Alliance Center FOR Education AT Oaklawn

10A NCAC 09 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/18/2026 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 3/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 267 Time In: 09:33 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit and to complete a rated license assessment. The facility was currently operating with a Five Star Rated License issued on January 11, 2025. The facility had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 85% prior to today’s visit. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and the May 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Amanda Porter, Director, and I explained the purpose of my visit. I completed the walk through alone while Ms. Porter attended an online meeting. Classrooms met requirements. Materials were observed in good repair and plentiful. Evidence of the curriculum being implemented was observed throughout and large group time activities corresponded to posted lesson plans. All required information was posted in classrooms. Arrival and departure times were documented as required. Teachers were observed, engaged with children and provided a nurturing environment. Teachers asked open-ended questions to extend learning and participated in imaginary play with children. Screen time logs were documented as required. Space 4 for children enrolled in Early Head Start (EHS) were observed participating in free choice play and large motor movement activities. Preschool aged children were observed participating in large group time and free choice play/activities. Emergency medications were monitored and met requirements. Hazardous products were observed properly stored. Adequate supervision was observed. The facility followed highest voluntary enhanced ratios. Staff/child ratios met requirements. Menus were posted and current. The playgrounds were monitored. Transportation requirements were monitored. The bus used to transport children was not onsite. All buses used by Alliance Center for Education sites were parked at the Stephanie Jennings site. The transportation notebook was monitored. A sampling of child files were reviewed. The staff and training worksheet was completed by Ms. Porter. All staff had current CPR/First Aid training and each had a current CBC qualification. I reviewed one (1) file of an employee who was employed over 12 months. No new staff have been hired since the last visit. The ABCMS roster was reviewed and was confirmed current. Fire drills were documented as required. Shelter-in-place/lockdown drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The posted emergency medical care plan was reviewed. The last sanitation inspection was completed 2/18/26 and received a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was completed 10/9/25. The EPR plan was updated on 8/28/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/18/26 and Alliance Center for Education, Inc was listed as current- active. The email listed in Regulatory was updated today to reflect Ms. Porter’s email address. Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Ceiling tiles in Space 4 were water stained. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Broken plastic linking toys were observed on the EHS playground. .0601(d) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. One (1) child who was routinely transported did not have a picture attached to his emergency medical care information. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. One (1) child who was routinely transported to and from the facility did not have a permission to transport on file. .1003(i)(j) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The signed discipline policy for four (4) children did not list the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) employee, C.G., had two (2) health and safety trainings older than five years and one (1) employee, Y.W., had six (6) trainings older than five years. .1103(b) Corrective Action: 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 Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. The compliance letter 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. Rated License Pathway 3 Accreditation and Head Start Information: The facility has chosen Pathway 3. The facility is designated North Carolina Head Start Grantee site verified by the DCDEE. The facility will follow the Head Start Staff/Child Ratios. The Application for Assessment for a Rated License, Request to Use Accreditation and Head Start Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License, Staff/Child Ratios forms, and the Quality Initiatives Recognition Form were emailed to Ms. Elisha Wilson, Program Director of ECE, today. After all violations cited during today’s visit have been corrected the packet to process the new Five Star permit using Pathway 3 Accreditation and Head Start will be submitted for supervisory review. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - CBC qualification letters can be renewed up to 6 months prior to the expiration date. Two employees’ letters will expire in 2026. Y.W.’s letter expires 4/15/26 and D.C’s letter expires 7/5/26. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with any questions at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. You may also contact Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant, at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. 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: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/18/2026 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 3/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 267 Time In: 09:33 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp w/Rated Lic Assess Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit and to complete a rated license assessment. The facility was currently operating with a Five Star Rated License issued on January 11, 2025. The facility had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 85% prior to today’s visit. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and the May 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Amanda Porter, Director, and I explained the purpose of my visit. I completed the walk through alone while Ms. Porter attended an online meeting. Classrooms met requirements. Materials were observed in good repair and plentiful. Evidence of the curriculum being implemented was observed throughout and large group time activities corresponded to posted lesson plans. All required information was posted in classrooms. Arrival and departure times were documented as required. Teachers were observed, engaged with children and provided a nurturing environment. Teachers asked open-ended questions to extend learning and participated in imaginary play with children. Screen time logs were documented as required. Space 4 for children enrolled in Early Head Start (EHS) were observed participating in free choice play and large motor movement activities. Preschool aged children were observed participating in large group time and free choice play/activities. Emergency medications were monitored and met requirements. Hazardous products were observed properly stored. Adequate supervision was observed. The facility followed highest voluntary