10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .2203 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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 09.2200 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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. 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2025 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/6/2025 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 146 Time In: 09:04 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s follow-up complaint visit is to verify correction of violations documented during the annual compliance visit December 2, 2024, and Other Visit December 9, 2024. The compliance history was 87 % prior to today’s visit. Supervision, capacity, adequate/approved space CBC Qualifying Letters, First Aid/CPR Training and general license requirements were monitored during today’s visit. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms. I was greeted by Ms. Ava McClendon-Grimes, Teacher Assistant. Ms. Amy Clarke, Lead Teacher, was not present today. I explained the purpose of the visit to Ms. Grimes, and she provided the Licensing Notebook for review. Ms. Aisha Intriago was working as a substitute in Ms. Clark’s classroom. I reviewed the outstanding violations with Ms. McClendon-Grimes and then conducted a walk through the four (4) NC PreK classrooms today. I observed children engaged in circle time and transitioning to outdoor play. Caregivers were attending to the needs of the children. I observed caring and nurturing interactions with the children. Supervision and staff child ratios were maintained during today’s visit. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Permit restrictions were met. I met with Ms.Intriago to review her CPR/FA certification. She completed the on-line class on January 23, 2025. She has not completed the skills test and does not have current CPR/FA certification. I monitored each room for storage of hazardous materials. In Space B5, I observed bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, I observed pressurized fun string on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, I observed hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. In B4, I observed tiles and holes repaired and painted in the bathrooms. In Space B5 I observed C In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. In Space B5 I observed broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. In Spaces B3 and B5 I observed water-stained tiles had been replaced. I spoke with Ms. Koren McClellan while monitoring Space B4 regarding the reason for the visit and reviewed the violations from the December 2, 2024, visit. I requested Ms. McClellan sign the Visit Summary in Ms. Clark’s absence. I reviewed the current staff and training worksheets. Ms. Amy Clark has a qualifying letter on file that expired December 9, 2024. I checked ABCMS to verify status for Amy Elizabeth Bristoll Clark. The determination states qualified-expired and the history shows the application started on December 17, 2024, and In Process. The following violations cited December 2, 2024, during the Annual Compliance Visit were monitored for compliance during this visit: Item # 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water-stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. This item is considered corrected. Item # 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff, A. Clark, has an expired letter dated 12/9/24. This is a repeat violation. Item # 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current First Aid certification on file. Item # 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. This is a repeat violation. The employee completed the online class on January 23, 2025 and has not completed the skills test. The employee does not have a current CPR certification on file Item # 1867 The depth of the loose surface was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. This item was corrected 12/20/2024. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In Space B5 there is broken tile around a loose drain on the floor in the bathroom creating a safety hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. bulk hand soap, fresh scent shampoo, and hand wipes stating keep out of reach of children stored lower than five feet and accessible to children. In B5, pressurized fun string was on a shelf accessible to children. In Space B4, hand soap stating to keep out of reach of children on the counter by the sink and an unlocked cabinet with three (3) Clorox hand wipes and Lysol in an unlocked cabinet on the lower shelf accessible to children. .2820(b) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One (1) staff , A. Clark, has expired qualifying letter on file dated December 10, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid certification card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One(1) staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR certification card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, A. Clark did not have a current CBC letter on file. The letter expired 12/10/2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 20, 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 that 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. Please email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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. Administrative Action requirements can be found in 10A NCAC 09.2200. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION We discussed that administrative action would follow due to repeated violations. Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed. (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). We discussed that Ms. Clark's last day in the classroom was February 5, 2025 and that she can't return to the classroom with children present until the CBC Qualifying Letter is approved and current. The rules can be reviewed here: 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS and G. S.110-90.2. Mandatory child care providers' criminal history checks. We discussed storage of hazardous materials as follows: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 12/2/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 352 Time In: 10:03 AM Time Out: 03:55 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. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. The 18-month compliance history prior to today's visit was 91%. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. Karen McClellan, Lead Teacher greeted me and stated the Amy Clark, Lead Teacher is the contact for licensing. I introduced myself to Ms. Clark and she assisted me by providing a licensing notebook and staff training folders. I monitored all classrooms, observed large group activities, teacher directed activities, center time, individual teaching, routines, lunch transition, and rest time transition. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. In B5 I observed the refrigerator temperature at 50 degrees, a bottle of hand sanitizer stored lower than five feet in the emergency medical bag, and stained ceiling tiles. I observed all water bottles labeled and dated. I monitored B3 and observed children preparing for lunch and engaged in small group activities. I observed an individual teacher directed activity led by a support staff member, A. Intriago. She and the Lead Teacher explained that Ms. Intriago is dedicated to assist with IEP’s for exceptional children enrolled in the program. Ms. Clark had asked me about the rules regarding the CBC qualifying letter and requirements for staff records when she provided the staff notebook and folder to me because she had a folder for Ms. Intriago with no documents. She shared that Ms. Intriago works with all the children and assists with monitoring the children at rest time. and she stated that there was some confusion regarding the requirements however, she would work through the process to get her qualified. I monitored B4 as the children transitioned to the cafeteria and during lunch, I observed the children exercising and one child working with a CMS Occupational Therapist. I observed A power strip with uncovered plugs accessible to children near the computer, hand sanitizer stored less than five feet on the cubbies and a strong urine smell in the bathroom. The dry wall was cracked behind the toilet with a hole next to the baseboard. After lunch, I monitored B5. I observed a book being read to the children before transition to center then rest time. There were adequate and age-appropriate materials supporting the lesson plan for the day. I monitored three outdoor play areas, two with stationary equipment and one grassy area outside the classroom. The fenced in playground closest to the classrooms did not have the required depth of mulch. Currently, there are two children enrolled required to have medication administered. The nurse keeps all of the required paperwork and the medications in her office. I reviewed the licensing notebook to review program records, staff files and the Public-School off-site verification forms for children’s records. A sampling of children’s records were monitored. Two (2) children did not have hearing screening, and three (3) children did not have dental screening on file. Staff and training worksheets, the Public-School off-site verification, and in service training hours for staff was not completed. I met with Ms. Clark to explain how to complete the worksheet and update training record. I will conduct a follow up visit to review all staff records. I was introduced to the Assistant Principal, Ms. Jean Konzelmann to discuss the CBC qualifying letter requirement for anyone working or substituting in the classroom. She shared with me that all staff at this school are required to have the DCDEE qualifying letter and will remove Ms. Intriago from the classroom. Program records were reviewed. The last fire inspection was conducted June 13, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 9, 2024. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was in compliance. I observed a first aid poster, current EMC plan, activity plans, daily schedule, summary of the NC Child Care Law and emergency exit route posted, and allergies posted on each bulletin board in each classroom. The current license was also observed posted, with all permit restrictions meeting compliance. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The off-site-verification form for staff was not completed. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The temperature in the refrigerator in space B5 was observed at fifty (50) degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A power strip with uncovered outlets was accessible to children in space B4. An outlet was observed uncovered in the cozy area in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In B3 an aerosol disinfectant spray was observed stored unlocked and Sani-Tyze cleaner was observed stored less than five feet. In spaces B4 and B5 hand sanitizer was observed stored less than five (5) feet accessible to children. .2820(b) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. HQ on file for staff were not completed within the annual timeframe. The forms were dated December 2, 2024. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff, Aisha Intriago did not have a current DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, Aisha Intriago, did not have a DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member hired 8/26/24 did not complete the training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 16, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. A follow up visit will be completed within five (5) business days to monitor staff records Mail or email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant 8801 Crosstimbers Drive Charlotte. NC 28215 Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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: Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. Site Administrator: We discussed requirements for site administrator. I spoke with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor and determined Ms. Konzelmann should continue to be listed as Administrator on the Staff and Training Worksheet. I will get clarification regarding her training requirements. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) ABCMS (Criminal Background System) Please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/Criminal-Background-Check-Unit/Basic-Information to access instructions for obtaining the DCDEE CBC qualifying letter. Ms. Intriago cannot work in the NC Pre-K program until she has the qualifying letter on file. Additionally, 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 12/2/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 352 Time In: 10:03 AM Time Out: 03:55 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. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. The 18-month compliance history prior to today's visit was 91%. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. Karen McClellan, Lead Teacher greeted me and stated the Amy Clark, Lead Teacher is the contact for licensing. I introduced myself to Ms. Clark and she assisted me by providing a licensing notebook and staff training folders. I monitored all classrooms, observed large group activities, teacher directed activities, center time, individual teaching, routines, lunch transition, and rest time transition. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. In B5 I observed the refrigerator temperature at 50 degrees, a bottle of hand sanitizer stored lower than five feet in the emergency medical bag, and stained ceiling tiles. I observed all water bottles labeled and dated. I monitored B3 and observed children preparing for lunch and engaged in small group activities. I observed an individual teacher directed activity led by a support staff member, A. Intriago. She and the Lead Teacher explained that Ms. Intriago is dedicated to assist with IEP’s for exceptional children enrolled in the program. Ms. Clark had asked me about the rules regarding the CBC qualifying letter and requirements for staff records when she provided the staff notebook and folder to me because she had a folder for Ms. Intriago with no documents. She shared that Ms. Intriago works with all the children and assists with monitoring the children at rest time. and she stated that there was some confusion regarding the requirements however, she would work through the process to get her qualified. I monitored B4 as the children transitioned to the cafeteria and during lunch, I observed the children exercising and one child working with a CMS Occupational Therapist. I observed A power strip with uncovered plugs accessible to children near the computer, hand sanitizer stored less than five feet on the cubbies and a strong urine smell in the bathroom. The dry wall was cracked behind the toilet with a hole next to the baseboard. After lunch, I monitored B5. I observed a book being read to the children before transition to center then rest time. There were adequate and age-appropriate materials supporting the lesson plan for the day. I monitored three outdoor play areas, two with stationary equipment and one grassy area outside the classroom. The fenced in playground closest to the classrooms did not have the required depth of mulch. Currently, there are two children enrolled required to have medication administered. The nurse keeps all of the required paperwork and the medications in her office. I reviewed the licensing notebook to review program records, staff files and the Public-School off-site verification forms for children’s records. A sampling of children’s records were monitored. Two (2) children did not have hearing screening, and three (3) children did not have dental screening on file. Staff and training worksheets, the Public-School off-site verification, and in service training hours for staff was not completed. I met with Ms. Clark to explain how to complete the worksheet and update training record. I will conduct a follow up visit to review all staff records. I was introduced to the Assistant Principal, Ms. Jean Konzelmann to discuss the CBC qualifying letter requirement for anyone working or substituting in the classroom. She shared with me that all staff at this school are required to have the DCDEE qualifying letter and will remove Ms. Intriago from the classroom. Program records were reviewed. The last fire inspection was conducted June 13, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 9, 2024. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was in compliance. I observed a first aid poster, current EMC plan, activity plans, daily schedule, summary of the NC Child Care Law and emergency exit route posted, and allergies posted on each bulletin board in each classroom. The current license was also observed posted, with all permit restrictions meeting compliance. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The off-site-verification form for staff was not completed. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The temperature in the refrigerator in space B5 was observed at fifty (50) degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A power strip with uncovered outlets was accessible to children in space B4. An outlet was observed uncovered in the cozy area in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In B3 an aerosol disinfectant spray was observed stored unlocked and Sani-Tyze cleaner was observed stored less than five feet. In spaces B4 and B5 hand sanitizer was observed stored less than five (5) feet accessible to children. .2820(b) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. HQ on file for staff were not completed within the annual timeframe. The forms were dated December 2, 2024. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff, Aisha Intriago did not have a current DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, Aisha Intriago, did not have a DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member hired 8/26/24 did not complete the training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 16, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. A follow up visit will be completed within five (5) business days to monitor staff records Mail or email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant 8801 Crosstimbers Drive Charlotte. NC 28215 Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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: Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. Site Administrator: We discussed requirements for site administrator. I spoke with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor and determined Ms. Konzelmann should continue to be listed as Administrator on the Staff and Training Worksheet. I will get clarification regarding her training requirements. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) ABCMS (Criminal Background System) Please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/Criminal-Background-Check-Unit/Basic-Information to access instructions for obtaining the DCDEE CBC qualifying letter. Ms. Intriago cannot work in the NC Pre-K program until she has the qualifying letter on file. Additionally, 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 12/2/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 352 Time In: 10:03 AM Time Out: 03:55 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. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. The 18-month compliance history prior to today's visit was 91%. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. Karen McClellan, Lead Teacher greeted me and stated the Amy Clark, Lead Teacher is the contact for licensing. I introduced myself to Ms. Clark and she assisted me by providing a licensing notebook and staff training folders. I monitored all classrooms, observed large group activities, teacher directed activities, center time, individual teaching, routines, lunch transition, and rest time transition. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. In B5 I observed the refrigerator temperature at 50 degrees, a bottle of hand sanitizer stored lower than five feet in the emergency medical bag, and stained ceiling tiles. I observed all water bottles labeled and dated. I monitored B3 and observed children preparing for lunch and engaged in small group activities. I observed an individual teacher directed activity led by a support staff member, A. Intriago. She and the Lead Teacher explained that Ms. Intriago is dedicated to assist with IEP’s for exceptional children enrolled in the program. Ms. Clark had asked me about the rules regarding the CBC qualifying letter and requirements for staff records when she provided the staff notebook and folder to me because she had a folder for Ms. Intriago with no documents. She shared that Ms. Intriago works with all the children and assists with monitoring the children at rest time. and she stated that there was some confusion regarding the requirements however, she would work through the process to get her qualified. I monitored B4 as the children transitioned to the cafeteria and during lunch, I observed the children exercising and one child working with a CMS Occupational Therapist. I observed A power strip with uncovered plugs accessible to children near the computer, hand sanitizer stored less than five feet on the cubbies and a strong urine smell in the bathroom. The dry wall was cracked behind the toilet with a hole next to the baseboard. After lunch, I monitored B5. I observed a book being read to the children before transition to center then rest time. There were adequate and age-appropriate materials supporting the lesson plan for the day. I monitored three outdoor play areas, two with stationary equipment and one grassy area outside the classroom. The fenced in playground closest to the classrooms did not have the required depth of mulch. Currently, there are two children enrolled required to have medication administered. The nurse keeps all of the required paperwork and the medications in her office. I reviewed the licensing notebook to review program records, staff files and the Public-School off-site verification forms for children’s records. A sampling of children’s records were monitored. Two (2) children did not have hearing screening, and three (3) children did not have dental screening on file. Staff and training worksheets, the Public-School off-site verification, and in service training hours for staff was not completed. I met with Ms. Clark to explain how to complete the worksheet and update training record. I will conduct a follow up visit to review all staff records. I was introduced to the Assistant Principal, Ms. Jean Konzelmann to discuss the CBC qualifying letter requirement for anyone working or substituting in the classroom. She shared with me that all staff at this school are required to have the DCDEE qualifying letter and will remove Ms. Intriago from the classroom. Program records were reviewed. The last fire inspection was conducted June 13, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 9, 2024. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was in compliance. I observed a first aid poster, current EMC plan, activity plans, daily schedule, summary of the NC Child Care Law and emergency exit route posted, and allergies posted on each bulletin board in each classroom. The current license was also observed posted, with all permit restrictions meeting compliance. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The off-site-verification form for staff was not completed. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The temperature in the refrigerator in space B5 was observed at fifty (50) degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A power strip with uncovered outlets was accessible to children in space B4. An outlet was observed uncovered in the cozy area in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In B3 an aerosol disinfectant spray was observed stored unlocked and Sani-Tyze cleaner was observed stored less than five feet. In spaces B4 and B5 hand sanitizer was observed stored less than five (5) feet accessible to children. .2820(b) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. HQ on file for staff were not completed within the annual timeframe. The forms were dated December 2, 2024. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff, Aisha Intriago did not have a current DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, Aisha Intriago, did not have a DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member hired 8/26/24 did not complete the training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 16, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. A follow up visit will be completed within five (5) business days to monitor staff records Mail or email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant 8801 Crosstimbers Drive Charlotte. NC 28215 Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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: Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. Site Administrator: We discussed requirements for site administrator. I spoke with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor and determined Ms. Konzelmann should continue to be listed as Administrator on the Staff and Training Worksheet. I will get clarification regarding her training requirements. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) ABCMS (Criminal Background System) Please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/Criminal-Background-Check-Unit/Basic-Information to access instructions for obtaining the DCDEE CBC qualifying letter. Ms. Intriago cannot work in the NC Pre-K program until she has the qualifying letter on file. Additionally, 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 12/2/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 352 Time In: 10:03 AM Time Out: 03:55 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. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. The 18-month compliance history prior to today's visit was 91%. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. Karen McClellan, Lead Teacher greeted me and stated the Amy Clark, Lead Teacher is the contact for licensing. I introduced myself to Ms. Clark and she assisted me by providing a licensing notebook and staff training folders. I monitored all classrooms, observed large group activities, teacher directed activities, center time, individual teaching, routines, lunch transition, and rest time transition. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. In B5 I observed the refrigerator temperature at 50 degrees, a bottle of hand sanitizer stored lower than five feet in the emergency medical bag, and stained ceiling tiles. I observed all water bottles labeled and dated. I monitored B3 and observed children preparing for lunch and engaged in small group activities. I observed an individual teacher directed activity led by a support staff member, A. Intriago. She and the Lead Teacher explained that Ms. Intriago is dedicated to assist with IEP’s for exceptional children enrolled in the program. Ms. Clark had asked me about the rules regarding the CBC qualifying letter and requirements for staff records when she provided the staff notebook and folder to me because she had a folder for Ms. Intriago with no documents. She shared that Ms. Intriago works with all the children and assists with monitoring the children at rest time. and she stated that there was some confusion regarding the requirements however, she would work through the process to get her qualified. I monitored B4 as the children transitioned to the cafeteria and during lunch, I observed the children exercising and one child working with a CMS Occupational Therapist. I observed A power strip with uncovered plugs accessible to children near the computer, hand sanitizer stored less than five feet on the cubbies and a strong urine smell in the bathroom. The dry wall was cracked behind the toilet with a hole next to the baseboard. After lunch, I monitored B5. I observed a book being read to the children before transition to center then rest time. There were adequate and age-appropriate materials supporting the lesson plan for the day. I monitored three outdoor play areas, two with stationary equipment and one grassy area outside the classroom. The fenced in playground closest to the classrooms did not have the required depth of mulch. Currently, there are two children enrolled required to have medication administered. The nurse keeps all of the required paperwork and the medications in her office. I reviewed the licensing notebook to review program records, staff files and the Public-School off-site verification forms for children’s records. A sampling of children’s records were monitored. Two (2) children did not have hearing screening, and three (3) children did not have dental screening on file. Staff and training worksheets, the Public-School off-site verification, and in service training hours for staff was not completed. I met with Ms. Clark to explain how to complete the worksheet and update training record. I will conduct a follow up visit to review all staff records. I was introduced to the Assistant Principal, Ms. Jean Konzelmann to discuss the CBC qualifying letter requirement for anyone working or substituting in the classroom. She shared with me that all staff at this school are required to have the DCDEE qualifying letter and will remove Ms. Intriago from the classroom. Program records were reviewed. The last fire inspection was conducted June 13, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 9, 2024. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was in compliance. I observed a first aid poster, current EMC plan, activity plans, daily schedule, summary of the NC Child Care Law and emergency exit route posted, and allergies posted on each bulletin board in each classroom. The current license was also observed posted, with all permit restrictions meeting compliance. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The off-site-verification form for staff was not completed. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The temperature in the refrigerator in space B5 was observed at fifty (50) degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A power strip with uncovered outlets was accessible to children in space B4. An outlet was observed uncovered in the cozy area in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In B3 an aerosol disinfectant spray was observed stored unlocked and Sani-Tyze cleaner was observed stored less than five feet. In spaces B4 and B5 hand sanitizer was observed stored less than five (5) feet accessible to children. .2820(b) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. HQ on file for staff were not completed within the annual timeframe. The forms were dated December 2, 2024. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff, Aisha Intriago did not have a current DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, Aisha Intriago, did not have a DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member hired 8/26/24 did not complete the training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 16, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. A follow up visit will be completed within five (5) business days to monitor staff records Mail or email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant 8801 Crosstimbers Drive Charlotte. NC 28215 Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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: Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. Site Administrator: We discussed requirements for site administrator. I spoke with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor and determined Ms. Konzelmann should continue to be listed as Administrator on the Staff and Training Worksheet. I will get clarification regarding her training requirements. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) ABCMS (Criminal Background System) Please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/Criminal-Background-Check-Unit/Basic-Information to access instructions for obtaining the DCDEE CBC qualifying letter. Ms. Intriago cannot work in the NC Pre-K program until she has the qualifying letter on file. Additionally, 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. 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: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 12/2/2024 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 352 Time In: 10:03 AM Time Out: 03:55 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. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. The 18-month compliance history prior to today's visit was 91%. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. Karen McClellan, Lead Teacher greeted me and stated the Amy Clark, Lead Teacher is the contact for licensing. I introduced myself to Ms. Clark and she assisted me by providing a licensing notebook and staff training folders. I monitored all classrooms, observed large group activities, teacher directed activities, center time, individual teaching, routines, lunch transition, and rest time transition. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. In B5 I observed the refrigerator temperature at 50 degrees, a bottle of hand sanitizer stored lower than five feet in the emergency medical bag, and stained ceiling tiles. I observed all water bottles labeled and dated. I monitored B3 and observed children preparing for lunch and engaged in small group activities. I observed an individual teacher directed activity led by a support staff member, A. Intriago. She and the Lead Teacher explained that Ms. Intriago is dedicated to assist with IEP’s for exceptional children enrolled in the program. Ms. Clark had asked me about the rules regarding the CBC qualifying letter and requirements for staff records when she provided the staff notebook and folder to me because she had a folder for Ms. Intriago with no documents. She shared that Ms. Intriago works with all the children and assists with monitoring the children at rest time. and she stated that there was some confusion regarding the requirements however, she would work through the process to get her qualified. I monitored B4 as the children transitioned to the cafeteria and during lunch, I observed the children exercising and one child working with a CMS Occupational Therapist. I observed A power strip with uncovered plugs accessible to children near the computer, hand sanitizer stored less than five feet on the cubbies and a strong urine smell in the bathroom. The dry wall was cracked behind the toilet with a hole next to the baseboard. After lunch, I monitored B5. I observed a book being read to the children before transition to center then rest time. There were adequate and age-appropriate materials supporting the lesson plan for the day. I monitored three outdoor play areas, two with stationary equipment and one grassy area outside the classroom. The fenced in playground closest to the classrooms did not have the required depth of mulch. Currently, there are two children enrolled required to have medication administered. The nurse keeps all of the required paperwork and the medications in her office. I reviewed the licensing notebook to review program records, staff files and the Public-School off-site verification forms for children’s records. A sampling of children’s records were monitored. Two (2) children did not have hearing screening, and three (3) children did not have dental screening on file. Staff and training worksheets, the Public-School off-site verification, and in service training hours for staff was not completed. I met with Ms. Clark to explain how to complete the worksheet and update training record. I will conduct a follow up visit to review all staff records. I was introduced to the Assistant Principal, Ms. Jean Konzelmann to discuss the CBC qualifying letter requirement for anyone working or substituting in the classroom. She shared with me that all staff at this school are required to have the DCDEE qualifying letter and will remove Ms. Intriago from the classroom. Program records were reviewed. The last fire inspection was conducted June 13, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 9, 2024. Monthly playground inspections were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The incident log was in compliance. I observed a first aid poster, current EMC plan, activity plans, daily schedule, summary of the NC Child Care Law and emergency exit route posted, and allergies posted on each bulletin board in each classroom. The current license was also observed posted, with all permit restrictions meeting compliance. The following violations were cited: Violation Number Comment Rule 124 The center did not maintain records as required in rule, and/or were not made available to the Division for review. The off-site-verification form for staff was not completed. G.S. 110-91(9); .0304(g); .2318 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The temperature in the refrigerator in space B5 was observed at fifty (50) degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Water stained ceiling tiles were observed in B3 and B5 and a crack with a hole in drywall behind the toilet in space B4 was observed. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A power strip with uncovered outlets was accessible to children in space B4. An outlet was observed uncovered in the cozy area in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In B3 an aerosol disinfectant spray was observed stored unlocked and Sani-Tyze cleaner was observed stored less than five feet. In spaces B4 and B5 hand sanitizer was observed stored less than five (5) feet accessible to children. .2820(b) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. HQ on file for staff were not completed within the annual timeframe. The forms were dated December 2, 2024. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff, Aisha Intriago did not have a current DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current First Aid card on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. one staff member hired 8/26/2024 does not have a current CPR card on file. .1102(d) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member, Aisha Intriago, did not have a DCDEE qualifying letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was compacted and inadequate amount of mulch on the fenced area playground. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One staff member hired 8/26/24 did not complete the training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 16, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. A follow up visit will be completed within five (5) business days to monitor staff records Mail or email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant 8801 Crosstimbers Drive Charlotte. NC 28215 Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. 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: Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. Site Administrator: We discussed requirements for site administrator. I spoke with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor and determined Ms. Konzelmann should continue to be listed as Administrator on the Staff and Training Worksheet. I will get clarification regarding her training requirements. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Additionally we have resources available specific to NC Pre-K at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/North-Carolina-Pre-Kindergarten-NC-Pre-K Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) ABCMS (Criminal Background System) Please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/Criminal-Background-Check-Unit/Basic-Information to access instructions for obtaining the DCDEE CBC qualifying letter. Ms. Intriago cannot work in the NC Pre-K program until she has the qualifying letter on file. Additionally, 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) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/14/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 12/14/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. I begin with classroom B4. B4 and B5 rooms were both having outdoor time. I walked outside and observed outdoor playtime. Children had a variety of gross motor material to choose while outdoors. Staff were observed spaced out around the fenced in play area supervising children as they played. I followed B4 group inside. I was provided the licensing notebook to review program records, staff refiles and the Public School off site verification forms for Staff Records and Children’s records. Nine staff have not updated their emergency information since 2022. One staff hired in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety training. She stated she is having trouble with her NCID, I explained that Health and Safety Trainings are offered from a variety of approved trainers, they may charge a fee, I provided some resources in the technical assistance portion of this document. Childrens records have assessments and required screenings. Program records were reviewed. Space B6 did not have a current activity plan posted, the one posted was dated December 4, 2023. It was printed during the visit and posted, the staff explained they usually print their plans had home and had issues with their printer. Information required to be posted was observed posted. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1-24-2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 11-27-23. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. I observed outdoor time, lunch time, hand washing, large group time, center play and rest time during today’s visit. Material and equipment were observed to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. During rest time mats were observed spaced at least 18 inches apart. I observed an outlet uncovered by the sink in space B4 and an outlet uncovered in the block center in B3, both were covered during the visit. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in space B4, B5 and B6. The refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees in Space B5. Currently you are not offering transportation. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Space B6 activity plan posted was dated for the week of December 4, 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. Space B5 refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in Space B4, B5 and B6. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Two outlet were observed uncovered, one in space B4 and one in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Nine staff have not updated their Emergency Information form since 2022. .0701(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff employed in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety trainings within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Compliance Statement Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Denise Addison, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the ,andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before January 9, 2024 (due to winter school break) 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: Staff Records: I asked who was responsible for keeping the licensing notebook up to date. You have been trying to keep it updated but rely on the staff to keep their own files current. I encourage you to put a system in place where one day a month each staff check their file to ensure they have added any trainings they have completed to their file, placing the training certificate in their file and updating their training logs (on-going training log and health and safety training logs) Both logs can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Also checking to see if anything is about to expire and updating anything that is needed. And I encourage you to check it the third Monday of each month to ensure you have the current months playground inspection, if not remind the person responsible for completing the inspection. Check the current staff and training worksheet and update the document if needed, check to make sure the annual fire inspection is valid and remind the front office if it is expiring that you need a copy of the annual inspection to place on file, you have current emergency contact information for all staff and subs. The public school off site verification forms remain current with current staff and children listed. Professional Development: One staff asked me about professional development requirements. You can find that information in Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .3016 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS North Carolina licensed administrators, teachers, and teacher assistants employed by public and nonpublic schools shall participate in professional development consistent with the level of education and type of educator licensure required for employment in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .3011, .3012, and .3013. The policy can be found on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's website at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/profdev/. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson PO Box 49335 Charlotte, NC 28277 Andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .3011 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/14/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 12/14/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. I begin with classroom B4. B4 and B5 rooms were both having outdoor time. I walked outside and observed outdoor playtime. Children had a variety of gross motor material to choose while outdoors. Staff were observed spaced out around the fenced in play area supervising children as they played. I followed B4 group inside. I was provided the licensing notebook to review program records, staff refiles and the Public School off site verification forms for Staff Records and Children’s records. Nine staff have not updated their emergency information since 2022. One staff hired in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety training. She stated she is having trouble with her NCID, I explained that Health and Safety Trainings are offered from a variety of approved trainers, they may charge a fee, I provided some resources in the technical assistance portion of this document. Childrens records have assessments and required screenings. Program records were reviewed. Space B6 did not have a current activity plan posted, the one posted was dated December 4, 2023. It was printed during the visit and posted, the staff explained they usually print their plans had home and had issues with their printer. Information required to be posted was observed posted. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1-24-2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 11-27-23. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. I observed outdoor time, lunch time, hand washing, large group time, center play and rest time during today’s visit. Material and equipment were observed to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. During rest time mats were observed spaced at least 18 inches apart. I observed an outlet uncovered by the sink in space B4 and an outlet uncovered in the block center in B3, both were covered during the visit. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in space B4, B5 and B6. The refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees in Space B5. Currently you are not offering transportation. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Space B6 activity plan posted was dated for the week of December 4, 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. Space B5 refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in Space B4, B5 and B6. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Two outlet were observed uncovered, one in space B4 and one in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Nine staff have not updated their Emergency Information form since 2022. .0701(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff employed in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety trainings within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Compliance Statement Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Denise Addison, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the ,andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before January 9, 2024 (due to winter school break) 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: Staff Records: I asked who was responsible for keeping the licensing notebook up to date. You have been trying to keep it updated but rely on the staff to keep their own files current. I encourage you to put a system in place where one day a month each staff check their file to ensure they have added any trainings they have completed to their file, placing the training certificate in their file and updating their training logs (on-going training log and health and safety training logs) Both logs can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Also checking to see if anything is about to expire and updating anything that is needed. And I encourage you to check it the third Monday of each month to ensure you have the current months playground inspection, if not remind the person responsible for completing the inspection. Check the current staff and training worksheet and update the document if needed, check to make sure the annual fire inspection is valid and remind the front office if it is expiring that you need a copy of the annual inspection to place on file, you have current emergency contact information for all staff and subs. The public school off site verification forms remain current with current staff and children listed. Professional Development: One staff asked me about professional development requirements. You can find that information in Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .3016 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS North Carolina licensed administrators, teachers, and teacher assistants employed by public and nonpublic schools shall participate in professional development consistent with the level of education and type of educator licensure required for employment in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .3011, .3012, and .3013. The policy can be found on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's website at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/profdev/. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson PO Box 49335 Charlotte, NC 28277 Andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .3016 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/14/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 12/14/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. I begin with classroom B4. B4 and B5 rooms were both having outdoor time. I walked outside and observed outdoor playtime. Children had a variety of gross motor material to choose while outdoors. Staff were observed spaced out around the fenced in play area supervising children as they played. I followed B4 group inside. I was provided the licensing notebook to review program records, staff refiles and the Public School off site verification forms for Staff Records and Children’s records. Nine staff have not updated their emergency information since 2022. One staff hired in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety training. She stated she is having trouble with her NCID, I explained that Health and Safety Trainings are offered from a variety of approved trainers, they may charge a fee, I provided some resources in the technical assistance portion of this document. Childrens records have assessments and required screenings. Program records were reviewed. Space B6 did not have a current activity plan posted, the one posted was dated December 4, 2023. It was printed during the visit and posted, the staff explained they usually print their plans had home and had issues with their printer. Information required to be posted was observed posted. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1-24-2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 11-27-23. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. I observed outdoor time, lunch time, hand washing, large group time, center play and rest time during today’s visit. Material and equipment were observed to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. During rest time mats were observed spaced at least 18 inches apart. I observed an outlet uncovered by the sink in space B4 and an outlet uncovered in the block center in B3, both were covered during the visit. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in space B4, B5 and B6. The refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees in Space B5. Currently you are not offering transportation. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Space B6 activity plan posted was dated for the week of December 4, 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. Space B5 refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in Space B4, B5 and B6. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Two outlet were observed uncovered, one in space B4 and one in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Nine staff have not updated their Emergency Information form since 2022. .0701(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff employed in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety trainings within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Compliance Statement Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Denise Addison, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the ,andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before January 9, 2024 (due to winter school break) 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: Staff Records: I asked who was responsible for keeping the licensing notebook up to date. You have been trying to keep it updated but rely on the staff to keep their own files current. I encourage you to put a system in place where one day a month each staff check their file to ensure they have added any trainings they have completed to their file, placing the training certificate in their file and updating their training logs (on-going training log and health and safety training logs) Both logs can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Also checking to see if anything is about to expire and updating anything that is needed. And I encourage you to check it the third Monday of each month to ensure you have the current months playground inspection, if not remind the person responsible for completing the inspection. Check the current staff and training worksheet and update the document if needed, check to make sure the annual fire inspection is valid and remind the front office if it is expiring that you need a copy of the annual inspection to place on file, you have current emergency contact information for all staff and subs. The public school off site verification forms remain current with current staff and children listed. Professional Development: One staff asked me about professional development requirements. You can find that information in Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .3016 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS North Carolina licensed administrators, teachers, and teacher assistants employed by public and nonpublic schools shall participate in professional development consistent with the level of education and type of educator licensure required for employment in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .3011, .3012, and .3013. The policy can be found on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's website at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/profdev/. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson PO Box 49335 Charlotte, NC 28277 Andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: STERLING ELEMENTARY Facility ID: 60003467 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/14/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 12/14/2023 Age: From 4 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to monitor the facility. Upon my arrival I signed in at the front office and let the administration know I was present to monitor the NC Pre K classrooms. I walked down to the four NC Pre K classrooms to monitor. I begin with classroom B4. B4 and B5 rooms were both having outdoor time. I walked outside and observed outdoor playtime. Children had a variety of gross motor material to choose while outdoors. Staff were observed spaced out around the fenced in play area supervising children as they played. I followed B4 group inside. I was provided the licensing notebook to review program records, staff refiles and the Public School off site verification forms for Staff Records and Children’s records. Nine staff have not updated their emergency information since 2022. One staff hired in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety training. She stated she is having trouble with her NCID, I explained that Health and Safety Trainings are offered from a variety of approved trainers, they may charge a fee, I provided some resources in the technical assistance portion of this document. Childrens records have assessments and required screenings. Program records were reviewed. Space B6 did not have a current activity plan posted, the one posted was dated December 4, 2023. It was printed during the visit and posted, the staff explained they usually print their plans had home and had issues with their printer. Information required to be posted was observed posted. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1-24-2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 11-27-23. While in each classroom I observed staff/child ratio and supervision being maintained. I heard staff using nurturing tones as they spoke with children in their care. I observed outdoor time, lunch time, hand washing, large group time, center play and rest time during today’s visit. Material and equipment were observed to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age range served. The Creative Curriculum and Gold Assessment is followed/used and was evident in how the centers were set up when reviewing the activity plans. During rest time mats were observed spaced at least 18 inches apart. I observed an outlet uncovered by the sink in space B4 and an outlet uncovered in the block center in B3, both were covered during the visit. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in space B4, B5 and B6. The refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees in Space B5. Currently you are not offering transportation. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Space B6 activity plan posted was dated for the week of December 4, 2023. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. Space B5 refrigerator thermometer read 50 degrees. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Ceiling tiles were observed stained in Space B4, B5 and B6. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Two outlet were observed uncovered, one in space B4 and one in Space B3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Nine staff have not updated their Emergency Information form since 2022. .0701(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff employed in August 2022 has not completed the health and safety trainings within the first year of employment. .1102(a) Compliance Statement Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Denise Addison, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the ,andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before January 9, 2024 (due to winter school break) 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: Staff Records: I asked who was responsible for keeping the licensing notebook up to date. You have been trying to keep it updated but rely on the staff to keep their own files current. I encourage you to put a system in place where one day a month each staff check their file to ensure they have added any trainings they have completed to their file, placing the training certificate in their file and updating their training logs (on-going training log and health and safety training logs) Both logs can be found on the DCDEE website under provider documents. Also checking to see if anything is about to expire and updating anything that is needed. And I encourage you to check it the third Monday of each month to ensure you have the current months playground inspection, if not remind the person responsible for completing the inspection. Check the current staff and training worksheet and update the document if needed, check to make sure the annual fire inspection is valid and remind the front office if it is expiring that you need a copy of the annual inspection to place on file, you have current emergency contact information for all staff and subs. The public school off site verification forms remain current with current staff and children listed. Professional Development: One staff asked me about professional development requirements. You can find that information in Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .3016 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS North Carolina licensed administrators, teachers, and teacher assistants employed by public and nonpublic schools shall participate in professional development consistent with the level of education and type of educator licensure required for employment in accordance with 10A NCAC 09 .3011, .3012, and .3013. The policy can be found on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's website at http://www.ncpublicschools.org/profdev/. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson PO Box 49335 Charlotte, NC 28277 Andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times