should have been conducted and recorded in December 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) For your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violation must be corrected immediately. On or before April 16, 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. 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. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: According to the emergency drill logs, a shelter in place was conducted on September 10, 2024, then another emergency drill (shelter in place) was not conducted until February 3, 2025. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills must be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's EPR plan and recorded in the required form. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Other Information: Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year and new staff have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - The registration and enrollment for all three testing programs must be completed – water, lead-based paint and asbestos. I verified through the website Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids that you have completed the lead water test and enrollment for lead-based paint and asbestos has started with no results yet. Therefore, you will need to follow up to ensure you have completed all steps for these two items. To meet requirements, you must enroll your program through Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids in ALL THREE TESTING PROGRAMS. Your facility may be exempt from testing lead-based paint and/or asbestos based on the year built, however it is still required that you enroll in the programs and provide documentation to request exemption. See key points below: -Centers must have water tested for lead every three years. Check the date of your previous testing and ensure you request a new one if your three years are up. -Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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/ Enrollment in the lead-based paint and asbestos testing programs is required for all facilities by May 31, 2025. This applies to private centers, FCCH and child care programs in the public schools. 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! Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 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. Ms. Beacham has elected to move forward with her rated license reassessment. I will send you complete documentation of the summary of your rated license reassessment which will include the total number of points earned in program standard, staff education, and quality point. Your star rating will be based on the total number of points earned. 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 - Space Capacity – Space #2 has a total capacity of 17 children, there were 18 children enrolled and 16 children present today. Also, space #3 has a total capacity of 8 children, there were 9 children enrolled and 8 children were present today. Although you reported today, that there are children who share one enrollment spot, be reminded that each indoor space cannot exceed its capacity at any time. Documentation was completed electronically, reviewed, and signed on site. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. 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