Ballancrest Academy

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/13/2025 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 8/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 12:45 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 your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. The facility operates with a Five Star Rated License with an effective date of August 30, 2024 Upon arrival I was greeted by Assistant Director, Z. Flowe. Ms. Flowe stated that the Director, R. McClain, was not site yet, but she would let her know I was present. A walk through of the facility was started with the Assistant Director. The Director arrived approximately fifteen minutes after my arrival and finished the walk through with me. Children were observed in both the indoor learning environment and supervision and staff/child ratios were found to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor and outdoor activities, group time and transitions. Staff members were observed leading group time, supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on August 12, 2025, and Ballancrest Academy of South Charlotte, LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed June 13, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was received on October 3, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on July 1, 2025, and the last fire drill was conducted on July 1, 2025. Playground safety checklists were also monitored and are occurring each month as required. Files for ten percent of children enrolled were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been no new staff hired since a routine unannounced visit was conducted on March 12, 2025. Files for all new staff and ten percent of existing staff files were monitored. The worksheets were used to verify existing staff were current with First Aid, CPR, criminal background checks, and ITS-SIDS training for infant staff. The following violations were observed today. 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. In space #1, paint was chipping from the walls in two areas of the classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 837 The EMC plan did not name the person responsible, and at least one alternate, for choosing and carrying out the plan of action to obtain appropriate medical care. The EMC plan did not have specific names identified on the plan. .0802(a)(1)(A-B); 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was not updated when changes occurred. .0607(e) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 27, 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 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: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: Pathway to the Stars- Webinars will be hosted August 18th at 1:00pm and August 20th at 6pm for centers and centers located in a residence. In September, Child Care Consultants will be hosting an in-person meeting to provide additional guidance on changes, the transition plan and timeline. Additional information regarding the webinars was in the August 11th Raise NC Newsletter. You will receive an email from me with information regarding the in-person meetings. I encourage you to utilize the North Carolina Rated License Project’s (NCRLAP) website for information, resources and training related to the Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale 3rd Edition and the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale- 3rd Edition at www.ncrlap.org. I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@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: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/12/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 3/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a Five Star Rated License with an effective date of August 30, 2024. The program’s compliance history before today’s visit was eighty-three percent. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on March 11, 2025, and Ballancrest Academy of South Charlotte, LLC was listed at current-active. The Director, R. McClain, assisted me with today’s. A walk-through of the program was conducted with the Director. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in free choice of indoor and outdoor activities, group time, transitions and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I received the Staff and Training Worksheets prior to today’s visit. The worksheets were reviewed to verify existing staff were current with criminal background checks, first aid, CPR and ITS-SIDS training. Seven new staff members have been hired since the annual compliance visit was conducted on August 21, 2024. New staff files were monitored. The last fire inspection was conducted on October 3, 2024. The sanitation inspection was conducted on December 10, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. A shelter-in-place drill was conducted on January 2, 2025 and the last fire drill was conducted on March 3, 2025. The following violations were cited. 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. In space #5, there were two aerosol cans of shaving cream in an unlocked upper cabinet and one aerosol can of shaving cream in an unlocked bottom cabinet. .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. One new staff member's First Aid training was not an approved course. .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 new staff member's CPR training was not an approved course. .1102(d) 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 violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 26, 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 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: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov Technical Assistance/General Information: Automated Background Check Management System (ABCMS)- We discussed the process of entering and linking staff information to the facility via the ABCMS. The Director is in the process and nine staff members have completed an application and added to the facility’s roster. The courses completed for First Aid/CPR training must be an approved course through an approved agency. A conversation was held with the Director regarding approved agencies. The Director stated that she was aware, however, the new staff member already had FA/CPR training that was completed through another facility before being hired so it was assumed the courses were approved. I encourage you to utilize the North Carolina Rated License Project’s (NCRLAP) website for information, resources and training related to the Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale 3rd Edition and the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale- 3rd Edition at www.ncrlap.org. I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@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 