Cadence Academy Preschool, Ballantyne

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/14/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 8/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 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 The facility Director, L. Horton, assisted me with the visit. We completed a walk-through of the facility. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor 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 Cadence Education LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed June 13, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection on file was received on July 12, 2024. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 1, 2025, and the last fire drill was conducted on August 11, 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 ten new staff hired since a routine unannounced visit was conducted on March 4, 2025. Files for all new staff and ten percent of existing staff files were monitored. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated July 12, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals from Foundations for Early Learning and Development. T .0508(b)(1-5) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #2, one cot was not individually labeled for a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Spaces #6, #7 and #10 had several areas of the wall that paints was peeling. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #1, one child's authorization form to administer diaper cream was not signed by the parent. Two children had diaper cream authorization forms for diaper cream however, the instructions to administer was for sunscreen. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was placed in a crib for napping however, documentation had not been completed with information regarding date, time and position of infant. .0606(g) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 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 had not been updated to reflect the current name and contact information for the facility's Child Care Consultants name and Child Care Health Consultant. .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 28, 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: North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development- Activity plans did not include NC Foundations. Extra books were given to the Director during the visit. The book can also be accessed on line with the link provided https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105950-953 Safe Sleep Charts- During my observation in the infant room, I observed an infant in a crib however, there was no documentation of when the infant had been placed in the crib. A conversation was held with the staff in the infant room regarding documentation of date, time and position of infant when placed in the crib. A staff member stated the child was placed in the crib at 9:20. This was corrected while I was in the classroom. Cots- During my observations of classrooms, it was observed that cots have been labeled with different numbers and names of children making it difficult to determine which cot belongs to what child. Cot charts with names and numbers were placed above the cots. A conversation was held with the Director about making the cots more identifiable for new staff and substitute staff. Fire Inspection- A discussion was held with the Director regarding the annual fire inspection. Documentation is on file that the Fire Inspector has conducted inspections in May 2025 and June 2025 however, violations were cited that must be corrected before a reinspection is conducted. The Director contacted the Fire Inspector via email during today’s visit. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/14/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 8/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 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 The facility Director, L. Horton, assisted me with the visit. We completed a walk-through of the facility. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor 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 Cadence Education LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed June 13, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection on file was received on July 12, 2024. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 1, 2025, and the last fire drill was conducted on August 11, 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 ten new staff hired since a routine unannounced visit was conducted on March 4, 2025. Files for all new staff and ten percent of existing staff files were monitored. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated July 12, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals from Foundations for Early Learning and Development. T .0508(b)(1-5) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #2, one cot was not individually labeled for a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Spaces #6, #7 and #10 had several areas of the wall that paints was peeling. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #1, one child's authorization form to administer diaper cream was not signed by the parent. Two children had diaper cream authorization forms for diaper cream however, the instructions to administer was for sunscreen. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was placed in a crib for napping however, documentation had not been completed with information regarding date, time and position of infant. .0606(g) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 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 had not been updated to reflect the current name and contact information for the facility's Child Care Consultants name and Child Care Health Consultant. .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 28, 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: North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development- Activity plans did not include NC Foundations. Extra books were given to the Director during the visit. The book can also be accessed on line with the link provided https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105950-953 Safe Sleep Charts- During my observation in the infant room, I observed an infant in a crib however, there was no documentation of when the infant had been placed in the crib. A conversation was held with the staff in the infant room regarding documentation of date, time and position of infant when placed in the crib. A staff member stated the child was placed in the crib at 9:20. This was corrected while I was in the classroom. Cots- During my observations of classrooms, it was observed that cots have been labeled with different numbers and names of children making it difficult to determine which cot belongs to what child. Cot charts with names and numbers were placed above the cots. A conversation was held with the Director about making the cots more identifiable for new staff and substitute staff. Fire Inspection- A discussion was held with the Director regarding the annual fire inspection. Documentation is on file that the Fire Inspector has conducted inspections in May 2025 and June 2025 however, violations were cited that must be corrected before a reinspection is conducted. The Director contacted the Fire Inspector via email during today’s visit. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/14/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 8/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 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 The facility Director, L. Horton, assisted me with the visit. We completed a walk-through of the facility. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor 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 Cadence Education LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed June 13, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection on file was received on July 12, 2024. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 1, 2025, and the last fire drill was conducted on August 11, 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 ten new staff hired since a routine unannounced visit was conducted on March 4, 2025. Files for all new staff and ten percent of existing staff files were monitored. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated July 12, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals from Foundations for Early Learning and Development. T .0508(b)(1-5) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #2, one cot was not individually labeled for a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Spaces #6, #7 and #10 had several areas of the wall that paints was peeling. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #1, one child's authorization form to administer diaper cream was not signed by the parent. Two children had diaper cream authorization forms for diaper cream however, the instructions to administer was for sunscreen. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was placed in a crib for napping however, documentation had not been completed with information regarding date, time and position of infant. .0606(g) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 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 had not been updated to reflect the current name and contact information for the facility's Child Care Consultants name and Child Care Health Consultant. .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 28, 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: North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development- Activity plans did not include NC Foundations. Extra books were given to the Director during the visit. The book can also be accessed on line with the link provided https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105950-953 Safe Sleep Charts- During my observation in the infant room, I observed an infant in a crib however, there was no documentation of when the infant had been placed in the crib. A conversation was held with the staff in the infant room regarding documentation of date, time and position of infant when placed in the crib. A staff member stated the child was placed in the crib at 9:20. This was corrected while I was in the classroom. Cots- During my observations of classrooms, it was observed that cots have been labeled with different numbers and names of children making it difficult to determine which cot belongs to what child. Cot charts with names and numbers were placed above the cots. A conversation was held with the Director about making the cots more identifiable for new staff and substitute staff. Fire Inspection- A discussion was held with the Director regarding the annual fire inspection. Documentation is on file that the Fire Inspector has conducted inspections in May 2025 and June 2025 however, violations were cited that must be corrected before a reinspection is conducted. The Director contacted the Fire Inspector via email during today’s visit. 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: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/14/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 8/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:45 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 The facility Director, L. Horton, assisted me with the visit. We completed a walk-through of the facility. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor 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 Cadence Education LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed June 13, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last approved fire inspection on file was received on July 12, 2024. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 1, 2025, and the last fire drill was conducted on August 11, 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 ten new staff hired since a routine unannounced visit was conducted on March 4, 2025. Files for all new staff and ten percent of existing staff files were monitored. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last approved fire inspection on file is dated July 12, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals from Foundations for Early Learning and Development. T .0508(b)(1-5) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #2, one cot was not individually labeled for a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Spaces #6, #7 and #10 had several areas of the wall that paints was peeling. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. In space #1, one child's authorization form to administer diaper cream was not signed by the parent. Two children had diaper cream authorization forms for diaper cream however, the instructions to administer was for sunscreen. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was placed in a crib for napping however, documentation had not been completed with information regarding date, time and position of infant. .0606(g) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have an immunization record on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 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 had not been updated to reflect the current name and contact information for the facility's Child Care Consultants name and Child Care Health Consultant. .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 28, 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: North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development- Activity plans did not include NC Foundations. Extra books were given to the Director during the visit. The book can also be accessed on line with the link provided https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105950-953 Safe Sleep Charts- During my observation in the infant room, I observed an infant in a crib however, there was no documentation of when the infant had been placed in the crib. A conversation was held with the staff in the infant room regarding documentation of date, time and position of infant when placed in the crib. A staff member stated the child was placed in the crib at 9:20. This was corrected while I was in the classroom. Cots- During my observations of classrooms, it was observed that cots have been labeled with different numbers and names of children making it difficult to determine which cot belongs to what child. Cot charts with names and numbers were placed above the cots. A conversation was held with the Director about making the cots more identifiable for new staff and substitute staff. Fire Inspection- A discussion was held with the Director regarding the annual fire inspection. Documentation is on file that the Fire Inspector has conducted inspections in May 2025 and June 2025 however, violations were cited that must be corrected before a reinspection is conducted. The Director contacted the Fire Inspector via email during today’s visit. 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: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/4/2025 Number Present: 124 Completed Date: 3/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 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 October 7, 2019. The program’s compliance history before today’s visit was ninety-two percent. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on March 3, 2025, and Cadence Education LLC was listed as current-active. L. Horton, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director. Children were observed in the indoor learning and outdoor environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in free choice of indoor activities, transitions, personal care routines and teacher directed activities. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Three new staff files were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were reviewed to verify existing staff were current with criminal background checks, ITS-SIDS training, First Aid and CPR certification. The last fire inspection was conducted on July 12, 2024. The sanitation inspection was conducted on December 30, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. A lockdown drill was conducted on January 31, 2025, and the last fire drill was conducted on February 5, 2025 Playground Inspection Checklists were also monitored today and occurring monthly as required. The following violations were cited. 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 spaces #5, #6, #7 and #8, there was chipping paint on the walls throughout the classrooms. In space #8, the baseboard near the direct exit had several places that the paint was peeling. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #3, diapers creams were located in an unlocked bottom cabinet of the changing table. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(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 18, 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: Chipping/Peeling Paint-All walls, doors and ceiling must be free of peeling/chipping paint. The Director stated that the facility has someone that comes once a month to touch up areas that have peeling/chipping paint. Diaper Creams- Diaper creams must be stored at least five feet above the floor or in locked storage. The Teacher reported that she had just changed a child's diaper and must have forgotten to lock the cabinet. The Director reminded the Teacher that the cabinet must be locked at all times. The cabinet was locked by the Director while we were in the classroom. A discussion was held with the Director regarding college transcripts from another country. For transcripts from another country to be evaluated by the Workforce Unit, they must be translated before submitting. International Education Evaluations, Inc. is a local agency which can provide a translation of college transcripts. International Education Evaluations, Inc. (IEE) 7900 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28227 Phone: (704) 772-0109 https://myiee.org 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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-221L Visit Date: 1/29/2025 Number Present: 127 Completed Date: 1/29/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations of childcare requirements during a complaint visit. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Lisa Horton, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. I shared the following allegations with the Director. Allegations: There is a concern that: A child is not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. Appropriate ratios are not maintained. Today, I interviewed the Director and eleven staff members regarding both allegations. Allegation #1 regarding a child is not treated in a nurturing and caring manner. The Director reported no concerns or observations. Staff reported no observations of children not being treated in a nurturing and caring manner throughout the facility. During the visit, I completed a walk-through of the facility and spent time observing interactions between staff and children. Staff were observed interacting with the children in a nurturing and caring manner. Allegation #2 regarding staff/child ratios. The Director and staff reported no issues with staff/child ratios. Staff reported administrators are notified as children are arriving if ratios are close and if another staff member may be needed soon. I reviewed name to face rosters and staffing patterns for each classroom for the month of January 2025. The rosters include arrival times for children and staff as well as times when children are transitioned to another classroom or departing for the day. The Director reported that each time a classroom transitions outside to the playground and back inside, the staff communicate via walkie talkie to the administrators that they are transitioning, how many children are present and how many staff are present. I observed this procedure during the visit. I also conducted a walk-through of the facility. Staff/child ratios, group size and supervision were found to be in compliance. Based on discussions with the Director and staff and observations, the allegation regarding a child is not treated in a nurturing and caring manner was deemed unsubstantiated. Based on discussion with the Director and staff, observations and review of name to face rosters, the allegation regarding ratios are not maintained was deemed unsubstantiated. One violation was cited and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. In space #4, there were three cots spaced 12" apart, two cots 10" apart and two cots 14" apart. In space #6, two cots were touching and two cots 12" apart. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) The following technical assistance was provided: Although it was not confirmed that children are not treated in a nurturing and caring manner, conversations with the staff and Director indicated several classrooms that have children with challenging behaviors. I suggested the Director contact Child Care Resources Inc. (CCRI) Healthy Social Behavior Project to request technical assistance. The project provides healthy social behaviors and social emotional teacher coaching. The Director reported that a training course has been scheduled for February 20, 2025, with CCRI regarding Building Relationships with Children and Youth Who Challenge Us. - Conversations were held with the Director and staff regarding the requirements for spacing between individual cots and mats used for rest time. When in use, cribs, cots, mats and play pens shall be placed at least 18 inches apart or separated by partitions that prevent physical contact between children. -A discussion was held with the Director regarding the use of sound machines in an infant classroom. Based on the American Pediatric Academy they should be used at a low tone and according to manufacturer’s guidelines. Multiply sound machines should not be used at the same time and cords cannot be accessible. -ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401. 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

10A NCAC 09 .0515 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/20/2024 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 8/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 88%. I met with Lisa Horton, Administrator, during today's visit. You were able to accompany me on today's walkthrough. You informed me that three classrooms are currently closed, one due to sickness and the other two are Meck Pre-K classrooms and have not reopened yet. During today's walkthrough I was observed to observed infants having one on one staff/child time as well as resting. Visual safe sleep checks were completed during the observation and staff documented the checks on the child's visual safe sleep log. I reviewed current and past logs and found them meeting compliance. Bottles were observed stored properly and each were labeled and dated. The current ITS/SIDS policy was observed posted along with the current activity plan. Current feeding schedules were observed posted. Classrooms serving toddlers were observed in free choice activities. Staff were observed engaging children in singing/dancing and helping with material. Current feeding schedules for children under 15 months were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Classrooms serving two year olds were observed outdoors and indoors, hand washing and preparing for lunch. A variety of material was observed in the outdoor play environment while they were outdoors. Each interest center indoors was clearly defines with a variety of material. Each preschool classroom was also observed. I spoke with staff regarding deep cleaning when items have dust and dirt build up. Preschool children were observed during indoor center play, outdoor play, and rest time. Each classroom had a current activity plan posted and I observed daily activities being implemented. Staff used nurturing tones as they spoke with children in care. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed meeting compliance with each group. All refrigerator thermometers read below 45 degrees. Medications were monitored, found stored properly and had current written permission to administer. You currently do not have any children with medical conditions requiring medical action plans. Outlets were observed covered. Hazardous cleaning supplies were observed in use and stored properly when not in use. Program records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The current license, Summary of the NC Child Care Law, EMC, Safe arrival and departure information was observed in the lobby. Throughout the center I observed current allergy information, activity plans, ITS/SIDS policy, First Aid Posters, Cot Charts, feeding schedules and staff/child ratio information posted. I reviewed the current emergency drill log and found it meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 7/12/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 6/20/24. Monthly playground inspections and the incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You provided the current staff and training worksheets to review, I used them to review staff files. One staff did not have proof of completing the required health and safety trainings within her first year of employment. One staff hired 8/22 left and returned and should have completed the training by 10/23 and she didn't complete them until 8/14/24. You do not offer transportation. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed serval toys with dust and dirt build up in space 5 and 6. .2822(a)(1-4) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 5 I observed puzzles pieces stored in a container; the photo of the puzzle was not present to help guide children as they put the puzzle together. Battery operated interactive toys did not work properly, batteries were either missing or dead in Space 5 and Space 6. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fencing between outdoor play areas, which is four feet is a chain linked fence that is not flush at the top and is considered a protrusion. I also observed areas where the fencing is unraveling leaving sharp edges and protruding into the play areas. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1211 Parent participation plan did not include a procedure for parents who need information or who have complaints about the program. The current family handbook does not provide procedures on when parents need information or have a complaint about the program listed as part of their parent participation plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(b)(4) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff hired 7/17/23 does not have proof of completing the required trainings. One staff hired 8/18/22 but left a few months, had until 10/18/23 to complete them and did not complete the trainings until 8/14/24. .1102(a) 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. Lisa Horton, 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 4, 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: Items in poor repair: I encourage you talk with all staff regarding material in their classroom. Poor repair would be things such as puzzles missing the box or picture of the puzzle complete to help guide children, interactive toys with dead batteries, board games missing instructions, and books with torn pages. Staff want to remember that material and equipment remain in good repair and able to be used following the manufacturers guidelines. Cleaning - I know staff are spraying and cleaning daily, however at least once a week they should be wiping down material with crevasses, buckets, shelving to ensure dirt/dust building up dry foods or spittle is removed. Health and Safety Trainings: I would encourage staff have a copy of the health and safety log to ensure they are getting the training they need within the timeframe outlined and then come up with a process to turn them quarterly or at least one month before they are due to ensure they get them in time. Rated License Reassessment: Currently all facilities, under SB 425, may remain in hold harmless and are not required to move forward with the rated license assessment. However, if you choose to, you may apply for the 2-5 star rated license with the following options: Option 1: you may request the environmental rating scales (ITERS-R, ECERS-R, SACERS-U) and be assessed to earn points in program standards, have staff evaluated by DCDEE WORKS to earn education points, review the quality points and choose one you meet to earn a quality point. A star rating will be issued based on the points earned. You must meet minimum standards of the license. The application for reassessment and request for scales is on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. NCRLAP.org has a lot of resources and videos regarding each scale. You stated that you just began working with CCRI in preparing for the rated license reassessment. Option 2: Accreditation. If your facility has been accredited by one of the agencies below you may request to earn a star rated license based provided the facility maintains its accreditation and remains in good standing. In addition to maintaining the accreditation status a facility must also meet the minimum licensing requirements outlined in Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and Chapter 110 General Statutes Child Care Facilities. Please note, that rulemaking for NC’S Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is an ongoing process led by the NC Child Care Commission. Once Child Care Rules are adopted, there may be additional requirements that apply to the accreditation licensure pathway, such as staff/child ratio requirements and a way to increase the star rating if your accreditation results in a Three-Star Rated License. The Request to Use Accreditation Licensure Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License is also on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. o NAEYC - https://www.naeyc.org/accreditation/higher-ed/accredited-programs o NAC - https://www.earlylearningleaders.org/accreditation/accredited-programs/ o NAFCC - https://nafcc.org/accreditation/nationally-accredited-fcc-educators-map/ o NECPA - https://necpa.net/programs o COGNIA - https://home.cognia.org/registry o AMS - https://amshq.org/Families/AMS-Member-Schools o IMC - https://www.montessori.org/montessori-school-directory/ Other: I encourage you to add one more person to the EMC plan, just in case you or your assistant leave the premise when one of you is out, you are covered. Incident logs - set time aside each week to input that weeks incident reports, if applicable. If you have any questions please contact me: 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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/20/2024 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 8/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 88%. I met with Lisa Horton, Administrator, during today's visit. You were able to accompany me on today's walkthrough. You informed me that three classrooms are currently closed, one due to sickness and the other two are Meck Pre-K classrooms and have not reopened yet. During today's