Kiddie Academy OF Cary

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-224L Visit Date: 3/31/2025 Number Present: 91 Completed Date: 3/31/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 03:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this visit was to investigate allegations of non-compliance with the NC Child Care Requirements. A complaint report was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) on March 18, 2025, regarding concerns related to inadequate supervision, children not being attended to in an appropriate and nurturing manner, sanitation and health and inappropriate discipline. Childcare Consultant, Kimberly Girouard, arrived at the facility today at 10:30 am and was greeted by the facility director, Ms. Lasheeka Alston. Child Care Consultant Kimberly Girouard informed Ms. Alston of the purpose of the visit and proceeded with a walkthrough of the facility. DISCUSSIONS AND OBSERVATIONS Child Care Consultant, Kimberly Girouard, completed a walkthrough of the center today, visiting nine (9) classrooms. During the walkthrough, Ms. Girouard observed the staff throughout the building, engaged in the children’s activities, meeting the needs of the children and providing appropriate supervision. Ms. Girouard observed the children engaged in art activities, listening to stories, engaged in outdoor play, participating in picture day, having lunch and going down for nap. Ms. Girouard watched video footage of the three-year-old classroom over the past five school days March 26 – March 31, 2025, which is as far back as the footage is saved and found supervision to be in compliance. Ms. Girouard observed in the video footage, both three-year-old classroom teachers, physically addressing the children’s needs in an age-appropriate manner and not harmful to the children in any way. Allegation #1 There is a concern of inadequate supervision in the three year old classroom. In the complaint report the reporter shared a situation that was observed which involved an incident when the reporter observed the three year old classroom teacher trying to assist a child in the bathroom while at the same time negative interactions were occurring between children in the classroom. On another occasion, the reporter arrived to pick up their child and when the reporter initially entered the classroom the reporter did not see the child and proceeded to the playground where the reporter was told the child was in the classroom using the bathroom. The reporter returned to the classroom where the reporter found their child using the bathroom but there was no teacher in the bathroom area with the reporter’s child but there was a teacher in the classroom adjacent to the bathroom. The reporter mentioned a concern regarding supervision when there is just one teacher in a classroom and the needs of many are having to be met. The reporter stated there was an incident when the reporter observed the classroom teacher trying to assist a child in the bathroom while at the same time negative interactions were occurring between children in the classroom. The reporters’ concerns revolve around one teacher having to meet the needs of multiple situations occurring at the same time. The reporter’s child is three years old. Based on child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. –Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. During a conversation with the reporter, Child Care Consultant, Kimberly Girouard, was told by the reporter that ratios have NOT been observed to be out of compliance but there have been situations where it appeared there were too many needs to be met by the children for one teacher to manage during a particular moment in time leading to concerns regarding supervision. Ms. Girouard was informed by the reporter that since the initiation of the complaint report, discussions have occurred between the reporter, the director and the owner allowing the reporter to feel the concerns mentioned in the complaint report are being addressed. During the facility walkthrough, Ms. Girouard observed the staff providing appropriate supervision. Ms. Girouard also interviewed the facility director, Ms. Lakeesha Alston. Ms. Alston stated she has not observed any concerns with any of her staff regarding supervision. Ms. Alston also mentioned that she has hired eleven new staff over the past four months and currently has a full staff of 28 employees. Based on information received through interviews with the reporter and staff as well as Child Care Consultant, Kimberly Girouard’s observations throughout the visit today, the allegation related to children not being properly supervised was found to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #2 There is a concern that the children’s needs are not being met in a nurturing and appropriate manner. The reporter stated they observed a child throwing food at classmates and observed a staff member see this incident occur but she did not address it. The reporter stated a separate incident was also observed where the same staff member observed a child push a little girl and another child tried to defend the little girl and the same child that pushed the little girl slapped the child that tried to defend her. The reporter stated that the staff member observed this situation and did not intervene. Throughout Child Care Consultant, Kimberly Girouard’s walk through of the facility today, she observed all staff engaged in the children’s activities while meeting the needs of the children in a nurturing and appropriate manner. The facility director, Ms. Alston, stated she is required to conduct classroom observations and watch video of the indoor and outdoor space on a weekly basis. Ms. Alston stated she has not observed any of her staff not meeting the needs of the children in an age appropriate manner. Based on the interviews with the reporter, the facility director, and an additional staff member as well as observations made throughout the visit today, the allegation related to the children’s needs not being met in a nurturing and appropriate manner was found to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #3 There is a concern a teacher at the facility, pulled a child up off of the carpet and set them down on the carpet a bit rougher than needed. The reporter stated they observed a child rolling around on the carpet in the three year old classroom and observed one of the teachers, pull the child up off of the carpet and set them down on the carpet a bit rougher than needed. Throughout today’s visit, Child Care Consultant Kimberly Girouard observed staff appropriately redirecting children. Ms. Girouard did not observe any staff inappropriately disciplining any children throughout her visit at the facility today. Ms. Girouard conducted separate interviews with the facility director, Ms. Alston and an additional staff member and was informed by both the director and additional staff member that they have not observed any staff member in the three year old classroom redirecting children in an inappropriate manner. Based on the interviews with the staff and observations made throughout the visit today the allegation related to inappropriate discipline being directed toward a child was found to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #4 There is a concern the toilet in the three year old classroom is not working as it should and that the children cannot reach the toilet paper. The reporter stated there is a toilet in the three-year-old classroom that is leaking causing water to pool around the toilet. There is also a concern that the children cannot reach the toilet paper when using the bathroom off the three old classroom. The reporter stated that when picking up their child from child care recently, the reporter found the child standing in a pool of water from the leaky toilet. The reporter stated there was no teacher assisting the child and the child’s shorts were wet from sitting in the pool of water that was around the base of the toilet. The reporter also stated the toilet paper is not located where the children can reach it. Child Care Licensing Consultant, Kimberly Girouard, observed one of the toilets in between the three year old classrooms to be leaking today and water was pooling on the ground under the leaky lever used to flush the toilet. The owner of the facility was present throughout the visit today. Ms. Girouard showed the owner, Mr. Sudeep, the leaky toilet. Mr. Sudeep stated he had ordered the piece needing to be replaced and as soon as it arrives the toilet will be fixed. After seeing how quickly water was pooling each time the toilet was flushed, Mr. Sudeep went to an appliance store and purchased the required piece of equipment. Mr. Sudeep also called the plumber, and he came right over to the facility and fixed the toilet. Ms. Girouard did observe the toilet paper in the three year old bathroom to be accessible to the children. Based on the observations made during the visit today the allegation related to sanitation and health was SUBSTANTIATED. Since this violation was corrected while I was at the facility, the violation was marked as corrected during visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. One toilet in the three year old classroom had a leaky handle used to flush the toilet, causing water to pool on the floor. The toilet handle was replaced during today's visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE During today’s visit Ms. Girouard and Ms. Alston discussed the need to periodically offer trainings to staff that will provide ways to manage difficult behaviors and classroom management techniques. Ms. Girouard and Ms. Alston agreed sometimes trainings like these can offer new ways to address issues that teachers have been addressing for years. I suggested Ms. Alston reach out to Early Years and/or Wake County Smart Start. *Wendy Price with Early Years - previously Wake County Child Care Services -wendyp@childcareservices.org *Lynn Policastro with Wake County Smart Start - lpolicastro@wakesmartstart.org If you have any additional questions or concerns, Child Care Consultant, Kimberly Girouard can be reached at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 602-2582. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2025 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 2/10/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 15, 2024. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the director, Ms. LaSheeka Alston. I informed Ms. Alston of the purpose for my visit and began my walk through of the facility. MONITORING During today’s visit, a full assessment was conducted, monitoring all indoor and outdoor space occupied by the children. Staff files were monitored today. A selection of children’s files was monitored. All spaces were monitored for supervision, staff/child ratios, materials, equipment and required postings. A checklist was used to note the requirements that were monitored today. The completed checklist was given to the director at the conclusion of the visit. At the time of my visit there were a total of 83 children present between the ages of 0yrs. – 5yrs. years of age. The children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor play, participating in circle and center time, eating lunch, and going down for nap. Two infant rooms were monitored today. The infants were observed engaged in floor activities and being fed. During my walkthrough of the facility today, I observed the staff engaged in the children’s activities while providing appropriate supervision. LICENSE STATUS Currently this center operates with a Five (5) Star license issued on August 31, 2022. License restrictions are as follows; Meets Daytime care only; Meets enhanced ratios; Meets enhanced space. INSPECTIONS I reviewed all required inspections including fire drills, emergency drills, sanitation, fire, and outdoor inspections. The fire inspection was found to be expired today. The facility’s EPR plan is up to date. CONCLUSION One violation was cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection at this facility was conducted on August 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute all Child Care programs must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your program may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. **Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 90%. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & CONSULTATION Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: CONSULTATION *I recommend coming up with a tickler system to remind you of expiration dates such as maintaining annual inspections as it pertains to DCDEE rules and regulations. RATED LICENSE UPDATE The Third editions of the ECERS, ITERS, and FCCERS are now being used for official assessments; these scales all have a spiral binding on the top. More information about these versions is posted on the NCRLAP and DCDEE websites. I recommend you begin becoming familiar with the new measures so you can properly prepare for future assessments. RESOURCES *The NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center is a valuable resource where you can find skills-based training and technical assistance from your Child Care Health Consultant on specific medications or health conditions, as well as the new poster on Stand-Up Changing Procedures. Sign up for their quarterly newsletter and find updated resources at www.healthychildcare.unc.edu or 800-367-2229, choose option 1, then 2. *The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. Specialists are available with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. A flier with the challenging behaviors hotline information was provided today. *Background Checks - Center directors/owners can now access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS), the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Please link you and your staff asap. This access will allow providers to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. Access to the ABCMS requires the successful completion of a Moodle course consisting of a short video followed by a test. The course is titled ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training - under the Early Childhood Professional Development Tab, then under the Criminal Background (CBC) tab. I emailed Ms. Alston two instruction fliers; ABCMS Provider Codes and Connecting Applications and How to Connect and Hire in ABCMS for assistance. *This facility does have children that require emergency medications. I suggested to the director that she review the names of all enrolled children who have emergency medications at every staff meeting to provide a constant reminder to everyone in the building. And suggested they have their Health Consultant, Daisey Clemmons, conduct an annual training course on the administration of emergency medication to confirm all staff are knowledgeable and comfortable with all required protocols to be followed. *Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please submit a corrective action letter for the violation cited during today's visit. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when they are documented, it is expected that you correct all violations immediately. Your corrective action letter must include the following: Name of your program, Id number of your program, Date of Letter, Violation(s) number(s), and How and When each violation was corrected. Your letter is due no later than February 24, 2025, and should be emailed to Kimberly Girouard at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my supervisor Michele Remington at by email at Michele.Remington@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/10/2025 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 2/10/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during an annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 15, 2024. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the director, Ms. LaSheeka Alston. I informed Ms. Alston of the purpose for my visit and began my walk through of the facility. MONITORING During today’s visit, a full assessment was conducted, monitoring all indoor and outdoor space occupied by the children. Staff files were monitored today. A selection of children’s files was monitored. All spaces were monitored for supervision, staff/child ratios, materials, equipment and required postings. A checklist was used to note the requirements that were monitored today. The completed checklist was given to the director at the conclusion of the visit. At the time of my visit there were a total of 83 children present between the ages of 0yrs. – 5yrs. years of age. The children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor play, participating in circle and center time, eating lunch, and going down for nap. Two infant rooms were monitored today. The infants were observed engaged in floor activities and being fed. During my walkthrough of the facility today, I observed the staff engaged in the children’s activities while providing appropriate supervision. LICENSE STATUS Currently this center operates with a Five (5) Star license issued on August 31, 2022. License restrictions are as follows; Meets Daytime care only; Meets enhanced ratios; Meets enhanced space. INSPECTIONS I reviewed all required inspections including fire drills, emergency drills, sanitation, fire, and outdoor inspections. The fire inspection was found to be expired today. The facility’s EPR plan is up to date. CONCLUSION One violation was cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection at this facility was conducted on August 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute all Child Care programs must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your program may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. **Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 90%. COMPLIANCE HISTORY Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & CONSULTATION Technical Assistance was provided with the following suggestions that may be beneficial: CONSULTATION *I recommend coming up with a tickler system to remind you of expiration dates such as maintaining annual inspections as it pertains to DCDEE rules and regulations. RATED LICENSE UPDATE The Third editions of the ECERS, ITERS, and FCCERS are now being used for official assessments; these scales all have a spiral binding on the top. More information about these versions is posted on the NCRLAP and DCDEE websites. I recommend you begin becoming familiar with the new measures so you can properly prepare for future assessments. RESOURCES *The NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center is a valuable resource where you can find skills-based training and technical assistance from your Child Care Health Consultant on specific medications or health conditions, as well as the new poster on Stand-Up Changing Procedures. Sign up for their quarterly newsletter and find updated resources at www.healthychildcare.unc.edu or 800-367-2229, choose option 1, then 2. *The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. Specialists are available with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. A flier with the challenging behaviors hotline information was provided today. *Background Checks - Center directors/owners can now access the Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS), the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Please link you and your staff asap. This access will allow providers to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. Access to the ABCMS requires the successful completion of a Moodle course consisting of a short video followed by a test. The course is titled ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training - under the Early Childhood Professional Development Tab, then under the Criminal Background (CBC) tab. I emailed Ms. Alston two instruction fliers; ABCMS Provider Codes and Connecting Applications and How to Connect and Hire in ABCMS for assistance. *This facility does have children that require emergency medications. I suggested to the director that she review the names of all enrolled children who have emergency medications at every staff meeting to provide a constant reminder to everyone in the building. And suggested they have their Health Consultant, Daisey Clemmons, conduct an annual training course on the administration of emergency medication to confirm all staff are knowledgeable and comfortable with all required protocols to be followed. *Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please submit a corrective action letter for the violation cited during today's visit. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when they are documented, it is expected that you correct all violations immediately. Your corrective action letter must include the following: Name of your program, Id number of your program, Date of Letter, Violation(s) number(s), and How and When each violation was corrected. Your letter is due no later than February 24, 2025, and should be emailed to Kimberly Girouard at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my supervisor Michele Remington at by email at Michele.Remington@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0924-286L Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 82 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this visit was to investigate allegations of non-compliance with the NC Child Care Requirements. A report was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on September 19, 2024, and an update to the September 19, 2024, report was received on September 24, 2024. I arrived at the facility at 8:50am on the morning of October 1, 2024. I was greeted by the facility owner, Mr. Chandak. I informed him of the reason for my visit and immediately started my walkthrough of the facility. Mr. Chandak informed me the Director was out on leave and the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, would be arriving to the facility soon. The following concerns were identified in the report received by the agency on September 19, 2024, and September 24, 2024. 1)There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). 2)There is a concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). 3)There is a concern related to staff qualifications. ALLEGATION 1 There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS *There is a concern regarding staff:child ratios in the older infant room that occurred on September 18, 2024. Information was shared that at 8:20 a.m., on September 18, 2024, there were seven (7) children in the classroom with one (1) teacher, and a parent dropped off their child, which brought the total to eight (8) children. This facility does have cameras throughout the building, including in each classroom, and parents can view their children throughout the day. When I requested to view the video feed captured on September 18, 2024, I was informed by the owner, Mr. Chandak, that the video feed is viewable for 7 days and not available to view after the seventh day. Therefore, I was not able to view any video footage from September 18, 2024. During my visit on October 1, 2024, I interviewed staff and was informed by one staff member that she was by herself for a few minutes on the morning of September 18, 2024, with eight (8) babies. I reviewed sign in/out logs for children and staff for the period of 9/18/24-9/23/24 and The Name-To-Face Transition Sheet from September 18, 2024, and I was able to confirm that on September 18, 2024, staff/child ratios were out of compliance between the time of 8:16am – 8:25am. The Name-To-Face Transition Sheet confirmed between the time of 8:16am – 8:25am there were 8 infants present with one caregiver. RESOLUTION Based on observations, documents reviewed, staff interviews and information obtained during the visit, I was able to determine that in the older infant classroom (rm 102) the required 1:5 staff/child ratio was not maintained the morning of September 18, 2024, between 8:16am – 8:25am. Therefore, the allegation that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for infants was SUBSTANTIATED. ALLEGATION #2 According to the reporter, there are concerns of inadequate supervision. OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS *There were concerns about supervision in the classroom for 2 yr old children based on observations of video footage (no specific date was included in the report). The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she took the call from a parent that shared a child had a bag over their head. Ms Barham immediately went into the classroom but when she walked in the classroom, she did not observe a child with a bag over its head. The teacher in the classroom that day, Ms. Sarkar, stated she was in the classroom by herself, and she did observe a child put a cloth bag over its head. Ms. Sarkar stated she was walking through the library center when she observed a child in the housekeeping center put a cloth bag over its head and she immediately removed it. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated there are no longer any bags in the classroom. *Information was received that based on video footage, in the classroom for older infants, a child was observed alone on one side of the room, out of sight of the teachers and unsupervised for over 15 minutes. The area of the room the child was in is located in front of the diaper changing area. The older infants are located in an L-shaped classroom. The diaper changing area is closed off by a half wall allowing for staff to be in the diaper changing area with the ability to properly supervise infants playing on the floor in front of and on the side of the diaper changing area. I received photographic evidence of the infant room (rm 102). This piece of photographic evidence provided of the infant room showed a child on the floor in front of the diaper changing area but did not show the diaper changing area itself where a staff member could have been standing to provide appropriate supervision. I was not able to view video footage of this incident because it occurred more than 7 days prior to my visit on October 1, 2024. *Additional information regarding concerns with supervision in the older infant room (rm 102) was provided on September 24, 2024. The reporter stated that she arrived at the facility at 4pm on September 23, 2024, to pick up her children. The reporter stated when she entered the infant room (rm 102) the classroom teacher informed her that her child, who is a mobile infant, had fallen and hit his head on a bookshelf and that the incident occurred at 12:50pm. The reporter stated the teacher informed her that ice was applied to her child’s forehead and that she observed the entire incident. The reporter stated she did not receive a phone call from the facility informing her of the incident and that the classroom teacher stated the Assistant Director was supposed to call her. The reporter stated as she continued to inspect her child’s forehead, she observed a large red bruise with blue discoloration on the side of her child’s head. The reporter stated she became more concerned and spoke to the owner before leaving the facility on September 23, 2024. The reporter stated she requested to view video footage and observed at 12:50pm her infant child was near a crib and bumped its head on the crib, not the bookshelf as stated in the incident report. The reporter stated she did not sign the incident report because the report stated the injury came from her child bumping its head on a bookshelf not on the crib as documented in the incident report. While observing the older infant classroom (rm. 102) on October 1, 2024, I asked the assigned infant room teachers, who were both in the classroom when the incident occurred on September 23, 2024, to share with me how the infant received the mark on its forehead. Both teachers shared the same story, that the infant was laying on its tummy near the smaller bookshelf and rolled over into the wooden bookshelf and bumped its head on the bookshelf. The assistant teacher stated she put an ice compress on the child’s forehead for a few minutes and then put the infant back on the play mat and the infant immediately crawled over to the crib and was reaching up to pull itself up and bumped its head on the Plexiglas on the end of the crib closest to the door leading to the outside area. The lead teacher stated she saw the incident occur and put ice on the infant’s head. The assistant director confirmed that the lead teacher saw her walking down the hall after the incident occurred and the lead infant room teacher stuck her head out of the classroom to inform the assistant director that the infant had bumped its head, an ice compress was applied, and the infant was ok. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she told the lead teacher she would call the child’s parent but as she was walking up to the office to call the parent and inform her of the incident a teacher in a different classroom needed assistance with a child and she proceeded to that classroom. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, confirmed a call to the parent did not occur. The incident report was given to the parent when she arrived to pick up her child that afternoon, but the report did not include both pieces of furniture that the child bumped its head on, just the bookshelf was mentioned not the crib. I talked to the infant classroom teacher and the assistant director separately about this incident and they all explained the situation in the same manner sharing the infant bumped its head on the bookshelf was treated with an ice compress, quickly calmed down, was placed back on the play mat and immediately crawled over to a nearby crib and bumped its head on the crib. *During my interview with the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, regarding the allegation, Ms. Barham stated she is in and out of all the classrooms throughout the day and has not observed supervision issues. *During my visit on October 1, 2024, I discussed supervision with classroom staff throughout my walkthrough of the facility and no concerns were shared with me regarding supervision being out of compliance. *During my walkthrough of the facility on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, I observed all children in all rooms to be adequately supervised. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playground while meeting the needs of the children and providing appropriate supervision. I observed staff reading books to children, leading art activities, moving about the classroom assisting with center time, changing diapers, conducting circle time, and assisting the children during lunch time. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and discussions with the administrator and staff at the child care center, the allegation related to supervision for infants has been determined to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #3 According to the reporter, there is a concern regarding staff qualifications. OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS During my interview with the reporter, I was informed of concerns regarding staff qualifications for staff members that substitute in various classrooms throughout the facility. After review of all staff files, all staff were qualified based on GS110-91. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and staff file review, the allegation related to staff qualifications has been determined to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report completed for an infant on September 23, 2024 did not include the correct documentation. An infant bumped its head twice within minutes of each other but the description of how and when the infant bumped its head the second time was not included in the accident/injury report given to the parent on September 23, 2024. .0802 (e) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member was found to have an expired First Aid certification. The First Aid certification expired on July 22, 2024. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member was found to have an expired CPR certification. The CPR certification expired on July 22, 2024. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On September 18, 2024 there was one teacher caring for eight (8) infants in Infant room 102 from 8:16am - 8:25am. The required enhanced ratio of one (1) teacher to five (5) infants was not met. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 During my walkthrough of the of the toddler and preschool classrooms, on October 1, 2024, I observed all children in all rooms to be adequately supervised. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playground while meeting the needs of the children and providing appropriate supervision. I observed staff reading books to children, leading art activities, assisting with center time, changing diapers, conducting circle time, and assisting the children during lunch and nap time. While monitoring infant room 101 today I observed one staff member caring for three (3) infants. Throughout my visit today, I was in and out of classroom 101 and observed two infants napping, one infant being fed and the infants engaged in tummy time on the mats. While visiting classroom 102 today I observed seven (7) infants present with two staff members. I was in and out of classroom 102 throughout my visit at the center and the staff were observed changing diapers, feeding babies bottles and engaged in floor activities with the children. While visiting all the classrooms today, I observed staff-child ratios and supervision to be in compliance. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: *The current director is out on leave and the owner of the facility, Mr. Chandak, and Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, confirmed that they are currently short-staffed and have been experiencing a shortage of qualified applicants. Ms. Barham stated she has conducted a few interviews and did extend two offers that were accepted. One applicant started on Monday, September 30, 2024, and the second applicant is scheduled to start October 14, 2024. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she is assisting in classrooms while they continue to work on hiring more staff. *The facility owner, the facility assistant director, and I discussed the importance of maintaining staff/child ratios at all times. We also discussed ways to avoid staff/child ratios being out of compliance moving forward which could include pausing the enrollment process until additional staff can be hired and trained to confirm staff/child ratios are being consistently met on a daily basis. We also discussed the possibility of closing classrooms when ratios cannot be met. The owner stated the want to provide a positive healthy environment for all the children all of the time and the importance of not just keeping the children happy but also the parents happy. I was informed by the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, that effective Monday, September 30, 2024, there will be two staff members in the older infant room (rm 102) at 7:30am Monday - Friday. *I suggested using the staff file checklist found on the DCDEE website under the provider tab to confirm each staff members file is complete at all times and ready for review when necessary. OBSERVATIONS/SUGGESTIONS *I suggested to the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, that she set aside time during the next staff meeting to review Incident Reports with all the staff which should include discussing how important it is to thoroughly complete each line item especially when recording the description of the incident/injury, how it occurred, and the part of the body that was injured. It is extremely important that this document be thoroughly completed at all times. *The owner, Mr. Chandak, the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, and I discussed the importance of confirming all new staff are properly trained before placing them on their own in a classroom. *I am consistently hearing concerns that revolve around finding qualified staff with experience working with children. As well as the concerns revolving around the growing staff turnover rate in child care facilities. These same concerns were discussed today with the facility owner, Mr. Chandak, and the facility Assistant Director, Ms. Barham. During my walkthrough of the facility today, I observed very active children in the older toddler through preschool classrooms. I suggested the administrative staff reach out to Wake County Smart Start ( 919- 851-9550) or Child Care Services Association (919-967-3272) to request some staff training on classroom management techniques for active and busy classrooms as well as direct their staff to trainings on these same topics that are offered on the NCRLAP website (https://ncrlap.org/Resources/Training/Default.asp). Providing staff with a variety of classroom management techniques to use during busy times of the day can prove to be extremely helpful in maintaining a positive and productive classroom environment. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before October 15, 2024. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kimberly Girouard PO Box 1184 Wake Forest, NC 27588 Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my supervisor Michele Remington at by email at Michele.Remington@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0924-286L Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 82 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this visit was to investigate allegations of non-compliance with the NC Child Care Requirements. A report was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on September 19, 2024, and an update to the September 19, 2024, report was received on September 24, 2024. I arrived at the facility at 8:50am on the morning of October 1, 2024. I was greeted by the facility owner, Mr. Chandak. I informed him of the reason for my visit and immediately started my walkthrough of the facility. Mr. Chandak informed me the Director was out on leave and the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, would be arriving to the facility soon. The following concerns were identified in the report received by the agency on September 19, 2024, and September 24, 2024. 1)There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). 2)There is a concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). 