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/21/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 8/21/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 11:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. Prior to today's visit, the facility's 18 month compliance history was 94%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Rachel McClain, Owner/Administrator. You were able to accompany me on today's walkthrough. It was rest time in four of the classrooms today. Two cots in Space 1 and Space 4 were not at least 18 inches apart, staff moved them further apart during my observation. All children were observed sleeping on cots with clean linen. Staff were observed patty backs and posting items in the classroom, monitoring children as they slept. Material and equipment were found to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. Each classroom had a current activity plan posted. While in the infant room, two staff were present with six children in the room. One of the children present was one of the staff's own school age children who was present because her own care fell through today. The current license age range is 0-5, the child was nine years of age. She was observed seated in a rocking chair while the two infant staff were sitting on the floor with the five infants as they had tummy time. During the staff's break she took her daughter to her other parent for the remainder of the day. While in the infant room I reviewed the current feeding schedules and visual safe sleep documentation and found them meeting compliance. The current ITS/SIDS policy was also posted. Bottles were observed stored properly. All refrigerator thermometers read below 45 degrees. Medications were reviewed and found meeting compliance. All medications were observed stored properly. The outdoor environment was monitored and found meeting compliance. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Program records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The current license was observed posted. All information required to be posted was observed posted in the lobby and classrooms today. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3-22-24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted 5/2/24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You provided the current staff/training worksheet to review. All staff employed more than 1 year and were hired when the Change of ownership occurred have until 9/1/2024 to complete their required on-going trainings. One staff has not had her annual review, the last one completed was done in July 2023. You stated you are aware and have it scheduled to complete. You do not offer transportation. The following violations were observed during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. The age range for care, listed on the current license, is 0-5. Today, one staff's nine year old child was present because the child's regular care fell through. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. The posted staff/child ratio information posted in Space 1 and 4 were incorrect, they do not have the highest enhanced ratio box checked, which is what the facility is required to follow based on earning 7 points in Program Standards. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. I observed rest time today, cots were not placed at least 18 inches apart in Space 1 and Space 4. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. While in Space 2, I observed a plastic grocery bag hanging from a hook, less than 5 feet, in the children's rest room, storing a child's soiled clothing. Space 2 serves children 2 and 3 years of age. .0604(q) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff has not had an annual review since July 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Rachel McClain, Owner/administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before September 5, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Age Range in care: I reminded you the license age range is 0-5, therefor no children older than 5 should be in care at any time during operating hours. The staff that brought her own nine year old child today, was an emergency circumstance and you didn't realize it was an issue. I explained that in this situation it would be considered drop in care, she should have a file on site and she should have been grouped with the preschool 5 year olds while in care, instead of staying in the infant room with her mother. In the future, things to think about would be change the age range to up to 12 years of age, if you are going to continue to allow this option for staff children to attend in emergency situations. Make sure the a children's file is complete the 1st morning the child attends and place them in the group appropriate for their age and maintain staff/child ratio. Any child that is in care for any reason must have a file on site and count in staff/child ratio. Cot placement: I encourage each classroom have a tool to measure 18 inches to ensure requirements are met. You may need to move furniture during rest time to have at least 18 inches between cots. Plastic bag storage: I suggest not allowing plastic bag storage in classrooms serving children under 3 years of age. For soiled clothing a small container with a lid is proper storage and there is room on the shelves to store them or store the closed container in the child's cubby. If you continue to use plastic storage bags, ensure they are stored above 5 feet. Reminder: make sure any annual requirement is met by the day before last year's completion date to maintain compliance. Other: WORKS we looked up one staff's education, she received a return letter in September 2023. WORKS states they did not receive an official transcript. You showed me what was sent, which was an official transcript. I provided a contact number to call and follow their instructions if you are required to resubmit. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson (704)594-0039 andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-106 · Violation