walkthrough I was observed to observed infants having one on one staff/child time as well as resting. Visual safe sleep checks were completed during the observation and staff documented the checks on the child's visual safe sleep log. I reviewed current and past logs and found them meeting compliance. Bottles were observed stored properly and each were labeled and dated. The current ITS/SIDS policy was observed posted along with the current activity plan. Current feeding schedules were observed posted. Classrooms serving toddlers were observed in free choice activities. Staff were observed engaging children in singing/dancing and helping with material. Current feeding schedules for children under 15 months were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Classrooms serving two year olds were observed outdoors and indoors, hand washing and preparing for lunch. A variety of material was observed in the outdoor play environment while they were outdoors. Each interest center indoors was clearly defines with a variety of material. Each preschool classroom was also observed. I spoke with staff regarding deep cleaning when items have dust and dirt build up. Preschool children were observed during indoor center play, outdoor play, and rest time. Each classroom had a current activity plan posted and I observed daily activities being implemented. Staff used nurturing tones as they spoke with children in care. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed meeting compliance with each group. All refrigerator thermometers read below 45 degrees. Medications were monitored, found stored properly and had current written permission to administer. You currently do not have any children with medical conditions requiring medical action plans. Outlets were observed covered. Hazardous cleaning supplies were observed in use and stored properly when not in use. Program records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The current license, Summary of the NC Child Care Law, EMC, Safe arrival and departure information was observed in the lobby. Throughout the center I observed current allergy information, activity plans, ITS/SIDS policy, First Aid Posters, Cot Charts, feeding schedules and staff/child ratio information posted. I reviewed the current emergency drill log and found it meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 7/12/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 6/20/24. Monthly playground inspections and the incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You provided the current staff and training worksheets to review, I used them to review staff files. One staff did not have proof of completing the required health and safety trainings within her first year of employment. One staff hired 8/22 left and returned and should have completed the training by 10/23 and she didn't complete them until 8/14/24. You do not offer transportation. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed serval toys with dust and dirt build up in space 5 and 6. .2822(a)(1-4) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 5 I observed puzzles pieces stored in a container; the photo of the puzzle was not present to help guide children as they put the puzzle together. Battery operated interactive toys did not work properly, batteries were either missing or dead in Space 5 and Space 6. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fencing between outdoor play areas, which is four feet is a chain linked fence that is not flush at the top and is considered a protrusion. I also observed areas where the fencing is unraveling leaving sharp edges and protruding into the play areas. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1211 Parent participation plan did not include a procedure for parents who need information or who have complaints about the program. The current family handbook does not provide procedures on when parents need information or have a complaint about the program listed as part of their parent participation plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(b)(4) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff hired 7/17/23 does not have proof of completing the required trainings. One staff hired 8/18/22 but left a few months, had until 10/18/23 to complete them and did not complete the trainings until 8/14/24. .1102(a) 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. Lisa Horton, 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 4, 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: Items in poor repair: I encourage you talk with all staff regarding material in their classroom. Poor repair would be things such as puzzles missing the box or picture of the puzzle complete to help guide children, interactive toys with dead batteries, board games missing instructions, and books with torn pages. Staff want to remember that material and equipment remain in good repair and able to be used following the manufacturers guidelines. Cleaning - I know staff are spraying and cleaning daily, however at least once a week they should be wiping down material with crevasses, buckets, shelving to ensure dirt/dust building up dry foods or spittle is removed. Health and Safety Trainings: I would encourage staff have a copy of the health and safety log to ensure they are getting the training they need within the timeframe outlined and then come up with a process to turn them quarterly or at least one month before they are due to ensure they get them in time. Rated License Reassessment: Currently all facilities, under SB 425, may remain in hold harmless and are not required to move forward with the rated license assessment. However, if you choose to, you may apply for the 2-5 star rated license with the following options: Option 1: you may request the environmental rating scales (ITERS-R, ECERS-R, SACERS-U) and be assessed to earn points in program standards, have staff evaluated by DCDEE WORKS to earn education points, review the quality points and choose one you meet to earn a quality point. A star rating will be issued based on the points earned. You must meet minimum standards of the license. The application for reassessment and request for scales is on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. NCRLAP.org has a lot of resources and videos regarding each scale. You stated that you just began working with CCRI in preparing for the rated license reassessment. Option 2: Accreditation. If your facility has been accredited by one of the agencies below you may request to earn a star rated license based provided the facility maintains its accreditation and remains in good standing. In addition to maintaining the accreditation status a facility must also meet the minimum licensing requirements outlined in Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and Chapter 110 General Statutes Child Care Facilities. Please note, that rulemaking for NC’S Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is an ongoing process led by the NC Child Care Commission. Once Child Care Rules are adopted, there may be additional requirements that apply to the accreditation licensure pathway, such as staff/child ratio requirements and a way to increase the star rating if your accreditation results in a Three-Star Rated License. The Request to Use Accreditation Licensure Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License is also on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. o NAEYC - https://www.naeyc.org/accreditation/higher-ed/accredited-programs o NAC - https://www.earlylearningleaders.org/accreditation/accredited-programs/ o NAFCC - https://nafcc.org/accreditation/nationally-accredited-fcc-educators-map/ o NECPA - https://necpa.net/programs o COGNIA - https://home.cognia.org/registry o AMS - https://amshq.org/Families/AMS-Member-Schools o IMC - https://www.montessori.org/montessori-school-directory/ Other: I encourage you to add one more person to the EMC plan, just in case you or your assistant leave the premise when one of you is out, you are covered. Incident logs - set time aside each week to input that weeks incident reports, if applicable. If you have any questions please contact me: 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