3)There is a concern related to staff qualifications. ALLEGATION 1 There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS *There is a concern regarding staff:child ratios in the older infant room that occurred on September 18, 2024. Information was shared that at 8:20 a.m., on September 18, 2024, there were seven (7) children in the classroom with one (1) teacher, and a parent dropped off their child, which brought the total to eight (8) children. This facility does have cameras throughout the building, including in each classroom, and parents can view their children throughout the day. When I requested to view the video feed captured on September 18, 2024, I was informed by the owner, Mr. Chandak, that the video feed is viewable for 7 days and not available to view after the seventh day. Therefore, I was not able to view any video footage from September 18, 2024. During my visit on October 1, 2024, I interviewed staff and was informed by one staff member that she was by herself for a few minutes on the morning of September 18, 2024, with eight (8) babies. I reviewed sign in/out logs for children and staff for the period of 9/18/24-9/23/24 and The Name-To-Face Transition Sheet from September 18, 2024, and I was able to confirm that on September 18, 2024, staff/child ratios were out of compliance between the time of 8:16am – 8:25am. The Name-To-Face Transition Sheet confirmed between the time of 8:16am – 8:25am there were 8 infants present with one caregiver. RESOLUTION Based on observations, documents reviewed, staff interviews and information obtained during the visit, I was able to determine that in the older infant classroom (rm 102) the required 1:5 staff/child ratio was not maintained the morning of September 18, 2024, between 8:16am – 8:25am. Therefore, the allegation that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for infants was SUBSTANTIATED. ALLEGATION #2 According to the reporter, there are concerns of inadequate supervision. OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS *There were concerns about supervision in the classroom for 2 yr old children based on observations of video footage (no specific date was included in the report). The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she took the call from a parent that shared a child had a bag over their head. Ms Barham immediately went into the classroom but when she walked in the classroom, she did not observe a child with a bag over its head. The teacher in the classroom that day, Ms. Sarkar, stated she was in the classroom by herself, and she did observe a child put a cloth bag over its head. Ms. Sarkar stated she was walking through the library center when she observed a child in the housekeeping center put a cloth bag over its head and she immediately removed it. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated there are no longer any bags in the classroom. *Information was received that based on video footage, in the classroom for older infants, a child was observed alone on one side of the room, out of sight of the teachers and unsupervised for over 15 minutes. The area of the room the child was in is located in front of the diaper changing area. The older infants are located in an L-shaped classroom. The diaper changing area is closed off by a half wall allowing for staff to be in the diaper changing area with the ability to properly supervise infants playing on the floor in front of and on the side of the diaper changing area. I received photographic evidence of the infant room (rm 102). This piece of photographic evidence provided of the infant room showed a child on the floor in front of the diaper changing area but did not show the diaper changing area itself where a staff member could have been standing to provide appropriate supervision. I was not able to view video footage of this incident because it occurred more than 7 days prior to my visit on October 1, 2024. *Additional information regarding concerns with supervision in the older infant room (rm 102) was provided on September 24, 2024. The reporter stated that she arrived at the facility at 4pm on September 23, 2024, to pick up her children. The reporter stated when she entered the infant room (rm 102) the classroom teacher informed her that her child, who is a mobile infant, had fallen and hit his head on a bookshelf and that the incident occurred at 12:50pm. The reporter stated the teacher informed her that ice was applied to her child’s forehead and that she observed the entire incident. The reporter stated she did not receive a phone call from the facility informing her of the incident and that the classroom teacher stated the Assistant Director was supposed to call her. The reporter stated as she continued to inspect her child’s forehead, she observed a large red bruise with blue discoloration on the side of her child’s head. The reporter stated she became more concerned and spoke to the owner before leaving the facility on September 23, 2024. The reporter stated she requested to view video footage and observed at 12:50pm her infant child was near a crib and bumped its head on the crib, not the bookshelf as stated in the incident report. The reporter stated she did not sign the incident report because the report stated the injury came from her child bumping its head on a bookshelf not on the crib as documented in the incident report. While observing the older infant classroom (rm. 102) on October 1, 2024, I asked the assigned infant room teachers, who were both in the classroom when the incident occurred on September 23, 2024, to share with me how the infant received the mark on its forehead. Both teachers shared the same story, that the infant was laying on its tummy near the smaller bookshelf and rolled over into the wooden bookshelf and bumped its head on the bookshelf. The assistant teacher stated she put an ice compress on the child’s forehead for a few minutes and then put the infant back on the play mat and the infant immediately crawled over to the crib and was reaching up to pull itself up and bumped its head on the Plexiglas on the end of the crib closest to the door leading to the outside area. The lead teacher stated she saw the incident occur and put ice on the infant’s head. The assistant director confirmed that the lead teacher saw her walking down the hall after the incident occurred and the lead infant room teacher stuck her head out of the classroom to inform the assistant director that the infant had bumped its head, an ice compress was applied, and the infant was ok. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she told the lead teacher she would call the child’s parent but as she was walking up to the office to call the parent and inform her of the incident a teacher in a different classroom needed assistance with a child and she proceeded to that classroom. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, confirmed a call to the parent did not occur. The incident report was given to the parent when she arrived to pick up her child that afternoon, but the report did not include both pieces of furniture that the child bumped its head on, just the bookshelf was mentioned not the crib. I talked to the infant classroom teacher and the assistant director separately about this incident and they all explained the situation in the same manner sharing the infant bumped its head on the bookshelf was treated with an ice compress, quickly calmed down, was placed back on the play mat and immediately crawled over to a nearby crib and bumped its head on the crib. *During my interview with the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, regarding the allegation, Ms. Barham stated she is in and out of all the classrooms throughout the day and has not observed supervision issues. *During my visit on October 1, 2024, I discussed supervision with classroom staff throughout my walkthrough of the facility and no concerns were shared with me regarding supervision being out of compliance. *During my walkthrough of the facility on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, I observed all children in all rooms to be adequately supervised. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playground while meeting the needs of the children and providing appropriate supervision. I observed staff reading books to children, leading art activities, moving about the classroom assisting with center time, changing diapers, conducting circle time, and assisting the children during lunch time. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and discussions with the administrator and staff at the child care center, the allegation related to supervision for infants has been determined to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #3 According to the reporter, there is a concern regarding staff qualifications. OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS During my interview with the reporter, I was informed of concerns regarding staff qualifications for staff members that substitute in various classrooms throughout the facility. After review of all staff files, all staff were qualified based on GS110-91. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and staff file review, the allegation related to staff qualifications has been determined to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report completed for an infant on September 23, 2024 did not include the correct documentation. An infant bumped its head twice within minutes of each other but the description of how and when the infant bumped its head the second time was not included in the accident/injury report given to the parent on September 23, 2024. .0802 (e) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member was found to have an expired First Aid certification. The First Aid certification expired on July 22, 2024. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member was found to have an expired CPR certification. The CPR certification expired on July 22, 2024. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On September 18, 2024 there was one teacher caring for eight (8) infants in Infant room 102 from 8:16am - 8:25am. The required enhanced ratio of one (1) teacher to five (5) infants was not met. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 During my walkthrough of the of the toddler and preschool classrooms, on October 1, 2024, I observed all children in all rooms to be adequately supervised. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playground while meeting the needs of the children and providing appropriate supervision. I observed staff reading books to children, leading art activities, assisting with center time, changing diapers, conducting circle time, and assisting the children during lunch and nap time. While monitoring infant room 101 today I observed one staff member caring for three (3) infants. Throughout my visit today, I was in and out of classroom 101 and observed two infants napping, one infant being fed and the infants engaged in tummy time on the mats. While visiting classroom 102 today I observed seven (7) infants present with two staff members. I was in and out of classroom 102 throughout my visit at the center and the staff were observed changing diapers, feeding babies bottles and engaged in floor activities with the children. While visiting all the classrooms today, I observed staff-child ratios and supervision to be in compliance. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: *The current director is out on leave and the owner of the facility, Mr. Chandak, and Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, confirmed that they are currently short-staffed and have been experiencing a shortage of qualified applicants. Ms. Barham stated she has conducted a few interviews and did extend two offers that were accepted. One applicant started on Monday, September 30, 2024, and the second applicant is scheduled to start October 14, 2024. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she is assisting in classrooms while they continue to work on hiring more staff. *The facility owner, the facility assistant director, and I discussed the importance of maintaining staff/child ratios at all times. We also discussed ways to avoid staff/child ratios being out of compliance moving forward which could include pausing the enrollment process until additional staff can be hired and trained to confirm staff/child ratios are being consistently met on a daily basis. We also discussed the possibility of closing classrooms when ratios cannot be met. The owner stated the want to provide a positive healthy environment for all the children all of the time and the importance of not just keeping the children happy but also the parents happy. I was informed by the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, that effective Monday, September 30, 2024, there will be two staff members in the older infant room (rm 102) at 7:30am Monday - Friday. *I suggested using the staff file checklist found on the DCDEE website under the provider tab to confirm each staff members file is complete at all times and ready for review when necessary. OBSERVATIONS/SUGGESTIONS *I suggested to the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, that she set aside time during the next staff meeting to review Incident Reports with all the staff which should include discussing how important it is to thoroughly complete each line item especially when recording the description of the incident/injury, how it occurred, and the part of the body that was injured. It is extremely important that this document be thoroughly completed at all times. *The owner, Mr. Chandak, the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, and I discussed the importance of confirming all new staff are properly trained before placing them on their own in a classroom. *I am consistently hearing concerns that revolve around finding qualified staff with experience working with children. As well as the concerns revolving around the growing staff turnover rate in child care facilities. These same concerns were discussed today with the facility owner, Mr. Chandak, and the facility Assistant Director, Ms. Barham. During my walkthrough of the facility today, I observed very active children in the older toddler through preschool classrooms. I suggested the administrative staff reach out to Wake County Smart Start ( 919- 851-9550) or Child Care Services Association (919-967-3272) to request some staff training on classroom management techniques for active and busy classrooms as well as direct their staff to trainings on these same topics that are offered on the NCRLAP website (https://ncrlap.org/Resources/Training/Default.asp). Providing staff with a variety of classroom management techniques to use during busy times of the day can prove to be extremely helpful in maintaining a positive and productive classroom environment. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before October 15, 2024. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kimberly Girouard PO Box 1184 Wake Forest, NC 27588 Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my supervisor Michele Remington at by email at Michele.Remington@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0924-286L Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 82 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 415 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this visit was to investigate allegations of non-compliance with the NC Child Care Requirements. A report was received by the Division of Child Development and Early Education on September 19, 2024, and an update to the September 19, 2024, report was received on September 24, 2024. I arrived at the facility at 8:50am on the morning of October 1, 2024. I was greeted by the facility owner, Mr. Chandak. I informed him of the reason for my visit and immediately started my walkthrough of the facility. Mr. Chandak informed me the Director was out on leave and the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, would be arriving to the facility soon. The following concerns were identified in the report received by the agency on September 19, 2024, and September 24, 2024. 1)There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). 2)There is a concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). 3)There is a concern related to staff qualifications. ALLEGATION 1 There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for older infants (rm 102). OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS *There is a concern regarding staff:child ratios in the older infant room that occurred on September 18, 2024. Information was shared that at 8:20 a.m., on September 18, 2024, there were seven (7) children in the classroom with one (1) teacher, and a parent dropped off their child, which brought the total to eight (8) children. This facility does have cameras throughout the building, including in each classroom, and parents can view their children throughout the day. When I requested to view the video feed captured on September 18, 2024, I was informed by the owner, Mr. Chandak, that the video feed is viewable for 7 days and not available to view after the seventh day. Therefore, I was not able to view any video footage from September 18, 2024. During my visit on October 1, 2024, I interviewed staff and was informed by one staff member that she was by herself for a few minutes on the morning of September 18, 2024, with eight (8) babies. I reviewed sign in/out logs for children and staff for the period of 9/18/24-9/23/24 and The Name-To-Face Transition Sheet from September 18, 2024, and I was able to confirm that on September 18, 2024, staff/child ratios were out of compliance between the time of 8:16am – 8:25am. The Name-To-Face Transition Sheet confirmed between the time of 8:16am – 8:25am there were 8 infants present with one caregiver. RESOLUTION Based on observations, documents reviewed, staff interviews and information obtained during the visit, I was able to determine that in the older infant classroom (rm 102) the required 1:5 staff/child ratio was not maintained the morning of September 18, 2024, between 8:16am – 8:25am. Therefore, the allegation that the posted staff/child ratio is not being followed in the classroom for infants was SUBSTANTIATED. ALLEGATION #2 According to the reporter, there are concerns of inadequate supervision. OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS *There were concerns about supervision in the classroom for 2 yr old children based on observations of video footage (no specific date was included in the report). The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she took the call from a parent that shared a child had a bag over their head. Ms Barham immediately went into the classroom but when she walked in the classroom, she did not observe a child with a bag over its head. The teacher in the classroom that day, Ms. Sarkar, stated she was in the classroom by herself, and she did observe a child put a cloth bag over its head. Ms. Sarkar stated she was walking through the library center when she observed a child in the housekeeping center put a cloth bag over its head and she immediately removed it. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated there are no longer any bags in the classroom. *Information was received that based on video footage, in the classroom for older infants, a child was observed alone on one side of the room, out of sight of the teachers and unsupervised for over 15 minutes. The area of the room the child was in is located in front of the diaper changing area. The older infants are located in an L-shaped classroom. The diaper changing area is closed off by a half wall allowing for staff to be in the diaper changing area with the ability to properly supervise infants playing on the floor in front of and on the side of the diaper changing area. I received photographic evidence of the infant room (rm 102). This piece of photographic evidence provided of the infant room showed a child on the floor in front of the diaper changing area but did not show the diaper changing area itself where a staff member could have been standing to provide appropriate supervision. I was not able to view video footage of this incident because it occurred more than 7 days prior to my visit on October 1, 2024. *Additional information regarding concerns with supervision in the older infant room (rm 102) was provided on September 24, 2024. The reporter stated that she arrived at the facility at 4pm on September 23, 2024, to pick up her children. The reporter stated when she entered the infant room (rm 102) the classroom teacher informed her that her child, who is a mobile infant, had fallen and hit his head on a bookshelf and that the incident occurred at 12:50pm. The reporter stated the teacher informed her that ice was applied to her child’s forehead and that she observed the