Name of Operation: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/21/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 8/21/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 11:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. Prior to today's visit, the facility's 18 month compliance history was 94%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Rachel McClain, Owner/Administrator. You were able to accompany me on today's walkthrough. It was rest time in four of the classrooms today. Two cots in Space 1 and Space 4 were not at least 18 inches apart, staff moved them further apart during my observation. All children were observed sleeping on cots with clean linen. Staff were observed patty backs and posting items in the classroom, monitoring children as they slept. Material and equipment were found to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. Each classroom had a current activity plan posted. While in the infant room, two staff were present with six children in the room. One of the children present was one of the staff's own school age children who was present because her own care fell through today. The current license age range is 0-5, the child was nine years of age. She was observed seated in a rocking chair while the two infant staff were sitting on the floor with the five infants as they had tummy time. During the staff's break she took her daughter to her other parent for the remainder of the day. While in the infant room I reviewed the current feeding schedules and visual safe sleep documentation and found them meeting compliance. The current ITS/SIDS policy was also posted. Bottles were observed stored properly. All refrigerator thermometers read below 45 degrees. Medications were reviewed and found meeting compliance. All medications were observed stored properly. The outdoor environment was monitored and found meeting compliance. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Program records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The current license was observed posted. All information required to be posted was observed posted in the lobby and classrooms today. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3-22-24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted 5/2/24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You provided the current staff/training worksheet to review. All staff employed more than 1 year and were hired when the Change of ownership occurred have until 9/1/2024 to complete their required on-going trainings. One staff has not had her annual review, the last one completed was done in July 2023. You stated you are aware and have it scheduled to complete. You do not offer transportation. The following violations were observed during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. The age range for care, listed on the current license, is 0-5. Today, one staff's nine year old child was present because the child's regular care fell through. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. The posted staff/child ratio information posted in Space 1 and 4 were incorrect, they do not have the highest enhanced ratio box checked, which is what the facility is required to follow based on earning 7 points in Program Standards. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. I observed rest time today, cots were not placed at least 18 inches apart in Space 1 and Space 4. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. While in Space 2, I observed a plastic grocery bag hanging from a hook, less than 5 feet, in the children's rest room, storing a child's soiled clothing. Space 2 serves children 2 and 3 years of age. .0604(q) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff has not had an annual review since July 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Rachel McClain, Owner/administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before September 5, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Age Range in care: I reminded you the license age range is 0-5, therefor no children older than 5 should be in care at any time during operating hours. The staff that brought her own nine year old child today, was an emergency circumstance and you didn't realize it was an issue. I explained that in this situation it would be considered drop in care, she should have a file on site and she should have been grouped with the preschool 5 year olds while in care, instead of staying in the infant room with her mother. In the future, things to think about would be change the age range to up to 12 years of age, if you are going to continue to allow this option for staff children to attend in emergency situations. Make sure the a children's file is complete the 1st morning the child attends and place them in the group appropriate for their age and maintain staff/child ratio. Any child that is in care for any reason must have a file on site and count in staff/child ratio. Cot placement: I encourage each classroom have a tool to measure 18 inches to ensure requirements are met. You may need to move furniture during rest time to have at least 18 inches between cots. Plastic bag storage: I suggest not allowing plastic bag storage in classrooms serving children under 3 years of age. For soiled clothing a small container with a lid is proper storage and there is room on the shelves to store them or store the closed container in the child's cubby. If you continue to use plastic storage bags, ensure they are stored above 5 feet. Reminder: make sure any annual requirement is met by the day before last year's completion date to maintain compliance. Other: WORKS we looked up one staff's education, she received a return letter in September 2023. WORKS states they did not receive an official transcript. You showed me what was sent, which was an official transcript. I provided a contact number to call and follow their instructions if you are required to resubmit. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson (704)594-0039 andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/21/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 8/21/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 11:30 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 unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. Prior to today's visit, the facility's 18 month compliance history was 94%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Rachel McClain, Owner/Administrator. You were able to accompany me on today's walkthrough. It was rest time in four of the classrooms today. Two cots in Space 1 and Space 4 were not at least 18 inches apart, staff moved them further apart during my observation. All children were observed sleeping on cots with clean linen. Staff were observed patty backs and posting items in the classroom, monitoring children as they slept. Material and equipment were found to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. Each classroom had a current activity plan posted. While in the infant room, two staff were present with six children in the room. One of the children present was one of the staff's own school age children who was present because her own care fell through today. The current license age range is 0-5, the child was nine years of age. She was observed seated in a rocking chair while the two infant staff were sitting on the floor with the five infants as they had tummy time. During the staff's break she took her daughter to her other parent for the remainder of the day. While in the infant room I reviewed the current feeding schedules and visual safe sleep documentation and found them meeting compliance. The current ITS/SIDS policy was also posted. Bottles were observed stored properly. All refrigerator thermometers read below 45 degrees. Medications were reviewed and found meeting compliance. All medications were observed stored properly. The outdoor environment was monitored and found meeting compliance. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Program records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The current license was observed posted. All information required to be posted was observed posted in the lobby and classrooms today. The last fire inspection was conducted on 3-22-24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted 5/2/24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You provided the current staff/training worksheet to review. All staff employed more than 1 year and were hired when the Change of ownership occurred have until 9/1/2024 to complete their required on-going trainings. One staff has not had her annual review, the last one completed was done in July 2023. You stated you are aware and have it scheduled to complete. You do not offer transportation. The following violations were observed during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 107 The center did not comply with the permit restrictions. The age range for care, listed on the current license, is 0-5. Today, one staff's nine year old child was present because the child's regular care fell through. GS 110-91; GS 110-106 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. The posted staff/child ratio information posted in Space 1 and 4 were incorrect, they do not have the highest enhanced ratio box checked, which is what the facility is required to follow based on earning 7 points in Program Standards. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. I observed rest time today, cots were not placed at least 18 inches apart in Space 1 and Space 4. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. While in Space 2, I observed a plastic grocery bag hanging from a hook, less than 5 feet, in the children's rest room, storing a child's soiled clothing. Space 2 serves children 2 and 3 years of age. .0604(q) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff has not had an annual review since July 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Rachel McClain, Owner/administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before September 5, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Age Range in care: I reminded you the license age range is 0-5, therefor no children older than 5 should be in care at any time during operating hours. The staff that brought her own nine year old child today, was an emergency circumstance and you didn't realize it was an issue. I explained that in this situation it would be considered drop in care, she should have a file on site and she should have been grouped with the preschool 5 year olds while in care, instead of staying in the infant room with her mother. In the future, things to think about would be change the age range to up to 12 years of age, if you are going to continue to allow this option for staff children to attend in emergency situations. Make sure the a children's file is complete the 1st morning the child attends and place them in the group appropriate for their age and maintain staff/child ratio. Any child that is in care for any reason must have a file on site and count in staff/child ratio. Cot placement: I encourage each classroom have a tool to measure 18 inches to ensure requirements are met. You may need to move furniture during rest time to have at least 18 inches between cots. Plastic bag storage: I suggest not allowing plastic bag storage in classrooms serving children under 3 years of age. For soiled clothing a small container with a lid is proper storage and there is room on the shelves to store them or store the closed container in the child's cubby. If you continue to use plastic storage bags, ensure they are stored above 5 feet. Reminder: make sure any annual requirement is met by the day before last year's completion date to maintain compliance. Other: WORKS we looked up one staff's education, she received a return letter in September 2023. WORKS states they did not receive an official transcript. You showed me what was sent, which was an official transcript. I provided a contact number to call and follow their instructions if you are required to resubmit. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson (704)594-0039 andrea.anderson@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 .0605 · Violation

Name of Operation: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/29/2023 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 8/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The facility changed ownership and began operation on 9-1-22. The compliance history prior to today's visit was 96%. A checklist was used to monitor the facility today. I met with Rachel McClain, Owner/Administrator, during today's visit. You were able to accompany me on the walkthrough of the facility. We monitored each group of children. Space 3 is still not being used and you will keep me updated on the progress of repairs to that room. Each classroom had a current activity plan. Material and equipment was observed in good repair, developmentally appropriate for the age range served and allowed for the current activity plan to be implemented. While in the infant room I observed one infant resting and one staff completing and documenting a visual safe sleep check. The other infants were observed having floor time with a staff member engaging the infants. Current feeding schedules were posted, bottles were observed labeled and dated. The toddler group was observed in free choice activities. All staff were observed on children's eye level engaging them in play. One child was scared of my presence in the classroom and a staff member immediately soothed and comforted her while I monitored the space. The group of two year old's were observed during outdoor time. Both staff were observed moving about the outdoor environment monitoring play. Both preschool groups were observed in a large group activity with a staff reading books and allowing children to respond and engage with what she was reading. Information required to be posted in classrooms were observed posted. Refrigerator thermometers read 45 degrees and below throughout the facility. Supervision and enhanced staff/child ratio were observed being maintained at all times during the visit. Medications were monitored and found meeting compliance. They were observed stored properly and had current written permission to administer, documentation of when medication was administered, and current medical action plans, if applicable were observed meeting compliance. The outdoor environment was monitored and found meeting compliance. Material and equipment were observed to be in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. I reviewed the monthly playground inspections and found them meeting compliance. Program records were monitored and found meeting compliance. All information required to be posted was observed posted in the entrance and each classroom. The current menu was reviewed and found meeting compliance. Current allergy lists were reviewed, they were posted in each classroom. The EPR plan was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5-2-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 2-27-23. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You submitted the staff and training worksheet to me prior to today's visit. I reviewed the newest staff's files. One staff hired 4-17-23 provided proof of completing health and safety trainings, however some of them were older than a year from hire, therefor can not be accepted. One of those trainings was Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Maltreatment, since the training certificate was older than a year from hire she should have completed the training within the first 90 days of hire. All staff have a current DCDEE qualifying letter, CPR/FA certification and specialized trainings are current. You do not offer transportation. The following violation was cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff hired 4-17-23 provided a training certificate dated 11-7-21. Because she completed the training more than a year prior to employment it could not be counted to meet the requirement, she should have completed the training within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Rachel McClain, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before September 12, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Chain Link fencing that is 4 feet: Keep an eye on the top of the chain link fencing that is 4 feet (between the two playgrounds) as the top of the chain link fencing if not flush to the top rail is considered a protrusion. I provided and example of how to maintain compliance. I discussed the following requirement with you. 10A NCAC 09 .0605(i)The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Material and Equipment in Poor Repair: I explained what is considered poor repair other than breaks, cracks and obvious hazards. Interactive toys with dead batteries, books with torn pages, missing covers, missing pages, dramatic play kitchen sets with missing sinks, are some examples of material and equipment in poor repair. Reminder: Health and Safety Training for new hires: 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101. Please contact me anytime you have questions: Andrea Anderson PO Box 49335 Charlotte, NC 28277 andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 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 .1101 · Violation

Name of Operation: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/29/2023 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 8/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The facility changed ownership and began operation on 9-1-22. The compliance history prior to today's visit was 96%. A checklist was used to monitor the facility today. I met with Rachel McClain, Owner/Administrator, during today's visit. You were able to accompany me on the walkthrough of the facility. We monitored each group of children. Space 3 is still not being used and you will keep me updated on the progress of repairs to that room. Each classroom had a current activity plan. Material and equipment was observed in good repair, developmentally appropriate for the age range served and allowed for the current activity plan to be implemented. While in the infant room I observed one infant resting and one staff completing and documenting a visual safe sleep check. The other infants were observed having floor time with a staff member engaging the infants. Current feeding schedules were posted, bottles were observed labeled and dated. The toddler group was observed in free choice activities. All staff were observed on children's eye level engaging them in play. One child was scared of my presence in the classroom and a staff member immediately soothed and comforted her while I monitored the space. The group of two year old's were observed during outdoor time. Both staff were observed moving about the outdoor environment monitoring play. Both preschool groups were observed in a large group activity with a staff reading books and allowing children to respond and engage with what she was reading. Information required to be posted in classrooms were observed posted. Refrigerator thermometers read 45 degrees and below throughout the facility. Supervision and enhanced staff/child ratio were observed being maintained at all times during the visit. Medications were monitored and found meeting compliance. They were observed stored properly and had current written permission to administer, documentation of when medication was administered, and current medical action plans, if applicable were observed meeting compliance. The outdoor environment was monitored and found meeting compliance. Material and equipment were observed to be in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. I reviewed the monthly playground inspections and found them meeting compliance. Program records were monitored and found meeting compliance. All information required to be posted was observed posted in the entrance and each classroom. The current menu was reviewed and found meeting compliance. Current allergy lists were reviewed, they were posted in each classroom. The EPR plan was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5-2-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 2-27-23. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You submitted the staff and training worksheet to me prior to today's visit. I reviewed the newest staff's files. One staff hired 4-17-23 provided proof of completing health and safety trainings, however some of them were older than a year from hire, therefor can not be accepted. One of those trainings was Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Maltreatment, since the training certificate was older than a year from hire she should have completed the training within the first 90 days of hire. All staff have a current DCDEE qualifying letter, CPR/FA certification and specialized trainings are current. You do not offer transportation. The following violation was cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff hired 4-17-23 provided a training certificate dated 11-7-21. Because she completed the training more than a year prior to employment it could not be counted to meet the requirement, she should have completed the training within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Rachel McClain, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before September 12, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Chain Link fencing that is 4 feet: Keep an eye on the top of the chain link fencing that is 4 feet (between the two playgrounds) as the top of the chain link fencing if not flush to the top rail is considered a protrusion. I provided and example of how to maintain compliance. I discussed the following requirement with you. 10A NCAC 09 .0605(i)The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Material and Equipment in Poor Repair: I explained what is considered poor repair other than breaks, cracks and obvious hazards. Interactive toys with dead batteries, books with torn pages, missing covers, missing pages, dramatic play kitchen sets with missing sinks, are some examples of material and equipment in poor repair. Reminder: Health and Safety Training for new hires: 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101. Please contact me anytime you have questions: Andrea Anderson PO Box 49335 Charlotte, NC 28277 andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: BALLANCREST ACADEMY Facility ID: 60004223 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/29/2023 Number Present: 50 Completed Date: 8/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The facility changed ownership and began operation on 9-1-22. The compliance history prior to today's visit was 96%. A checklist was used to monitor the facility today. I met with Rachel McClain, Owner/Administrator, during today's visit. You were able to accompany me on the walkthrough of the facility. We monitored each group of children. Space 3 is still not being used and you will keep me updated on the progress of repairs to that room. Each classroom had a current activity plan. Material and equipment was observed in good repair, developmentally appropriate for the age range served and allowed for the current activity plan to be implemented. While in the infant room I observed one infant resting and one staff completing and documenting a visual safe sleep check. The other infants were observed having floor time with a staff member engaging the infants. Current feeding schedules were posted, bottles were observed labeled and dated. The toddler group was observed in free choice activities. All staff were observed on children's eye level engaging them in play. One child was scared of my presence in the classroom and a staff member immediately soothed and comforted her while I monitored the space. The group of two year old's were observed during outdoor time. Both staff were observed moving about the outdoor environment monitoring play. Both preschool groups were observed in a large group activity with a staff reading books and allowing children to respond and engage with what she was reading. Information required to be posted in classrooms were observed posted. Refrigerator thermometers read 45 degrees and below throughout the facility. Supervision and enhanced staff/child ratio were observed being maintained at all times during the visit. Medications were monitored and found meeting compliance. They were observed stored properly and had current written permission to administer, documentation of when medication was administered, and current medical action plans, if applicable were observed meeting compliance. The outdoor environment was monitored and found meeting compliance. Material and equipment were observed to be in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. I reviewed the monthly playground inspections and found them meeting compliance. Program records were monitored and found meeting compliance. All information required to be posted was observed posted in the entrance and each classroom. The current menu was reviewed and found meeting compliance. Current allergy lists were reviewed, they were posted in each classroom. The EPR plan was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5-2-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 2-27-23. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You submitted the staff and training worksheet to me prior to today's visit. I reviewed the newest staff's files. One staff hired 4-17-23 provided proof of completing health and safety trainings, however some of them were older than a year from hire, therefor can not be accepted. One of those trainings was Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Maltreatment, since the training certificate was older than a year from hire she should have completed the training within the first 90 days of hire. All staff have a current DCDEE qualifying letter, CPR/FA certification and specialized trainings are current. You do not offer transportation. The following violation was cited during today's visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff hired 4-17-23 provided a training certificate dated 11-7-21. Because she completed the training more than a year prior to employment it could not be counted to meet the requirement, she should have completed the training within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Rachel McClain, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before September 12, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Chain Link fencing that is 4 feet: Keep an eye on the top of the chain link fencing that is 4 feet (between the two playgrounds) as the top of the chain link fencing if not flush to the top rail is considered a protrusion. I provided and example of how to maintain compliance. I discussed the following requirement with you. 10A NCAC 09 .0605(i)The outdoor play area shall be protected by a fence. The height shall be a minimum of four feet and the top of the fence shall be free of protrusions. The requirement disallowing protrusions on the tops of fences shall not apply to fences six feet high or above. The fencing shall exclude fixed bodies of water such as ditches, quarries, canals, excavations, and fish ponds. Gates to the fenced outdoor play area shall remain closed while children occupy the area. Material and Equipment in Poor Repair: I explained what is considered poor repair other than breaks, cracks and obvious hazards. Interactive toys with dead batteries, books with torn pages, missing covers, missing pages, dramatic play kitchen sets with missing sinks, are some examples of material and equipment in poor repair. Reminder: Health and Safety Training for new hires: 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS (a) Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment, unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Health and safety training shall be in addition to the new staff orientation requirements set forth in Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1101. Please contact me anytime you have questions: Andrea Anderson PO Box 49335 Charlotte, NC 28277 andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 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