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/20/2024 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 8/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 88%. I met with Lisa Horton, Administrator, during today's visit. You were able to accompany me on today's walkthrough. You informed me that three classrooms are currently closed, one due to sickness and the other two are Meck Pre-K classrooms and have not reopened yet. During today's walkthrough I was observed to observed infants having one on one staff/child time as well as resting. Visual safe sleep checks were completed during the observation and staff documented the checks on the child's visual safe sleep log. I reviewed current and past logs and found them meeting compliance. Bottles were observed stored properly and each were labeled and dated. The current ITS/SIDS policy was observed posted along with the current activity plan. Current feeding schedules were observed posted. Classrooms serving toddlers were observed in free choice activities. Staff were observed engaging children in singing/dancing and helping with material. Current feeding schedules for children under 15 months were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Classrooms serving two year olds were observed outdoors and indoors, hand washing and preparing for lunch. A variety of material was observed in the outdoor play environment while they were outdoors. Each interest center indoors was clearly defines with a variety of material. Each preschool classroom was also observed. I spoke with staff regarding deep cleaning when items have dust and dirt build up. Preschool children were observed during indoor center play, outdoor play, and rest time. Each classroom had a current activity plan posted and I observed daily activities being implemented. Staff used nurturing tones as they spoke with children in care. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed meeting compliance with each group. All refrigerator thermometers read below 45 degrees. Medications were monitored, found stored properly and had current written permission to administer. You currently do not have any children with medical conditions requiring medical action plans. Outlets were observed covered. Hazardous cleaning supplies were observed in use and stored properly when not in use. Program records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The current license, Summary of the NC Child Care Law, EMC, Safe arrival and departure information was observed in the lobby. Throughout the center I observed current allergy information, activity plans, ITS/SIDS policy, First Aid Posters, Cot Charts, feeding schedules and staff/child ratio information posted. I reviewed the current emergency drill log and found it meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 7/12/24. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 6/20/24. Monthly playground inspections and the incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. A sample of children's records were reviewed and found meeting compliance. You provided the current staff and training worksheets to review, I used them to review staff files. One staff did not have proof of completing the required health and safety trainings within her first year of employment. One staff hired 8/22 left and returned and should have completed the training by 10/23 and she didn't complete them until 8/14/24. You do not offer transportation. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed serval toys with dust and dirt build up in space 5 and 6. .2822(a)(1-4) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. In Space 5 I observed puzzles pieces stored in a container; the photo of the puzzle was not present to help guide children as they put the puzzle together. Battery operated interactive toys did not work properly, batteries were either missing or dead in Space 5 and Space 6. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. The fencing between outdoor play areas, which is four feet is a chain linked fence that is not flush at the top and is considered a protrusion. I also observed areas where the fencing is unraveling leaving sharp edges and protruding into the play areas. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1211 Parent participation plan did not include a procedure for parents who need information or who have complaints about the program. The current family handbook does not provide procedures on when parents need information or have a complaint about the program listed as part of their parent participation plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(b)(4) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff hired 7/17/23 does not have proof of completing the required trainings. One staff hired 8/18/22 but left a few months, had until 10/18/23 to complete them and did not complete the trainings until 8/14/24. .1102(a) 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. Lisa Horton, 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 4, 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: Items in poor repair: I encourage you talk with all staff regarding material in their classroom. Poor repair would be things such as puzzles missing the box or picture of the puzzle complete to help guide children, interactive toys with dead batteries, board games missing instructions, and books with torn pages. Staff want to remember that material and equipment remain in good repair and able to be used following the manufacturers guidelines. Cleaning - I know staff are spraying and cleaning daily, however at least once a week they should be wiping down material with crevasses, buckets, shelving to ensure dirt/dust building up dry foods or spittle is removed. Health and Safety Trainings: I would encourage staff have a copy of the health and safety log to ensure they are getting the training they need within the timeframe outlined and then come up with a process to turn them quarterly or at least one month before they are due to ensure they get them in time. Rated License Reassessment: Currently all facilities, under SB 425, may remain in hold harmless and are not required to move forward with the rated license assessment. However, if you choose to, you may apply for the 2-5 star rated license with the following options: Option 1: you may request the environmental rating scales (ITERS-R, ECERS-R, SACERS-U) and be assessed to earn points in program standards, have staff evaluated by DCDEE WORKS to earn education points, review the quality points and choose one you meet to earn a quality point. A star rating will be issued based on the points earned. You must meet minimum standards of the license. The application for reassessment and request for scales is on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. NCRLAP.org has a lot of resources and videos regarding each scale. You stated that you just began working with CCRI in preparing for the rated license reassessment. Option 2: Accreditation. If your facility has been accredited by one of the agencies below you may request to earn a star rated license based provided the facility maintains its accreditation and remains in good standing. In addition to maintaining the accreditation status a facility must also meet the minimum licensing requirements outlined in Chapter 9 Child Care Rules and Chapter 110 General Statutes Child Care Facilities. Please