enhanced ratios. Staff/child ratios met requirements. Menus were posted and current. The playgrounds were monitored. Transportation requirements were monitored. The bus used to transport children was not onsite. All buses used by Alliance Center for Education sites were parked at the Stephanie Jennings site. The transportation notebook was monitored. A sampling of child files were reviewed. The staff and training worksheet was completed by Ms. Porter. All staff had current CPR/First Aid training and each had a current CBC qualification. I reviewed one (1) file of an employee who was employed over 12 months. No new staff have been hired since the last visit. The ABCMS roster was reviewed and was confirmed current. Fire drills were documented as required. Shelter-in-place/lockdown drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The posted emergency medical care plan was reviewed. The last sanitation inspection was completed 2/18/26 and received a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was completed 10/9/25. The EPR plan was updated on 8/28/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/18/26 and Alliance Center for Education, Inc was listed as current- active. The email listed in Regulatory was updated today to reflect Ms. Porter’s email address. Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Ceiling tiles in Space 4 were water stained. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Broken plastic linking toys were observed on the EHS playground. .0601(d) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. One (1) child who was routinely transported did not have a picture attached to his emergency medical care information. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. One (1) child who was routinely transported to and from the facility did not have a permission to transport on file. .1003(i)(j) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The signed discipline policy for four (4) children did not list the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One (1) employee, C.G., had two (2) health and safety trainings older than five years and one (1) employee, Y.W., had six (6) trainings older than five years. .1103(b) Corrective Action: 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 Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. The compliance letter 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. Rated License Pathway 3 Accreditation and Head Start Information: The facility has chosen Pathway 3. The facility is designated North Carolina Head Start Grantee site verified by the DCDEE. The facility will follow the Head Start Staff/Child Ratios. The Application for Assessment for a Rated License, Request to Use Accreditation and Head Start Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License, Staff/Child Ratios forms, and the Quality Initiatives Recognition Form were emailed to Ms. Elisha Wilson, Program Director of ECE, today. After all violations cited during today’s visit have been corrected the packet to process the new Five Star permit using Pathway 3 Accreditation and Head Start will be submitted for supervisory review. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - CBC qualification letters can be renewed up to 6 months prior to the expiration date. Two employees’ letters will expire in 2026. Y.W.’s letter expires 4/15/26 and D.C’s letter expires 7/5/26. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with any questions at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. You may also contact Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant, at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/21/2025 Number Present: 0 Completed Date: 8/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 0 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM 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 the facility for all applicable child care requirements during the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a Five Star License issued on January 11, 2021 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 85% prior to today’s visit. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and May 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Amanda Porter, Director, and I explained the purpose of the visit. She stated today was Open House for Early Head Start (EHS), Meck Pre-K and Head Start (HS) and that children were not onsite. She stated EHS closed 8/4/22 and would begin again Monday, 8/25/25. She stated staggered entry for Meck Pre-K and HS would begin Monday, 8/25/25 as well. I stated I would monitor staff files and program records today and conduct another unannounced visit to monitor classrooms, staff interactions, playgrounds, child files, medications, and transportation requirements. A current menu was posted for next week and September 2025. The emergency medical care plan was current. Playground inspections were completed as required. Fire and emergency drills were documented and completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 3/4/25 and received a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on 12/18/24. The facility was current and active with the Secretary of State. I changed the email contact and phone number in Regulatory after reviewing the information with Ms. Porter. I monitored one (1) veteran staff file and two (2) new staff files. One (1) “new” staff member transferred from another Alliance location and would begin working at this location on 8/18/25. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child's emergency medication was stored in the director's locked office. Metal posts securing the plastic barrier around the preschool playground were not flush with the barrier posing a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. Litter was observed in the sensory/sand table on the EHS playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. The metal cabinet in Space 3 did not lock and room sanitizer spray and a cleaning product that had multiple safety warnings were store inside. .2820(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff's First Aid training expired in March 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. Two (2) staff's CPR training expired in March 2024. .1102(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport on file did not include where the child was transported, expected time of departure and arrival, or the transportation provider. .1003(i)(j) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. Six (6) children did not have the date of enrollment completed on the signed discipline statement. .1804(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Two (2) staff did have health and safety training certificates on file for review. .1102(a) Corrective Action: 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 Thursday, September 4, 2025, 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. Email the information to: jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. The emailed compliance letter 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. Technical Assistance/General Discussions: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Invitations for the meetings will be forthcoming. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/21/2025 Number Present: 0 Completed Date: 8/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 0 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM 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 the facility for all applicable child care requirements during the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a Five Star License issued on January 11, 2021 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 85% prior to today’s visit. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and May 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Amanda Porter, Director, and I explained the purpose of the visit. She stated today was Open House for Early Head Start (EHS), Meck Pre-K and Head Start (HS) and that children were not onsite. She stated EHS closed 8/4/22 and would begin again Monday, 8/25/25. She stated staggered entry for Meck Pre-K and HS would begin Monday, 8/25/25 as well. I stated I would monitor staff files and program records today and conduct another unannounced visit to monitor classrooms, staff interactions, playgrounds, child files, medications, and transportation requirements. A current menu was posted for next week and September 2025. The emergency medical care plan was current. Playground inspections were completed as required. Fire and emergency drills were documented and completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was completed on 3/4/25 and received a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on 12/18/24. The facility was current and active with the Secretary of State. I changed the email contact and phone number in Regulatory after reviewing the information with Ms. Porter. I monitored one (1) veteran staff file and two (2) new staff files. One (1) “new” staff member transferred from another Alliance location and would begin working at this location on 8/18/25. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child's emergency medication was stored in the director's locked office. Metal posts securing the plastic barrier around the preschool playground were not flush with the barrier posing a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. Litter was observed in the sensory/sand table on the EHS playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. The metal cabinet in Space 3 did not lock and room sanitizer spray and a cleaning product that had multiple safety warnings were store inside. .2820(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two (2) staff's First Aid training expired in March 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. Two (2) staff's CPR training expired in March 2024. .1102(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport on file did not include where the child was transported, expected time of departure and arrival, or the transportation provider. .1003(i)(j) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. Six (6) children did not have the date of enrollment completed on the signed discipline statement. .1804(b) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Two (2) staff did have health and safety training certificates on file for review. .1102(a) Corrective Action: 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 Thursday, September 4, 2025, 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. Email the information to: jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. The emailed compliance letter 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. Technical Assistance/General Discussions: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Invitations for the meetings will be forthcoming. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/27/2024 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 8/27/2024 Age: From 1 To 2 Total Minutes: 283 Time In: 09:47 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a Five Star License issued on January 11, 2021 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 91% prior to today’s visit. The March 2024 Center Item Number Listing and May 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Yolanda Willis, Director, and I explained the purpose of the visit. She stated Meck Pre-K and Head Start children were not onsite and would start school on September 3, 2024. She stated she was getting ready to begin Open House. I asked if Early Head Start (EH) children were present and she stated yes. I explained that I would monitor a sampling of EH child files, EH classroom, licensed indoor and outdoor space, program records, and staff files. I stated a return visit would be made in the near future to monitor preschool classrooms. Ms. Willis stated the facility would transport children within a five (5) radius of the center and all transportation information was kept on the bus. The bus was not onsite for monitoring. She stated the buses were parked at another Alliance location. She stated she would maintain a transportation notebook onsite once children began school. I observed children ages 18 months – 2 years of age in Space 4 participating in free choice activities. The teacher stated today was the second day of school for this classroom. She stated all children were potty training. The potty training chart was emailed to the facility today to post inside the bathroom used for changing pull-ups. The activity plan was not completed for this week and the staff child ratio sheet was not posted inside the classroom. Both were corrected during the visit. We discussed that the facility operates with 7 points in program and what that meant for ratio. The classroom was organized and materials were observed plentiful and in good repair. Arrival times were documented as required. Playgrounds were monitored. Ms. Willis stated the playgrounds were opened to the public after hours and on weekends. A playground check should be completed every day prior to children going outside. EH had not been outside to play today. I observed trash inside the sand box. The trash was removed. I also observed two (2) broken slats on top of the toy shed. The slats had exposed screws. Each was removed today. The preschool playground was observed meeting requirements. Ms. Willis stated food was prepared at another site and delivered to the facility each day. She stated milk was stored onsite and served to children. I observed 1% milk in the cooler today. I explained the requirement that children 12-24 months were required to be served whole milk. A current menu was posted. The last sanitation inspection was completed on24 a 3/18/24 and received a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on 1/17/24. Ms. Willis stated the facility did not serve children after 7/31/24. I monitored fire drills and shelter-in-place and lockdown drills. The last fire drill was documented on 7/6/24. The date fell on a Saturday. Ms. Willis stated the date was entered in error and that the correct date was 7/16/24. I explained the importance of accuracy when documenting and signing forms. The last shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was documented in March 2024. Another drill was due to be completed June 2024. Playground inspections were completed. The facility was current and active with the Secretary of State. Three (3) staff members transferred from another Alliance center and their files were monitored today. One (1) employee was hired May 2023 and went on medical leave in April 2024. I pro-rated her one (1) year date. She had 54 days from her time of leave to complete health and safety trainings. The due date was June 20, 2024. Health and safety trainings were not available for review. The CPR/First Aid training on file was a training certificate and not verifiable through an approved agency. Training should be taken ASAP. I monitored the completed staff/training for staff who were employed longer than 12 months. Each met requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Staff/child ratio information was not posted in Space 4. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The lesson plan in Space 3 was not completed and posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Two (2) broken slats with exposed screws were on top of the toy shed on the toddler playground. .0601(c) 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 (1) employee had First Aid training on file from an unapproved agency. .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 (1) employee had a CPR certificate on file from an unapproved agency. .1102(d) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The signed discipline policy for two (2) children did not include the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last documented shelter-in-place drill or lockdown drill was March 2024. Another drill should have occured in June 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) employee did not have documentation of completing health and safety trainings within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The child care provider is expected to maintain all applicable child care requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter that includes the violation item number and an explanation of how each of today’s violations were corrected. Corrections must be received by me on or before Tuesday, September 10, 2024 to the email address listed below or the provider may mail corrections to me at P.O. Box 1967, Huntersville, NC 28078 understanding the letter of compliance should be delivered not submitted by the due date. Another visit will be made in the near future to verify compliance with violations. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. General Comments: - Another unannounced visit will be made in the near future to monitor preschool classrooms, transportation, and EPR plan requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(f) General Nutrition Requirements (f) The child care provider shall serve only the following beverages: (1) breast milk, as specified in Paragraph (k) of this Rule; (2) formula; (3) water; (4) unflavored whole milk, for children ages 12-23 months; (5) unflavored skim or lowfat milk for children 24 months through five years; (6) unflavored skim milk, unflavored low-fat milk, or flavored skim milk for children six years and older; or (7) 100 percent fruit juice, limited to 6 ounces per day, for all ages. - The EPR plan should be updated and reviewed in the risk management portal annually. The review sign-off is on page 28 of the plan. Make sure “publish plan” is clicked before leaving the document. You can print page 28 and the cover page that reflects the current date and add to the plan if no other changes are made. If changes are made be sure to print those changes and add to the plan. Staff should be trained on the changes. During the visit the DCDEE Regulatory system was not working. I reviewed the following violations with Ms. Willis: posted lesson plans, posted staff/child ratio sheet, CPR/First Aid training, health and safety trainings, discipline policy missing required information, lockdown & shelter-in-place drills, and broken/sharp materials on toddler playground. Ms. Willis signed the Word document. The visit will be entered into Regulatory upon return to the office. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/27/2024 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 8/27/2024 Age: From 1 To 2 Total Minutes: 283 Time In: 09:47 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a Five Star License issued on January 11, 2021 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 91% prior to today’s visit. The March 2024 Center Item Number Listing and May 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Yolanda Willis, Director, and I explained the purpose of the visit. She stated Meck Pre-K and Head Start children were not onsite and would start school on September 3, 2024. She stated she was getting ready to begin Open House. I asked if Early Head Start (EH) children were present and she stated yes. I explained that I would monitor a sampling of EH child files, EH classroom, licensed indoor and outdoor space, program records, and staff files. I stated a return visit would be made in the near future to monitor preschool classrooms. Ms. Willis stated the facility would transport children within a five (5) radius of the center and all transportation information was kept on the bus. The bus was not onsite for monitoring. She stated the buses were parked at another Alliance location. She stated she would maintain a transportation notebook onsite once children began school. I observed children ages 18 months – 2 years of age in Space 4 participating in free choice activities. The teacher stated today was the second day of school for this classroom. She stated all children were potty training. The potty training chart was emailed to the facility today to post inside the bathroom used for changing pull-ups. The activity plan was not completed for this week and the staff child ratio sheet was not posted inside the classroom. Both were corrected during the visit. We discussed that the facility operates with 7 points in program and what that meant for ratio. The classroom was organized and materials were observed plentiful and in good repair. Arrival times were documented as required. Playgrounds were monitored. Ms. Willis stated the playgrounds were opened to the public after hours and on weekends. A playground check should be completed every day prior to children going outside. EH had not been outside to play today. I observed trash inside the sand box. The trash was removed. I also observed two (2) broken slats on top of the toy shed. The slats had exposed screws. Each was removed today. The preschool playground was observed meeting requirements. Ms. Willis stated food was prepared at another site and delivered to the facility each day. She stated milk was stored onsite and served to children. I observed 1% milk in the cooler today. I explained the requirement that children 12-24 months were required to be served whole milk. A current menu was posted. The last sanitation inspection was completed on24 a 3/18/24 and received a superior rating. The last fire inspection was completed on 1/17/24. Ms. Willis stated the facility did not serve children after 7/31/24. I monitored fire drills and shelter-in-place and lockdown drills. The last fire drill was documented on 7/6/24. The date fell on a Saturday. Ms. Willis stated the date was entered in error and that the correct date was 7/16/24. I explained the importance of accuracy when documenting and signing forms. The last shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was documented in March 2024. Another drill was due to be completed June 2024. Playground inspections were completed. The facility was current and active with the Secretary of State. Three (3) staff members transferred from another Alliance center and their files were monitored today. One (1) employee was hired May 2023 and went on medical leave in April 2024. I pro-rated her one (1) year date. She had 54 days from her time of leave to complete health and safety trainings. The due date was June 20, 2024. Health and safety trainings were not available for review. The CPR/First Aid training on file was a training certificate and not verifiable through an approved agency. Training should be taken ASAP. I monitored the completed staff/training for staff who were employed longer than 12 months. Each met requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Staff/child ratio information was not posted in Space 4. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The lesson plan in Space 3 was not completed and posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Two (2) broken slats with exposed screws were on top of the toy shed on the toddler playground. .0601(c) 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 (1) employee had First Aid training on file from an unapproved agency. .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 (1) employee had a CPR certificate on file from an unapproved agency. .1102(d) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The signed discipline policy for two (2) children did not include the date of enrollment. .1804(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last documented shelter-in-place drill or lockdown drill was March 2024. Another drill should have occured in June 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One (1) employee did not have documentation of completing health and safety trainings within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The child care provider is expected to maintain all applicable child care requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter that includes the violation item number and an explanation of how each of today’s violations were corrected. Corrections must be received by me on or before Tuesday, September 10, 2024 to the email address listed below or the provider may mail corrections to me at P.O. Box 1967, Huntersville, NC 28078 understanding the letter of compliance should be delivered not submitted by the due date. Another visit will be made in the near future to verify compliance with violations. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. General Comments: - Another unannounced visit will be made in the near future to monitor preschool classrooms, transportation, and EPR plan requirements. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(f) General Nutrition Requirements (f) The child care provider shall serve only the following beverages: (1) breast milk, as specified in Paragraph (k) of this Rule; (2) formula; (3) water; (4) unflavored whole milk, for children ages 12-23 months; (5) unflavored skim or lowfat milk for children 24 months through five years; (6) unflavored skim milk, unflavored low-fat milk, or flavored skim milk for children six years and older; or (7) 100 percent fruit juice, limited to 6 ounces per day, for all ages. - The EPR plan should be updated and reviewed in the risk management portal annually. The review sign-off is on page 28 of the plan. Make sure “publish plan” is clicked before leaving the document. You can print page 28 and the cover page that reflects the current date and add to the plan if no other changes are made. If changes are made be sure to print those changes and add to the plan. Staff should be trained on the changes. During the visit the DCDEE Regulatory system was not working. I reviewed the following violations with Ms. Willis: posted lesson plans, posted staff/child ratio sheet, CPR/First Aid training, health and safety trainings, discipline policy missing required information, lockdown & shelter-in-place drills, and broken/sharp materials on toddler playground. Ms. Willis signed the Word document. The visit will be entered into Regulatory upon return to the office. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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 .1002 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/26/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 4/26/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a routine unannounced visit. The facility currently operated with a Five Star Rated License issued January 11, 2021 and earned 7 points in the staff education component, 7 points in the program component meeting highest voluntary enhanced ratio requirements minus 1, and 1 point in the quality component for having approved enhanced policies, a staff benefits package, and an infrastructure of parent involvement. The facility had an eighteen month compliance history of 88% prior to today’s visit. The following was monitored using the March 2024 Master Center Item Number Listing: supervision, staff/child ratios, CBC qualification, CPR, First Aid, special training, emergency medical care plan, administration of medication, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, general safety, discipline, adequate/approved space, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Yolanda Willis, Director, and I introduced myself and explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Willis accompanied me on the walk through. One (1) Meck Pre-K classroom (Space 3) was preparing to leave for a field trip. I began monitoring in Space 3. The location and time of departure and arrival for the field trip was posted outside the classroom. A list of children attending the field was left at the facility. I reviewed the transportation notebook and observed emergency information for each child and seven (7) children did not have an identifying picture attached to emergency information. The teacher added the pictures before leaving the trip. I observed children boarding the bus. The bus was monitored while children boarded. I observed the rear left tire with insufficient tread depth and the front right tire had insufficient tread depth. The children were transported on Bus #63. Ms. Willis called and spoke with Linda Love, Alliance Center for Education Transportation Manager, during the visit. Ms. Love stated bus was inspected on 3/8/24 and passed inspection with no mention of tires needing to be replaced. The inspection report was emailed to Ms. Willis during the visit and was completed by Mr. Marty Lineberger. Pictures were taken of the tires that were observed with insufficient tread. The transportation permission forms for the field trip were reviewed. The facility indicated where, when, and times of the field trip on the top of the permission form and parents signed and returned the bottom portion. The signed portion did not indicate the date signed. We discussed requiring parents to return the full permission form that indicated time, date, place of field trip and adding a place to for the date next to parent’s signatures. Children were observed participating in free choice activities and large group teacher directed activities. Arrival times were documented as required. Therapists worked with children in unlicensed space located in rooms that were a part of the Ivory Baker Recreation Center adjacent to Oaklawn. I reviewed off-premise permissions for the children observed working with therapists. The off-premise permissions did not indicate what space would be used for therapy. Forms indicated outdoor unlicensed space used for fire drills and community walks. I explained the rooms used in the unlicensed building should be indicated on the form. The kitchen door was observed opened today. I observed aerosol cans in unlocked cabinets. The door was closed during the visit. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child’s permission form expired 3/11/24 however the child’s last day on campus was 3/8/24 due to illness and Ms. Willis reported today the child has not returned. I monitored three (3) substitute staff files. Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. The kitchen door was observed opened today. I observed aerosol cans in unlocked cabinets. .2820(b) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. . The rear left tire was observed with insufficient tread depth and the front right tire had insufficient tread depth on bus #63. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. The off-premise permissions did not indicate what spaces would be used for therapy in the Ivory Baker Recreation Center adjacent to Oaklawn. Forms indicated outdoor unlicensed space used for fire drills and community walks. .1005(b)(4) Corrective Action: 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 Friday, May 3, 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 considered 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 may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 Jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Resuming Rated License Assessment: Legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level until their reassessment year and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. Your facility is assigned to Cohort 2. Your preparation year begins 7/1/24 and runs through 6/30/25. I will reach out to you with additional information to help prepare for the reassessment. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - I recommend conducting a compliance walk through of classrooms used in the Ivory Baker Recreation Center to ensure no hazardous products were stored in the classrooms and all electrical outlet safety plugs were in place as the building was a shared space. - For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES - (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/26/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 4/26/2024 Age: From 2 To 5 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a routine unannounced visit. The facility currently operated with a Five Star Rated License issued January 11, 2021 and earned 7 points in the staff education component, 7 points in the program component meeting highest voluntary enhanced ratio requirements minus 1, and 1 point in the quality component for having approved enhanced policies, a staff benefits package, and an infrastructure of parent involvement. The facility had an eighteen month compliance history of 88% prior to today’s visit. The following was monitored using the March 2024 Master Center Item Number Listing: supervision, staff/child ratios, CBC qualification, CPR, First Aid, special training, emergency medical care plan, administration of medication, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, general safety, discipline, adequate/approved space, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Yolanda Willis, Director, and I introduced myself and explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Willis accompanied me on the walk through. One (1) Meck Pre-K classroom (Space 3) was preparing to leave for a field trip. I began monitoring in Space 3. The location and time of departure and arrival for the field trip was posted outside the classroom. A list of children attending the field was left at the facility. I reviewed the transportation notebook and observed emergency information for each child and seven (7) children did not have an identifying picture attached to emergency information. The teacher added the pictures before leaving the trip. I observed children boarding the bus. The bus was monitored while children boarded. I observed the rear left tire with insufficient tread depth and the front right tire had insufficient tread depth. The children were transported on Bus #63. Ms. Willis called and spoke with Linda Love, Alliance Center for Education Transportation Manager, during the visit. Ms. Love stated bus was inspected on 3/8/24 and passed inspection with no mention of tires needing to be replaced. The inspection report was emailed to Ms. Willis during the visit and was completed by Mr. Marty Lineberger. Pictures were taken of the tires that were observed with insufficient tread. The transportation permission forms for the field trip were reviewed. The facility indicated where, when, and times of the field trip on the top of the permission form and parents signed and returned the bottom portion. The signed portion did not indicate the date signed. We discussed requiring parents to return the full permission form that indicated time, date, place of field trip and adding a place to for the date next to parent’s signatures. Children were observed participating in free choice activities and large group teacher directed activities. Arrival times were documented as required. Therapists worked with children in unlicensed space located in rooms that were a part of the Ivory Baker Recreation Center adjacent to Oaklawn. I reviewed off-premise permissions for the children observed working with therapists. The off-premise permissions did not indicate what space would be used for therapy. Forms indicated outdoor unlicensed space used for fire drills and community walks. I explained the rooms used in the unlicensed building should be indicated on the form. The kitchen door was observed opened today. I observed aerosol cans in unlocked cabinets. The door was closed during the visit. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child’s permission form expired 3/11/24 however the child’s last day on campus was 3/8/24 due to illness and Ms. Willis reported today the child has not returned. I monitored three (3) substitute staff files. Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. The kitchen door was observed opened today. I observed aerosol cans in unlocked cabinets. .2820(b) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. . The rear left tire was observed with insufficient tread depth and the front right tire had insufficient tread depth on bus #63. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. The off-premise permissions did not indicate what spaces would be used for therapy in the Ivory Baker Recreation Center adjacent to Oaklawn. Forms indicated outdoor unlicensed space used for fire drills and community walks. .1005(b)(4) Corrective Action: 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 Friday, May 3, 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 considered 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 may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 Jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Resuming Rated License Assessment: Legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level until their reassessment year and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. Your facility is assigned to Cohort 2. Your preparation year begins 7/1/24 and runs through 6/30/25. I will reach out to you with additional information to help prepare for the reassessment. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - I recommend conducting a compliance walk through of classrooms used in the Ivory Baker Recreation Center to ensure no hazardous products were stored in the classrooms and all electrical outlet safety plugs were in place as the building was a shared space. - For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES - (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2023 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/5/2023 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to conduct an Annual Compliance/Unannounced visit to monitor child care requirements. The facility currently holds a Five Star License issued January 11, 2021, and had a compliance history score of 92% prior to today’s visit. The facility’s last Annual Compliance Visit was September 8, 2022. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers was provided to the director after the visit. I was greeted by Director, Yolanda Willis, and I explained the purpose of the visit. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor space was completed with Ms. Willis. All four (4) classrooms were open during the visit. In each space, a current menu, current activity plan, and a daily schedule were posted. Space 1., a classroom for children enrolled in Head Start, I observed the children a group activity/circle time with the teachers. I observed the teachers using nurturing tones, when the teachers spoke with the children; adequate supervision was provided. In Space 2., a Head Start Classroom, was open and I observed the children having supervised outdoor play. In Space 3., a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, I observed the children having Choice Time, as noted on the classroom schedule. I observed labeled cots for napping/rest time, and I observed Screen-time Logs posted. In Space 4., an Early Head Start Classroom, I observed the children independent play time, and adequate supervision and nurturing tones were observed. The Head Start program uses an approved curriculum as required, and Teaching Strategies. The two (2) Meck. Pre-K classrooms are using Creative Curriculum. The following program requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter -in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan. Compliance was met for the posted items. The Playground Inspections were reviewed and met compliance. A violation was cited for outlet cover in Space 1. Three (3) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the children's files met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. There are three (3) new staff. Ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed, and the new staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a staff member's ongoing training documentation log. There are with children with medications (emergency medication), and the medication and medication forms met compliance. The outdoor area and equipment were clean and found in good repair. There were outdoor play materials to support gross motor skills and outdoor play. The center is not providing transportation at this time, because the transportation department is in the process of setting up the transportation routes. The sanitation inspection was completed January 26, 2023, with a “Superior” classification and four (4) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted January 11, 2023. Two (2) violations were cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child; Space 1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current. Staff (G.M.) did not have documentation log of ongoing training. 10A NCAC 09 .1106(a) Corrective Action The child care provider is expected to maintain all applicable child care requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected each of today’s violations and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance to me on or before Monday, September 18, 2023 to Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov, or to the address listed below: Deanna Matthews P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053-0756 Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -House Bill 103: Effective July 11, 2022, individuals have five (5) years to renew their criminal record check instead of every three (3) years. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. -NCDHHS Children’s Environmental Health has conducted a series of virtual trainings on the recently re-adopted Child Care Sanitation Rules, effective July 1, 2023. The rules have been approved but have not yet been updated in the Administrative Code. Once updated, notification will be sent out via listserv. -The North Carolina Child Care Commission and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education are collaborating to modernize NC’s child care quality rating and improvement system (QRIS), commonly known as the Star Rated License. We are developing a plan that will be reviewed by the legislature in Spring 2024. During the next few months, we are collecting information from parents, teachers, administrators, operators, and partners to consider in the plan. -If you are unable to attend these sessions, you may also complete an online survey or write to DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov. -Stabilization Grant Funds paid for Quarters 1-6 must be spent by September 30, 2023. -Meck. Pre-K classrooms continue to offer naps/rest time with cots to children. Continue to offer an activity to child(ren) that do not wish to nap. -Add to Permission to Transport form, a statement giving authorization to transport child during an evacuation; list evacuation sites on the permission form. -As a reminder, children's medical or health assessment record should be on file before enrollment within 30 days after admission. -Refer to Child Care Rule .0803(6)(a-i) for permission to administer for chronic health conditions: A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six (6) months to administer prescription or over-the counter mediation to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: the child's name, the subject medical condition or allergic reactions, the names of the authorized over-the counter medications, the criteria for the administration of the medication, the amount and frequency of the dosages, the manner in which the medication shall be administered, the signature of the parent, the date the authorization was signed by the parent, and the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than six (6) months. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 2 for the Star Rated License Assessment. Prep Year: 7/1/24- 6/30/25, Reassessment Year: 7/1/25-6/30/26. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. -Return PreService Administrator Form. -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. -The new director, Ms. Willis, is in the process of updating the EPR Plan. Please contact Child Care Consultant, Deanna Matthews, at Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov, or 704-962-7854, for questions or concerns, regarding today's visit. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1106 · Violation