entire incident. The reporter stated she did not receive a phone call from the facility informing her of the incident and that the classroom teacher stated the Assistant Director was supposed to call her. The reporter stated as she continued to inspect her child’s forehead, she observed a large red bruise with blue discoloration on the side of her child’s head. The reporter stated she became more concerned and spoke to the owner before leaving the facility on September 23, 2024. The reporter stated she requested to view video footage and observed at 12:50pm her infant child was near a crib and bumped its head on the crib, not the bookshelf as stated in the incident report. The reporter stated she did not sign the incident report because the report stated the injury came from her child bumping its head on a bookshelf not on the crib as documented in the incident report. While observing the older infant classroom (rm. 102) on October 1, 2024, I asked the assigned infant room teachers, who were both in the classroom when the incident occurred on September 23, 2024, to share with me how the infant received the mark on its forehead. Both teachers shared the same story, that the infant was laying on its tummy near the smaller bookshelf and rolled over into the wooden bookshelf and bumped its head on the bookshelf. The assistant teacher stated she put an ice compress on the child’s forehead for a few minutes and then put the infant back on the play mat and the infant immediately crawled over to the crib and was reaching up to pull itself up and bumped its head on the Plexiglas on the end of the crib closest to the door leading to the outside area. The lead teacher stated she saw the incident occur and put ice on the infant’s head. The assistant director confirmed that the lead teacher saw her walking down the hall after the incident occurred and the lead infant room teacher stuck her head out of the classroom to inform the assistant director that the infant had bumped its head, an ice compress was applied, and the infant was ok. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she told the lead teacher she would call the child’s parent but as she was walking up to the office to call the parent and inform her of the incident a teacher in a different classroom needed assistance with a child and she proceeded to that classroom. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, confirmed a call to the parent did not occur. The incident report was given to the parent when she arrived to pick up her child that afternoon, but the report did not include both pieces of furniture that the child bumped its head on, just the bookshelf was mentioned not the crib. I talked to the infant classroom teacher and the assistant director separately about this incident and they all explained the situation in the same manner sharing the infant bumped its head on the bookshelf was treated with an ice compress, quickly calmed down, was placed back on the play mat and immediately crawled over to a nearby crib and bumped its head on the crib. *During my interview with the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, regarding the allegation, Ms. Barham stated she is in and out of all the classrooms throughout the day and has not observed supervision issues. *During my visit on October 1, 2024, I discussed supervision with classroom staff throughout my walkthrough of the facility and no concerns were shared with me regarding supervision being out of compliance. *During my walkthrough of the facility on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, I observed all children in all rooms to be adequately supervised. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playground while meeting the needs of the children and providing appropriate supervision. I observed staff reading books to children, leading art activities, moving about the classroom assisting with center time, changing diapers, conducting circle time, and assisting the children during lunch time. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and discussions with the administrator and staff at the child care center, the allegation related to supervision for infants has been determined to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Allegation #3 According to the reporter, there is a concern regarding staff qualifications. OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSIONS During my interview with the reporter, I was informed of concerns regarding staff qualifications for staff members that substitute in various classrooms throughout the facility. After review of all staff files, all staff were qualified based on GS110-91. RESOLUTION Based on my observations and staff file review, the allegation related to staff qualifications has been determined to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report completed for an infant on September 23, 2024 did not include the correct documentation. An infant bumped its head twice within minutes of each other but the description of how and when the infant bumped its head the second time was not included in the accident/injury report given to the parent on September 23, 2024. .0802 (e) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member was found to have an expired First Aid certification. The First Aid certification expired on July 22, 2024. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member was found to have an expired CPR certification. The CPR certification expired on July 22, 2024. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On September 18, 2024 there was one teacher caring for eight (8) infants in Infant room 102 from 8:16am - 8:25am. The required enhanced ratio of one (1) teacher to five (5) infants was not met. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 During my walkthrough of the of the toddler and preschool classrooms, on October 1, 2024, I observed all children in all rooms to be adequately supervised. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playground while meeting the needs of the children and providing appropriate supervision. I observed staff reading books to children, leading art activities, assisting with center time, changing diapers, conducting circle time, and assisting the children during lunch and nap time. While monitoring infant room 101 today I observed one staff member caring for three (3) infants. Throughout my visit today, I was in and out of classroom 101 and observed two infants napping, one infant being fed and the infants engaged in tummy time on the mats. While visiting classroom 102 today I observed seven (7) infants present with two staff members. I was in and out of classroom 102 throughout my visit at the center and the staff were observed changing diapers, feeding babies bottles and engaged in floor activities with the children. While visiting all the classrooms today, I observed staff-child ratios and supervision to be in compliance. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: *The current director is out on leave and the owner of the facility, Mr. Chandak, and Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, confirmed that they are currently short-staffed and have been experiencing a shortage of qualified applicants. Ms. Barham stated she has conducted a few interviews and did extend two offers that were accepted. One applicant started on Monday, September 30, 2024, and the second applicant is scheduled to start October 14, 2024. The Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, stated she is assisting in classrooms while they continue to work on hiring more staff. *The facility owner, the facility assistant director, and I discussed the importance of maintaining staff/child ratios at all times. We also discussed ways to avoid staff/child ratios being out of compliance moving forward which could include pausing the enrollment process until additional staff can be hired and trained to confirm staff/child ratios are being consistently met on a daily basis. We also discussed the possibility of closing classrooms when ratios cannot be met. The owner stated the want to provide a positive healthy environment for all the children all of the time and the importance of not just keeping the children happy but also the parents happy. I was informed by the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, that effective Monday, September 30, 2024, there will be two staff members in the older infant room (rm 102) at 7:30am Monday - Friday. *I suggested using the staff file checklist found on the DCDEE website under the provider tab to confirm each staff members file is complete at all times and ready for review when necessary. OBSERVATIONS/SUGGESTIONS *I suggested to the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, that she set aside time during the next staff meeting to review Incident Reports with all the staff which should include discussing how important it is to thoroughly complete each line item especially when recording the description of the incident/injury, how it occurred, and the part of the body that was injured. It is extremely important that this document be thoroughly completed at all times. *The owner, Mr. Chandak, the Assistant Director, Ms. Barham, and I discussed the importance of confirming all new staff are properly trained before placing them on their own in a classroom. *I am consistently hearing concerns that revolve around finding qualified staff with experience working with children. As well as the concerns revolving around the growing staff turnover rate in child care facilities. These same concerns were discussed today with the facility owner, Mr. Chandak, and the facility Assistant Director, Ms. Barham. During my walkthrough of the facility today, I observed very active children in the older toddler through preschool classrooms. I suggested the administrative staff reach out to Wake County Smart Start ( 919- 851-9550) or Child Care Services Association (919-967-3272) to request some staff training on classroom management techniques for active and busy classrooms as well as direct their staff to trainings on these same topics that are offered on the NCRLAP website (https://ncrlap.org/Resources/Training/Default.asp). Providing staff with a variety of classroom management techniques to use during busy times of the day can prove to be extremely helpful in maintaining a positive and productive classroom environment. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before October 15, 2024. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kimberly Girouard PO Box 1184 Wake Forest, NC 27588 Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my supervisor Michele Remington at by email at Michele.Remington@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: SCOTT MOORE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/15/2024 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 2/15/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 115 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 10:25 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable childcare requirements during your Annual Compliance visit. Applicable childcare requirements and the inspection was discussed with Administrator, Lasheeka Prokop. Currently this facility operates with a 5 star license effective August 31, 2022. During the visit I monitored the indoor and outdoor spaces used for child care. I observed children during routine activities. I observed whole group activities and free play activities. Children were observed playing outside during outdoor play with adequate supervision. Age appropriate materials and equipment was accessible to all children. The facility was monitored for compliance using the annual compliance monitoring checklist. I also monitored, permit restrictions, posting requirements, training requirements, use of approved space, program records, and nutrition. 10 children's records were reviewed and staff records were reviewed along with the staff and training worksheet. The last fire inspection was completed 8/8/23. The last fire drill was completed on 1/24/24. The last shelter-in-place drill was completed 12/15/23. The operation's EPR plan was last updated 2/22/23. Diaper creams and suntan lotions were observed to have current permissions in all rooms. Sleep checks were observed to be completed. One emergency medication was observed in the operation to meet all requirement with current permissions on file. Transportation is not provided by this facility. I observed 1 violation during this inspection. Violation Number Comment Rule 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One caregiver did not have documentation of current CPR on file. .1102(d) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed by February 28, 2024 stating that all violations have been corrected. The letter can be emailed to scott.moore@dhhs.nc.gov or mailed to: Scott Moore 5 Seawell Ct Durham, NC 27703 If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by February 28, 2024 you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases the timeline may be extended. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during today's visit may negatively impact your compliance score. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Rated License permit renewals have resumed. Your operation falls under cohort 3 in which your planning years began July 1, 2025 and goes through June 30, 2026. Your implementation year will be July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Please use the time during your planning year to upload education documents to WORKS and utilize NCRLAP resources to ensure you are prepared for assessment. If you've had a lead water test in the past it is likely due (every 3 years). Visit cleanwaterforcarolinakids.org and apply for a water test timely before you receive a sanitation inspection. If you have any questions or concerns I can be reached at scott.moore@dhhs.nc.gov or 984-389-7839. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: SCOTT MOORE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/21/2023 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 8/21/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 10:20 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to conduct a routine unannounced inspection. Today's visit was conducted with Lasheeka Prokop, Administrator. When I first arrived I was greeted by Melody Holmes who informed me the Administrator was out at an appointment. The Administrator arrived during my inspection. Children were observed participating in routine activities in their rooms and playing outside. A partial assessment of applicable childcare requirements was conducted. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 2/21/23. The last sanitation inspection was completed 3/20/23. The last fire inspection was completed 3/25/22. The LLC for the operation was observed to be active. Files for new staff hired since the last annual compliance inspection were reviewed. I verified completion of ITS-SIDS and First Aid/CPR for any that expired between these two inspections. A fire drill was last conducted 7/21/23. The last shelter-in-place drill was conducted 6/15/23. Outdoor inspections were observed completed monthly with the most recent being 8/3/23. All required postings were observed. There were 2 emergency medications observed stored in a locked cabinet in the reception area. Both medications had current permissions and met all requirements. Today I observed 1 violation regarding childcare requirements Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection completed in the last year was not able to be observed. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed by August 31, 2023 stating that all violations have been corrected. The letter can be emailed to scott.moore@dhhs.nc.gov or mailed to: Scott Moore 5 Seawell Ct Durham, NC 27703 If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by August 31, 2023, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases the timeline may be extended. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during today's visit may negatively impact your compliance score. TEHCNICAL ASSISTANCE Rated License permit renewals have resumed. Your operation falls under cohort 3 in which your planning years began July 1, 2025 and goes through June 30, 2026. Your implementation year will be July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Please use the time during your planning year to upload education documents to WORKS and utilize NCRLAP resources to ensure you are prepared for assessment. If you have any questions or concerns I can be reached at scott.moore@dhhs.nc.gov or 984-389-7839. 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: KIDDIE ACADEMY OF CARY Facility ID: 92003831 Consultant: SCOTT MOORE Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/21/2023 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 8/21/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 10:20 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to conduct a routine unannounced inspection. Today's visit was conducted with Lasheeka Prokop, Administrator. When I first arrived I was greeted by Melody Holmes who informed me the Administrator was out at an appointment. The Administrator arrived during my inspection. Children were observed participating in routine activities in their rooms and playing outside. A partial assessment of applicable childcare requirements was conducted. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 2/21/23. The last sanitation inspection was completed 3/20/23. The last fire inspection was completed 3/25/22. The LLC for the operation was observed to be active. Files for new staff hired since the last annual compliance inspection were reviewed. I verified completion of ITS-SIDS and First Aid/CPR for any that expired between these two inspections. A fire drill was last conducted 7/21/23. The last shelter-in-place drill was conducted 6/15/23. Outdoor inspections were observed completed monthly with the most recent being 8/3/23. All required postings were observed. There were 2 emergency medications observed stored in a locked cabinet in the reception area. Both medications had current permissions and met all requirements. Today I observed 1 violation regarding childcare requirements Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. A fire inspection completed in the last year was not able to be observed. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) The violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed by August 31, 2023 stating that all violations have been corrected. The letter can be emailed to scott.moore@dhhs.nc.gov or mailed to: Scott Moore 5 Seawell Ct Durham, NC 27703 If you state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by August 31, 2023, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections. In some cases the timeline may be extended. You are required to always maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations. NC GS 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history score of at least 75% for the past eighteen months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action. Violations cited during today's visit may negatively impact your compliance score. TEHCNICAL ASSISTANCE Rated License permit renewals have resumed. Your operation falls under cohort 3 in which your planning years began July 1, 2025 and goes through June 30, 2026. Your implementation year will be July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Please use the time during your planning year to upload education documents to WORKS and utilize NCRLAP resources to ensure you are prepared for assessment. If you have any questions or concerns I can be reached at scott.moore@dhhs.nc.gov or 984-389-7839. 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