note, that rulemaking for NC’S Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is an ongoing process led by the NC Child Care Commission. Once Child Care Rules are adopted, there may be additional requirements that apply to the accreditation licensure pathway, such as staff/child ratio requirements and a way to increase the star rating if your accreditation results in a Three-Star Rated License. The Request to Use Accreditation Licensure Pathway to Earn a Star Rated License is also on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. o NAEYC - https://www.naeyc.org/accreditation/higher-ed/accredited-programs o NAC - https://www.earlylearningleaders.org/accreditation/accredited-programs/ o NAFCC - https://nafcc.org/accreditation/nationally-accredited-fcc-educators-map/ o NECPA - https://necpa.net/programs o COGNIA - https://home.cognia.org/registry o AMS - https://amshq.org/Families/AMS-Member-Schools o IMC - https://www.montessori.org/montessori-school-directory/ Other: I encourage you to add one more person to the EMC plan, just in case you or your assistant leave the premise when one of you is out, you are covered. Incident logs - set time aside each week to input that weeks incident reports, if applicable. If you have any questions please contact me: 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 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: DORA NETTLES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0624-294A Visit Date: 7/1/2024 Number Present: 120 Completed Date: 7/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Lisa Horton, administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Horton and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and/or confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Staff failed to provided a safe environment when two staff members engaged in a physical altercation in the presence of two year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Staff did not provide a nurturing environment when two staff members engaged in a verbal and physical altercation in the presence of two year old children. G.S. 110-91(10) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week (7/8/2024), you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Dora Nettles, Investigations Consultant, 704-386-0374, dora.nettles@dhhs.nc.gov , fax 919-715-1013. You may contact me, Dora Nettles, Investigations Consultant, 704-386-0374, dora.nettles@dhhs.nc.gov or Veronica Grant, South Central Investigations Team Supervisor, veronica.grant@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: DORA NETTLES Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0624-294A Visit Date: 7/1/2024 Number Present: 120 Completed Date: 7/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Lisa Horton, administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Horton and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and/or confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Staff failed to provided a safe environment when two staff members engaged in a physical altercation in the presence of two year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Staff did not provide a nurturing environment when two staff members engaged in a verbal and physical altercation in the presence of two year old children. G.S. 110-91(10) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week (7/8/2024), you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Dora Nettles, Investigations Consultant, 704-386-0374, dora.nettles@dhhs.nc.gov , fax 919-715-1013. You may contact me, Dora Nettles, Investigations Consultant, 704-386-0374, dora.nettles@dhhs.nc.gov or Veronica Grant, South Central Investigations Team Supervisor, veronica.grant@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/2/2023 Number Present: 106 Completed Date: 8/2/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 01:45 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s Unannounced follow-up visit was to monitor for applicable childcare requirements. The facility currently has a Five Star Rated License issued October 7, 2019. The facility’s compliance history prior to today’s visit was 88%. The facility’s last Annual Inspection was completed on August 26, 2022. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Julie Wilkinson, Assistant Director. Ms. Horton, director, was at an appointment. Ms. Wilkinson and I conducted a walk-through of the facility. Infants were observed playing on the floor. Six (6) infants were marked present on the name to face sheet, however only five (5) infants were present. In space# nine (9) toddlers were marked present on the name to face sheet, ten (10) toddlers were present. Preschool children were observed napping, waking from nap and participating in free play activities. In space #6 three walls had peeling paint. Staff were observed, participating in play activities with the children and assisting with routines. Teachers were observed engaged and interacting positively with the children. All groups were with staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. All hazardous products were stored locked. After the walk-through I request staff files for verify spelling of names. Ms. Wilkinson did not have a key to until the back room where the staff files are kept. Program records were reviewed and found in compliance. - The last sanitation inspection was conducted on June 23, 2023, with 8 demerits, superior rating. - The last fire inspection was July 7, 2023. I did not receive the fire inspection until July 28, 2023. Four (4) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Wilkinson. Two (2) were considered corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was July 7, 2023. I did not receive the fire inspection until July 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #6 three walls had peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. After the walk-through I requested staff files to verify spelling of names. Ms. Wilkinson did not have a key to the back room, that was locked and where the staff files are kept. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Six (6) infants were marked present on the name to face sheet, however only five (5) infants were present. In space# nine (9) toddlers were marked present on the name to face sheet, ten (10) toddlers were present. GS 110-91(9) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The provider will send the following to me on or before August 16, 2023, 2023. Ms. Horton must send a letter explaining what actions were taken to correct the violations cited during the visit. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the due date listed about may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Please mail/email/scan this letter to: Amy Italiano – amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 659 Waxhaw NC 28173 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. Technical Assistance: - It was discussed with Ms. Wilkinson that teachers need to be reviewing name to face sheets through out the day to ensure the number of children present in the classroom reflects the name to face sheets. - Ms. Wilkinson and I discussed the importance of being able to access staff files in case of an emergency. It was suggested that a key be the facility or keep the door unlocked during operating ours. - The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, 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. While the first reassessment year won’t begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. Your facility is in cohort 2. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/2/2023 Number Present: 106 Completed Date: 8/2/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 01:45 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s Unannounced follow-up visit was to monitor for applicable childcare requirements. The facility currently has a Five Star Rated License issued October 7, 2019. The facility’s compliance history prior to today’s visit was 88%. The facility’s last Annual Inspection was completed on August 26, 2022. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Julie Wilkinson, Assistant Director. Ms. Horton, director, was at an appointment. Ms. Wilkinson and I conducted a walk-through of the facility. Infants were observed playing on the floor. Six (6) infants were marked present on the name to face sheet, however only five (5) infants were present. In space# nine (9) toddlers were marked present on the name to face sheet, ten (10) toddlers were present. Preschool children were observed napping, waking from nap and participating in free play activities. In space #6 three walls had peeling paint. Staff were observed, participating in play activities with the children and assisting with routines. Teachers were observed engaged and interacting positively with the children. All groups were with staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. All hazardous products were stored locked. After the walk-through I request staff files for verify spelling of names. Ms. Wilkinson did not have a key to until the back room where the staff files are kept. Program records were reviewed and found in compliance. - The last sanitation inspection was conducted on June 23, 2023, with 8 demerits, superior rating. - The last fire inspection was July 7, 2023. I did not receive the fire inspection until July 28, 2023. Four (4) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Wilkinson. Two (2) were considered corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was July 7, 2023. I did not receive the fire inspection until July 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #6 three walls had peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. After the walk-through I requested staff files to verify spelling of names. Ms. Wilkinson did not have a key to the back room, that was locked and where the staff files are kept. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Six (6) infants were marked present on the name to face sheet, however only five (5) infants were present. In space# nine (9) toddlers were marked present on the name to face sheet, ten (10) toddlers were present. GS 110-91(9) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The provider will send the following to me on or before August 16, 2023, 2023. Ms. Horton must send a letter explaining what actions were taken to correct the violations cited during the visit. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the due date listed about may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Please mail/email/scan this letter to: Amy Italiano – amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 659 Waxhaw NC 28173 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. Technical Assistance: - It was discussed with Ms. Wilkinson that teachers need to be reviewing name to face sheets through out the day to ensure the number of children present in the classroom reflects the name to face sheets. - Ms. Wilkinson and I discussed the importance of being able to access staff files in case of an emergency. It was suggested that a key be the facility or keep the door unlocked during operating ours. - The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, 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. While the first reassessment year won’t begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. Your facility is in cohort 2. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@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: CADENCE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL, BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60002683 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/2/2023 Number Present: 106 Completed Date: 8/2/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 01:45 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s Unannounced follow-up visit was to monitor for applicable childcare requirements. The facility currently has a Five Star Rated License issued October 7, 2019. The facility’s compliance history prior to today’s visit was 88%. The facility’s last Annual Inspection was completed on August 26, 2022. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Julie Wilkinson, Assistant Director. Ms. Horton, director, was at an appointment. Ms. Wilkinson and I conducted a walk-through of the facility. Infants were observed playing on the floor. Six (6) infants were marked present on the name to face sheet, however only five (5) infants were present. In space# nine (9) toddlers were marked present on the name to face sheet, ten (10) toddlers were present. Preschool children were observed napping, waking from nap and participating in free play activities. In space #6 three walls had peeling paint. Staff were observed, participating in play activities with the children and assisting with routines. Teachers were observed engaged and interacting positively with the children. All groups were with staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. All hazardous products were stored locked. After the walk-through I request staff files for verify spelling of names. Ms. Wilkinson did not have a key to until the back room where the staff files are kept. Program records were reviewed and found in compliance. - The last sanitation inspection was conducted on June 23, 2023, with 8 demerits, superior rating. - The last fire inspection was July 7, 2023. I did not receive the fire inspection until July 28, 2023. Four (4) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Wilkinson. Two (2) were considered corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was July 7, 2023. I did not receive the fire inspection until July 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #6 three walls had peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. After the walk-through I requested staff files to verify spelling of names. Ms. Wilkinson did not have a key to the back room, that was locked and where the staff files are kept. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Six (6) infants were marked present on the name to face sheet, however only five (5) infants were present. In space# nine (9) toddlers were marked present on the name to face sheet, ten (10) toddlers were present. GS 110-91(9) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The provider will send the following to me on or before August 16, 2023, 2023. Ms. Horton must send a letter explaining what actions were taken to correct the violations cited during the visit. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the due date listed about may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Please mail/email/scan this letter to: Amy Italiano – amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 659 Waxhaw NC 28173 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. Technical Assistance: - It was discussed with Ms. Wilkinson that teachers need to be reviewing name to face sheets through out the day to ensure the number of children present in the classroom reflects the name to face sheets. - Ms. Wilkinson and I discussed the importance of being able to access staff files in case of an emergency. It was suggested that a key be the facility or keep the door unlocked during operating ours. - The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, 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. While the first reassessment year won’t begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. Your facility is in cohort 2. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@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