Name of Operation: ALLIANCE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AT OAKLAWN Facility ID: 60002805 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/5/2023 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/5/2023 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to conduct an Annual Compliance/Unannounced visit to monitor child care requirements. The facility currently holds a Five Star License issued January 11, 2021, and had a compliance history score of 92% prior to today’s visit. The facility’s last Annual Compliance Visit was September 8, 2022. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers was provided to the director after the visit. I was greeted by Director, Yolanda Willis, and I explained the purpose of the visit. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor space was completed with Ms. Willis. All four (4) classrooms were open during the visit. In each space, a current menu, current activity plan, and a daily schedule were posted. Space 1., a classroom for children enrolled in Head Start, I observed the children a group activity/circle time with the teachers. I observed the teachers using nurturing tones, when the teachers spoke with the children; adequate supervision was provided. In Space 2., a Head Start Classroom, was open and I observed the children having supervised outdoor play. In Space 3., a Meck. Pre-K Classroom, I observed the children having Choice Time, as noted on the classroom schedule. I observed labeled cots for napping/rest time, and I observed Screen-time Logs posted. In Space 4., an Early Head Start Classroom, I observed the children independent play time, and adequate supervision and nurturing tones were observed. The Head Start program uses an approved curriculum as required, and Teaching Strategies. The two (2) Meck. Pre-K classrooms are using Creative Curriculum. The following program requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Summary of NC Law, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, Fire Drills/Shelter -in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan. Compliance was met for the posted items. The Playground Inspections were reviewed and met compliance. A violation was cited for outlet cover in Space 1. Three (3) children’s files were selected and reviewed, and the children's files met compliance. The staff and training worksheet was used to review staff files. There are three (3) new staff. Ten (10) percent of old staff files were reviewed, and the new staff files were reviewed. A violation was cited for a staff member's ongoing training documentation log. There are with children with medications (emergency medication), and the medication and medication forms met compliance. The outdoor area and equipment were clean and found in good repair. There were outdoor play materials to support gross motor skills and outdoor play. The center is not providing transportation at this time, because the transportation department is in the process of setting up the transportation routes. The sanitation inspection was completed January 26, 2023, with a “Superior” classification and four (4) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted January 11, 2023. Two (2) violations were cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child; Space 1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1054 Documentation of staff's on-going training was not on file and/or was not current. Staff (G.M.) did not have documentation log of ongoing training. 10A NCAC 09 .1106(a) Corrective Action The child care provider is expected to maintain all applicable child care requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected each of today’s violations and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance to me on or before Monday, September 18, 2023 to Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov, or to the address listed below: Deanna Matthews P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053-0756 Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -House Bill 103: Effective July 11, 2022, individuals have five (5) years to renew their criminal record check instead of every three (3) years. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. -NCDHHS Children’s Environmental Health has conducted a series of virtual trainings on the recently re-adopted Child Care Sanitation Rules, effective July 1, 2023. The rules have been approved but have not yet been updated in the Administrative Code. Once updated, notification will be sent out via listserv. -The North Carolina Child Care Commission and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development and Early Education are collaborating to modernize NC’s child care quality rating and improvement system (QRIS), commonly known as the Star Rated License. We are developing a plan that will be reviewed by the legislature in Spring 2024. During the next few months, we are collecting information from parents, teachers, administrators, operators, and partners to consider in the plan. -If you are unable to attend these sessions, you may also complete an online survey or write to DCDEE_QRIS@dhhs.nc.gov. -Stabilization Grant Funds paid for Quarters 1-6 must be spent by September 30, 2023. -Meck. Pre-K classrooms continue to offer naps/rest time with cots to children. Continue to offer an activity to child(ren) that do not wish to nap. -Add to Permission to Transport form, a statement giving authorization to transport child during an evacuation; list evacuation sites on the permission form. -As a reminder, children's medical or health assessment record should be on file before enrollment within 30 days after admission. -Refer to Child Care Rule .0803(6)(a-i) for permission to administer for chronic health conditions: A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six (6) months to administer prescription or over-the counter mediation to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: the child's name, the subject medical condition or allergic reactions, the names of the authorized over-the counter medications, the criteria for the administration of the medication, the amount and frequency of the dosages, the manner in which the medication shall be administered, the signature of the parent, the date the authorization was signed by the parent, and the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than six (6) months. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 2 for the Star Rated License Assessment. Prep Year: 7/1/24- 6/30/25, Reassessment Year: 7/1/25-6/30/26. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. -Return PreService Administrator Form. -Therapist who are not left alone with children are not required to have a DCDEE-CBC. -The new director, Ms. Willis, is in the process of updating the EPR Plan. Please contact Child Care Consultant, Deanna Matthews, at Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov, or 704-962-7854, for questions or concerns, regarding today's visit. 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