THE Early Learning Center

10A NCAC 09 .0608 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/28/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 7/28/2025 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of eighty-nine (89) percent prior to today’s visit. The children in space 1 were observed handwashing and preparing for nap; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. I observed the children in space 2, space 3, and space 4 eating lunch and the following lunch items served were noted on the menu: pizza, salad, sweet potatoes, mixed fruit, and milk; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having circle time. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the 2025 Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were current with CPR. First Aid: Staff current First Aid. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. A staff member, C. Hills-Rhodes qualification letter expired March 6, 2025, and a violation was cited. The roster was complete and up to date in ABCMS. Two (2) new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 17, 2025. One (1) violation was cited for new staff files (Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy). Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There was one (1) child with an emergency medication; no other children with medications; no children with allergies. A violation was cited for an expired medication, and a violation was cited for an expired Permission to Administer Medication form. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: The emergency medication was stored properly. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed July 15, 2025 with a "Superior" rating and four (4) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted on February 4, 2025, and approved for day time care only. Four violations (4) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Medication expired June 2025 for a child in space 4 (B.A.). .0803(12) 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). A staff member C. Hills-Rhodes did not complete a CBC prior to the qualification letter expiring March 6, 2025; a new CBC effective June 20, 2025 was completed; a new letter is on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was signed February 17, 2025, for staff member B. Jackson, and the staff member began working with children on January 17, 2025. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication authorization expired for a child (B.A.) in space 4 April 4, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, child care staff must complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check; a valid qualification letter must be on file. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703 (n)&(o); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -New staff members must complete the annual Health Questionnaire annually following the initial medical statement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a)). -Ms. Porter acknowledged that staff member B. Jackson signed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy on February 17, 2025; began employment January 17, 2025. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must be reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be maintained in the staff person's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4)). -Expired medication must be returned to parent. Leftover medicines must be returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication must be discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Permission to administer medication for chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -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 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. -On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. A webinar will be scheduled later this month to share the implementation plan and will also provide resources that can assist you with understanding the new rules. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now, and, if you have not already completed the QRIS survey, we’d love to hear from you. The information you provide will help us know how we can best serve you in preparing for this transition. -Space 4 has planted an indoor garden tomato plants were planted. Staff were informed that the tomato leaves are toxic to children if the leaves are consumed. The staff in space 4 plants are out of reach of children, and staff stated that they plan to send the plants home with the children. A copy of toxic/non-toxic and poisonous plants resource guides were emailed to the director during the visit. -The facility's email is correct as listed in Regulatory, according to Ms. Porter. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/28/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 7/28/2025 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of eighty-nine (89) percent prior to today’s visit. The children in space 1 were observed handwashing and preparing for nap; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. I observed the children in space 2, space 3, and space 4 eating lunch and the following lunch items served were noted on the menu: pizza, salad, sweet potatoes, mixed fruit, and milk; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having circle time. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the 2025 Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were current with CPR. First Aid: Staff current First Aid. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. A staff member, C. Hills-Rhodes qualification letter expired March 6, 2025, and a violation was cited. The roster was complete and up to date in ABCMS. Two (2) new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 17, 2025. One (1) violation was cited for new staff files (Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy). Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There was one (1) child with an emergency medication; no other children with medications; no children with allergies. A violation was cited for an expired medication, and a violation was cited for an expired Permission to Administer Medication form. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: The emergency medication was stored properly. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed July 15, 2025 with a "Superior" rating and four (4) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted on February 4, 2025, and approved for day time care only. Four violations (4) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Medication expired June 2025 for a child in space 4 (B.A.). .0803(12) 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). A staff member C. Hills-Rhodes did not complete a CBC prior to the qualification letter expiring March 6, 2025; a new CBC effective June 20, 2025 was completed; a new letter is on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was signed February 17, 2025, for staff member B. Jackson, and the staff member began working with children on January 17, 2025. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication authorization expired for a child (B.A.) in space 4 April 4, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, child care staff must complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check; a valid qualification letter must be on file. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703 (n)&(o); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -New staff members must complete the annual Health Questionnaire annually following the initial medical statement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a)). -Ms. Porter acknowledged that staff member B. Jackson signed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy on February 17, 2025; began employment January 17, 2025. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must be reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be maintained in the staff person's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4)). -Expired medication must be returned to parent. Leftover medicines must be returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication must be discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Permission to administer medication for chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -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 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. -On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. A webinar will be scheduled later this month to share the implementation plan and will also provide resources that can assist you with understanding the new rules. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now, and, if you have not already completed the QRIS survey, we’d love to hear from you. The information you provide will help us know how we can best serve you in preparing for this transition. -Space 4 has planted an indoor garden tomato plants were planted. Staff were informed that the tomato leaves are toxic to children if the leaves are consumed. The staff in space 4 plants are out of reach of children, and staff stated that they plan to send the plants home with the children. A copy of toxic/non-toxic and poisonous plants resource guides were emailed to the director during the visit. -The facility's email is correct as listed in Regulatory, according to Ms. Porter. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/28/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 7/28/2025 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of eighty-nine (89) percent prior to today’s visit. The children in space 1 were observed handwashing and preparing for nap; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. I observed the children in space 2, space 3, and space 4 eating lunch and the following lunch items served were noted on the menu: pizza, salad, sweet potatoes, mixed fruit, and milk; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having circle time. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the 2025 Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were current with CPR. First Aid: Staff current First Aid. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. A staff member, C. Hills-Rhodes qualification letter expired March 6, 2025, and a violation was cited. The roster was complete and up to date in ABCMS. Two (2) new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 17, 2025. One (1) violation was cited for new staff files (Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy). Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There was one (1) child with an emergency medication; no other children with medications; no children with allergies. A violation was cited for an expired medication, and a violation was cited for an expired Permission to Administer Medication form. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: The emergency medication was stored properly. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed July 15, 2025 with a "Superior" rating and four (4) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted on February 4, 2025, and approved for day time care only. Four violations (4) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Medication expired June 2025 for a child in space 4 (B.A.). .0803(12) 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). A staff member C. Hills-Rhodes did not complete a CBC prior to the qualification letter expiring March 6, 2025; a new CBC effective June 20, 2025 was completed; a new letter is on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was signed February 17, 2025, for staff member B. Jackson, and the staff member began working with children on January 17, 2025. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication authorization expired for a child (B.A.) in space 4 April 4, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, child care staff must complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check; a valid qualification letter must be on file. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703 (n)&(o); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -New staff members must complete the annual Health Questionnaire annually following the initial medical statement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a)). -Ms. Porter acknowledged that staff member B. Jackson signed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy on February 17, 2025; began employment January 17, 2025. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must be reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be maintained in the staff person's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4)). -Expired medication must be returned to parent. Leftover medicines must be returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication must be discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Permission to administer medication for chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -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 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. -On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. A webinar will be scheduled later this month to share the implementation plan and will also provide resources that can assist you with understanding the new rules. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now, and, if you have not already completed the QRIS survey, we’d love to hear from you. The information you provide will help us know how we can best serve you in preparing for this transition. -Space 4 has planted an indoor garden tomato plants were planted. Staff were informed that the tomato leaves are toxic to children if the leaves are consumed. The staff in space 4 plants are out of reach of children, and staff stated that they plan to send the plants home with the children. A copy of toxic/non-toxic and poisonous plants resource guides were emailed to the director during the visit. -The facility's email is correct as listed in Regulatory, according to Ms. Porter. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/28/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 7/28/2025 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of eighty-nine (89) percent prior to today’s visit. The children in space 1 were observed handwashing and preparing for nap; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. I observed the children in space 2, space 3, and space 4 eating lunch and the following lunch items served were noted on the menu: pizza, salad, sweet potatoes, mixed fruit, and milk; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having circle time. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the 2025 Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were current with CPR. First Aid: Staff current First Aid. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. A staff member, C. Hills-Rhodes qualification letter expired March 6, 2025, and a violation was cited. The roster was complete and up to date in ABCMS. Two (2) new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 17, 2025. One (1) violation was cited for new staff files (Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy). Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There was one (1) child with an emergency medication; no other children with medications; no children with allergies. A violation was cited for an expired medication, and a violation was cited for an expired Permission to Administer Medication form. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: The emergency medication was stored properly. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed July 15, 2025 with a "Superior" rating and four (4) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted on February 4, 2025, and approved for day time care only. Four violations (4) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Medication expired June 2025 for a child in space 4 (B.A.). .0803(12) 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). A staff member C. Hills-Rhodes did not complete a CBC prior to the qualification letter expiring March 6, 2025; a new CBC effective June 20, 2025 was completed; a new letter is on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was signed February 17, 2025, for staff member B. Jackson, and the staff member began working with children on January 17, 2025. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication authorization expired for a child (B.A.) in space 4 April 4, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, child care staff must complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check; a valid qualification letter must be on file. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703 (n)&(o); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -New staff members must complete the annual Health Questionnaire annually following the initial medical statement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a)). -Ms. Porter acknowledged that staff member B. Jackson signed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy on February 17, 2025; began employment January 17, 2025. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must be reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be maintained in the staff person's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4)). -Expired medication must be returned to parent. Leftover medicines must be returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication must be discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Permission to administer medication for chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -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 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. -On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. A webinar will be scheduled later this month to share the implementation plan and will also provide resources that can assist you with understanding the new rules. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now, and, if you have not already completed the QRIS survey, we’d love to hear from you. The information you provide will help us know how we can best serve you in preparing for this transition. -Space 4 has planted an indoor garden tomato plants were planted. Staff were informed that the tomato leaves are toxic to children if the leaves are consumed. The staff in space 4 plants are out of reach of children, and staff stated that they plan to send the plants home with the children. A copy of toxic/non-toxic and poisonous plants resource guides were emailed to the director during the visit. -The facility's email is correct as listed in Regulatory, according to Ms. Porter. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/28/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 7/28/2025 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of eighty-nine (89) percent prior to today’s visit. The children in space 1 were observed handwashing and preparing for nap; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. I observed the children in space 2, space 3, and space 4 eating lunch and the following lunch items served were noted on the menu: pizza, salad, sweet potatoes, mixed fruit, and milk; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having circle time. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the 2025 Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were current with CPR. First Aid: Staff current First Aid. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. A staff member, C. Hills-Rhodes qualification letter expired March 6, 2025, and a violation was cited. The roster was complete and up to date in ABCMS. Two (2) new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 17, 2025. One (1) violation was cited for new staff files (Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy). Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There was one (1) child with an emergency medication; no other children with medications; no children with allergies. A violation was cited for an expired medication, and a violation was cited for an expired Permission to Administer Medication form. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: The emergency medication was stored properly. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed July 15, 2025 with a "Superior" rating and four (4) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted on February 4, 2025, and approved for day time care only. Four violations (4) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Medication expired June 2025 for a child in space 4 (B.A.). .0803(12) 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). A staff member C. Hills-Rhodes did not complete a CBC prior to the qualification letter expiring March 6, 2025; a new CBC effective June 20, 2025 was completed; a new letter is on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was signed February 17, 2025, for staff member B. Jackson, and the staff member began working with children on January 17, 2025. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication authorization expired for a child (B.A.) in space 4 April 4, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, child care staff must complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check; a valid qualification letter must be on file. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703 (n)&(o); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -New staff members must complete the annual Health Questionnaire annually following the initial medical statement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a)). -Ms. Porter acknowledged that staff member B. Jackson signed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy on February 17, 2025; began employment January 17, 2025. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must be reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be maintained in the staff person's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4)). -Expired medication must be returned to parent. Leftover medicines must be returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication must be discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Permission to administer medication for chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -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 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. -On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. A webinar will be scheduled later this month to share the implementation plan and will also provide resources that can assist you with understanding the new rules. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now, and, if you have not already completed the QRIS survey, we’d love to hear from you. The information you provide will help us know how we can best serve you in preparing for this transition. -Space 4 has planted an indoor garden tomato plants were planted. Staff were informed that the tomato leaves are toxic to children if the leaves are consumed. The staff in space 4 plants are out of reach of children, and staff stated that they plan to send the plants home with the children. A copy of toxic/non-toxic and poisonous plants resource guides were emailed to the director during the visit. -The facility's email is correct as listed in Regulatory, according to Ms. Porter. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/28/2025 Number Present: 37 Completed Date: 7/28/2025 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of eighty-nine (89) percent prior to today’s visit. The children in space 1 were observed handwashing and preparing for nap; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. I observed the children in space 2, space 3, and space 4 eating lunch and the following lunch items served were noted on the menu: pizza, salad, sweet potatoes, mixed fruit, and milk; nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with the children and adequate supervision was provided. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having circle time. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the 2025 Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were current with CPR. First Aid: Staff current First Aid. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. A staff member, C. Hills-Rhodes qualification letter expired March 6, 2025, and a violation was cited. The roster was complete and up to date in ABCMS. Two (2) new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 17, 2025. One (1) violation was cited for new staff files (Shaken Baby Head Trauma Policy). Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There was one (1) child with an emergency medication; no other children with medications; no children with allergies. A violation was cited for an expired medication, and a violation was cited for an expired Permission to Administer Medication form. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: The emergency medication was stored properly. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed July 15, 2025 with a "Superior" rating and four (4) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted on February 4, 2025, and approved for day time care only. Four violations (4) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Medication expired June 2025 for a child in space 4 (B.A.). .0803(12) 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). A staff member C. Hills-Rhodes did not complete a CBC prior to the qualification letter expiring March 6, 2025; a new CBC effective June 20, 2025 was completed; a new letter is on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was signed February 17, 2025, for staff member B. Jackson, and the staff member began working with children on January 17, 2025. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication authorization expired for a child (B.A.) in space 4 April 4, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 11, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, child care staff must complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check; a valid qualification letter must be on file. (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703 (n)&(o); G.S. 110-90.2(b)). -New staff members must complete the annual Health Questionnaire annually following the initial medical statement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a)). -Ms. Porter acknowledged that staff member B. Jackson signed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy on February 17, 2025; began employment January 17, 2025. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must be reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information must be maintained in the staff person's file (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(d)(1-4)). -Expired medication must be returned to parent. Leftover medicines must be returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication must be discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(12)). -Permission to administer medication for chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -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 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. -On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. A webinar will be scheduled later this month to share the implementation plan and will also provide resources that can assist you with understanding the new rules. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now, and, if you have not already completed the QRIS survey, we’d love to hear from you. The information you provide will help us know how we can best serve you in preparing for this transition. -Space 4 has planted an indoor garden tomato plants were planted. Staff were informed that the tomato leaves are toxic to children if the leaves are consumed. The staff in space 4 plants are out of reach of children, and staff stated that they plan to send the plants home with the children. A copy of toxic/non-toxic and poisonous plants resource guides were emailed to the director during the visit. -The facility's email is correct as listed in Regulatory, according to Ms. Porter. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/17/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 1/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Director Ms. Pat Porter. Ms. Artasia Porter completed an indoor and outdoor walkthrough of the facility. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued May 30, 2018 earning six (6) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced reduced ratios; meets enhanced space) and one (1) quality point (handbook). The program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum (Teaching Strategies Gold) that addresses the five (5) domains of development. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed January 16, 2025, with a “Provisional” classification and nine (9) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated December 30, 2024; compliance was met. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91) percent as of January 16, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on January 17, 2025, and The Early Learning Center, Inc., was listed as current-active. In space 1, space 2, and space 4 classrooms for Early Head Start was observed with no children present. I observed the children in space 3 preparing for outdoor play; adequate supervision was provided. The children in space space 5 and space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan; compliance was met. The center has two (2) NC Pre-K Classrooms. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the child care rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. The current NC Pre-K staff are lead teachers, Ms. C. Branch and Ms. M. Bost and teachers, Ms. K. Davis and Ms. D. Blake. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and P.A.S.T. were used to complete screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress. The checkpoint assessments are conducted three (3) times per year: at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. The first day of school was August 27, 2024. The classroom operates from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Parent conferences are held once per year and as needed per year. You stated that you use the Class Dojo app and a newsletter to communicate with parents. In addition, a daily report is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders; daily health checks are completed. Ten (10) percent of children's files were viewed. A violation was cited for the discipline policy, a violation was cited for the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. Staff files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean. A violation was cited for the gate in the outdoor play area. The center does not provide transportation. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. The back gate to the playground for Early Head Start was less than 3 1/2 and could cause an entrapment. .0605(g) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The discipline statement did not include the enrollment date for child (K.M.) and (A.L.). .1804(b) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the enrollment date for child (T.C.). .0608(b) 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 January 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The back gate to the Early Head Start Playground is more than three (3) and a half (1/2)inches, and must be repaired (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(d)); was repaired during the visit. -The signed discipline policy must include the child's date of enrollment at the center (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1804(b)). -The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must include the following: child's name, the date the child first attended the center, the date the operator's policy was given and explained to the parent, parent's name, and the parent's signature, and the date the parent signed the acknowledgement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once; waiting for results of testing. -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 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. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. - 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 .0608 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/17/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 1/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Director Ms. Pat Porter. Ms. Artasia Porter completed an indoor and outdoor walkthrough of the facility. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued May 30, 2018 earning six (6) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced reduced ratios; meets enhanced space) and one (1) quality point (handbook). The program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum (Teaching Strategies Gold) that addresses the five (5) domains of development. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed January 16, 2025, with a “Provisional” classification and nine (9) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated December 30, 2024; compliance was met. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91) percent as of January 16, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on January 17, 2025, and The Early Learning Center, Inc., was listed as current-active. In space 1, space 2, and space 4 classrooms for Early Head Start was observed with no children present. I observed the children in space 3 preparing for outdoor play; adequate supervision was provided. The children in space space 5 and space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan; compliance was met. The center has two (2) NC Pre-K Classrooms. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the child care rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. The current NC Pre-K staff are lead teachers, Ms. C. Branch and Ms. M. Bost and teachers, Ms. K. Davis and Ms. D. Blake. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and P.A.S.T. were used to complete screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress. The checkpoint assessments are conducted three (3) times per year: at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. The first day of school was August 27, 2024. The classroom operates from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Parent conferences are held once per year and as needed per year. You stated that you use the Class Dojo app and a newsletter to communicate with parents. In addition, a daily report is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders; daily health checks are completed. Ten (10) percent of children's files were viewed. A violation was cited for the discipline policy, a violation was cited for the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. Staff files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean. A violation was cited for the gate in the outdoor play area. The center does not provide transportation. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. The back gate to the playground for Early Head Start was less than 3 1/2 and could cause an entrapment. .0605(g) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The discipline statement did not include the enrollment date for child (K.M.) and (A.L.). .1804(b) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the enrollment date for child (T.C.). .0608(b) 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 January 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The back gate to the Early Head Start Playground is more than three (3) and a half (1/2)inches, and must be repaired (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(d)); was repaired during the visit. -The signed discipline policy must include the child's date of enrollment at the center (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1804(b)). -The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must include the following: child's name, the date the child first attended the center, the date the operator's policy was given and explained to the parent, parent's name, and the parent's signature, and the date the parent signed the acknowledgement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once; waiting for results of testing. -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 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. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. - 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 .1725 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/17/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 1/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Director Ms. Pat Porter. Ms. Artasia Porter completed an indoor and outdoor walkthrough of the facility. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued May 30, 2018 earning six (6) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced reduced ratios; meets enhanced space) and one (1) quality point (handbook). The program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum (Teaching Strategies Gold) that addresses the five (5) domains of development. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed January 16, 2025, with a “Provisional” classification and nine (9) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated December 30, 2024; compliance was met. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91) percent as of January 16, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on January 17, 2025, and The Early Learning Center, Inc., was listed as current-active. In space 1, space 2, and space 4 classrooms for Early Head Start was observed with no children present. I observed the children in space 3 preparing for outdoor play; adequate supervision was provided. The children in space space 5 and space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan; compliance was met. The center has two (2) NC Pre-K Classrooms. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the child care rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. The current NC Pre-K staff are lead teachers, Ms. C. Branch and Ms. M. Bost and teachers, Ms. K. Davis and Ms. D. Blake. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and P.A.S.T. were used to complete screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress. The checkpoint assessments are conducted three (3) times per year: at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. The first day of school was August 27, 2024. The classroom operates from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Parent conferences are held once per year and as needed per year. You stated that you use the Class Dojo app and a newsletter to communicate with parents. In addition, a daily report is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders; daily health checks are completed. Ten (10) percent of children's files were viewed. A violation was cited for the discipline policy, a violation was cited for the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. Staff files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean. A violation was cited for the gate in the outdoor play area. The center does not provide transportation. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. The back gate to the playground for Early Head Start was less than 3 1/2 and could cause an entrapment. .0605(g) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The discipline statement did not include the enrollment date for child (K.M.) and (A.L.). .1804(b) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the enrollment date for child (T.C.). .0608(b) 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 January 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The back gate to the Early Head Start Playground is more than three (3) and a half (1/2)inches, and must be repaired (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(d)); was repaired during the visit. -The signed discipline policy must include the child's date of enrollment at the center (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1804(b)). -The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must include the following: child's name, the date the child first attended the center, the date the operator's policy was given and explained to the parent, parent's name, and the parent's signature, and the date the parent signed the acknowledgement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once; waiting for results of testing. -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 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. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. - 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 .1804 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/17/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 1/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Director Ms. Pat Porter. Ms. Artasia Porter completed an indoor and outdoor walkthrough of the facility. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued May 30, 2018 earning six (6) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced reduced ratios; meets enhanced space) and one (1) quality point (handbook). The program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum (Teaching Strategies Gold) that addresses the five (5) domains of development. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed January 16, 2025, with a “Provisional” classification and nine (9) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated December 30, 2024; compliance was met. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91) percent as of January 16, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on January 17, 2025, and The Early Learning Center, Inc., was listed as current-active. In space 1, space 2, and space 4 classrooms for Early Head Start was observed with no children present. I observed the children in space 3 preparing for outdoor play; adequate supervision was provided. The children in space space 5 and space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan; compliance was met. The center has two (2) NC Pre-K Classrooms. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the child care rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. The current NC Pre-K staff are lead teachers, Ms. C. Branch and Ms. M. Bost and teachers, Ms. K. Davis and Ms. D. Blake. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and P.A.S.T. were used to complete screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress. The checkpoint assessments are conducted three (3) times per year: at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. The first day of school was August 27, 2024. The classroom operates from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Parent conferences are held once per year and as needed per year. You stated that you use the Class Dojo app and a newsletter to communicate with parents. In addition, a daily report is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders; daily health checks are completed. Ten (10) percent of children's files were viewed. A violation was cited for the discipline policy, a violation was cited for the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. Staff files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean. A violation was cited for the gate in the outdoor play area. The center does not provide transportation. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. The back gate to the playground for Early Head Start was less than 3 1/2 and could cause an entrapment. .0605(g) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The discipline statement did not include the enrollment date for child (K.M.) and (A.L.). .1804(b) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the enrollment date for child (T.C.). .0608(b) 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 January 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The back gate to the Early Head Start Playground is more than three (3) and a half (1/2)inches, and must be repaired (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(d)); was repaired during the visit. -The signed discipline policy must include the child's date of enrollment at the center (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1804(b)). -The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must include the following: child's name, the date the child first attended the center, the date the operator's policy was given and explained to the parent, parent's name, and the parent's signature, and the date the parent signed the acknowledgement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once; waiting for results of testing. -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 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. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. - 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 .3009 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/17/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 1/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Director Ms. Pat Porter. Ms. Artasia Porter completed an indoor and outdoor walkthrough of the facility. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued May 30, 2018 earning six (6) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced reduced ratios; meets enhanced space) and one (1) quality point (handbook). The program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum (Teaching Strategies Gold) that addresses the five (5) domains of development. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed January 16, 2025, with a “Provisional” classification and nine (9) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated December 30, 2024; compliance was met. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91) percent as of January 16, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on January 17, 2025, and The Early Learning Center, Inc., was listed as current-active. In space 1, space 2, and space 4 classrooms for Early Head Start was observed with no children present. I observed the children in space 3 preparing for outdoor play; adequate supervision was provided. The children in space space 5 and space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan; compliance was met. The center has two (2) NC Pre-K Classrooms. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the child care rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. The current NC Pre-K staff are lead teachers, Ms. C. Branch and Ms. M. Bost and teachers, Ms. K. Davis and Ms. D. Blake. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and P.A.S.T. were used to complete screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress. The checkpoint assessments are conducted three (3) times per year: at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. The first day of school was August 27, 2024. The classroom operates from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Parent conferences are held once per year and as needed per year. You stated that you use the Class Dojo app and a newsletter to communicate with parents. In addition, a daily report is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders; daily health checks are completed. Ten (10) percent of children's files were viewed. A violation was cited for the discipline policy, a violation was cited for the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. Staff files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean. A violation was cited for the gate in the outdoor play area. The center does not provide transportation. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. The back gate to the playground for Early Head Start was less than 3 1/2 and could cause an entrapment. .0605(g) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The discipline statement did not include the enrollment date for child (K.M.) and (A.L.). .1804(b) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the enrollment date for child (T.C.). .0608(b) 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 January 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The back gate to the Early Head Start Playground is more than three (3) and a half (1/2)inches, and must be repaired (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(d)); was repaired during the visit. -The signed discipline policy must include the child's date of enrollment at the center (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1804(b)). -The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must include the following: child's name, the date the child first attended the center, the date the operator's policy was given and explained to the parent, parent's name, and the parent's signature, and the date the parent signed the acknowledgement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once; waiting for results of testing. -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 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. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. - 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/17/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 1/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Director Ms. Pat Porter. Ms. Artasia Porter completed an indoor and outdoor walkthrough of the facility. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued May 30, 2018 earning six (6) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced reduced ratios; meets enhanced space) and one (1) quality point (handbook). The program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum (Teaching Strategies Gold) that addresses the five (5) domains of development. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed January 16, 2025, with a “Provisional” classification and nine (9) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated December 30, 2024; compliance was met. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91) percent as of January 16, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on January 17, 2025, and The Early Learning Center, Inc., was listed as current-active. In space 1, space 2, and space 4 classrooms for Early Head Start was observed with no children present. I observed the children in space 3 preparing for outdoor play; adequate supervision was provided. The children in space space 5 and space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan; compliance was met. The center has two (2) NC Pre-K Classrooms. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the child care rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. The current NC Pre-K staff are lead teachers, Ms. C. Branch and Ms. M. Bost and teachers, Ms. K. Davis and Ms. D. Blake. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and P.A.S.T. were used to complete screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress. The checkpoint assessments are conducted three (3) times per year: at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. The first day of school was August 27, 2024. The classroom operates from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Parent conferences are held once per year and as needed per year. You stated that you use the Class Dojo app and a newsletter to communicate with parents. In addition, a daily report is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders; daily health checks are completed. Ten (10) percent of children's files were viewed. A violation was cited for the discipline policy, a violation was cited for the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. Staff files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean. A violation was cited for the gate in the outdoor play area. The center does not provide transportation. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. The back gate to the playground for Early Head Start was less than 3 1/2 and could cause an entrapment. .0605(g) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The discipline statement did not include the enrollment date for child (K.M.) and (A.L.). .1804(b) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the enrollment date for child (T.C.). .0608(b) 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 January 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The back gate to the Early Head Start Playground is more than three (3) and a half (1/2)inches, and must be repaired (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(d)); was repaired during the visit. -The signed discipline policy must include the child's date of enrollment at the center (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1804(b)). -The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must include the following: child's name, the date the child first attended the center, the date the operator's policy was given and explained to the parent, parent's name, and the parent's signature, and the date the parent signed the acknowledgement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once; waiting for results of testing. -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 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. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. - 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/17/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 1/17/2025 Age: From 3 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by Director Ms. Pat Porter. Ms. Artasia Porter completed an indoor and outdoor walkthrough of the facility. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued May 30, 2018 earning six (6) points in the education component, seven (7) points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced reduced ratios; meets enhanced space) and one (1) quality point (handbook). The program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum (Teaching Strategies Gold) that addresses the five (5) domains of development. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed January 16, 2025, with a “Provisional” classification and nine (9) demerits. The last fire inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated December 30, 2024; compliance was met. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-one (91) percent as of January 16, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on January 17, 2025, and The Early Learning Center, Inc., was listed as current-active. In space 1, space 2, and space 4 classrooms for Early Head Start was observed with no children present. I observed the children in space 3 preparing for outdoor play; adequate supervision was provided. The children in space space 5 and space 6 were observed having supervised independent play. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided after the visit. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and the Emergency Medical Care Plan; compliance was met. The center has two (2) NC Pre-K Classrooms. The NC Pre-K requirements in section .3000 of the child care rules were monitored for compliance. The NC Pre-K Program Site Monitoring Tool was reviewed today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .3009 were verified in compliance. The current NC Pre-K staff are lead teachers, Ms. C. Branch and Ms. M. Bost and teachers, Ms. K. Davis and Ms. D. Blake. A selection of files were monitored for completed health assessments and developmental screenings. Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and P.A.S.T. were used to complete screenings. The center uses the Teaching Strategies Gold instrument to document evidence of children's ongoing progress. The checkpoint assessments are conducted three (3) times per year: at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. The first day of school was August 27, 2024. The classroom operates from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Parent conferences are held once per year and as needed per year. You stated that you use the Class Dojo app and a newsletter to communicate with parents. In addition, a daily report is sent home to the parents which includes any information about the child’s day and any reminders; daily health checks are completed. Ten (10) percent of children's files were viewed. A violation was cited for the discipline policy, a violation was cited for the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. Staff files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean. A violation was cited for the gate in the outdoor play area. The center does not provide transportation. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Openings in equipment, steps, decks, handrails, and fencing were not less than 3 1/2 inches or greater than 9 inches. The back gate to the playground for Early Head Start was less than 3 1/2 and could cause an entrapment. .0605(g) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. The discipline statement did not include the enrollment date for child (K.M.) and (A.L.). .1804(b) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy did not include the enrollment date for child (T.C.). .0608(b) 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 January 31, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The back gate to the Early Head Start Playground is more than three (3) and a half (1/2)inches, and must be repaired (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0601(d)); was repaired during the visit. -The signed discipline policy must include the child's date of enrollment at the center (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1804(b)). -The Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy must include the following: child's name, the date the child first attended the center, the date the operator's policy was given and explained to the parent, parent's name, and the parent's signature, and the date the parent signed the acknowledgement (Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0608(b)). -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • 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. -The Carolina Water for Kids program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once; waiting for results of testing. -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 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. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. - If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 1 To 8 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of ninety-one (91) percent prior to today’s visit. During the visit, I observed children in space 1, space 2, and space 4 were observed eating lunch. The items served for lunch were listed on the menu: chicken strips, salad, peaches, a whole wheat roll, and milk. Space 2 was observed closed during the visit, and in space 3, the children were observed having supervised independent play time. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having supervised outdoor play. No new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 26, 2024. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were not current with CPR; a violation was cited. First Aid: Staff were not current First Aid; a violation was cited. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There are no children with medication; no children with allergies. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: There are no medication stored. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a "Superior" rating and twelve (12) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and approved for day time care only. A violation was cited for the Fire Inspection Report. Three (3) violations were cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The Fire Inspection Report was not submitted within seven (7) days. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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. Staff (K.D.) First Aid expired April 2024. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff K.D. CPR training expired April 2024. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -First Aid must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(c). -CPR training must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(d). -The Fire Inspection Report must be submitted to the consultant within one (1) week of the inspection. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0304(a). -All North Carolina licensed child care centers and family child care homes must enroll and complete the enrollment surveys for lead-based paint and asbestos of the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program by May 1, 2024. -The Clean Water for Carolina Kids™ program expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program to help address the legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards where North Carolina children learn and play. Training is provided to help child care facilities complete the registration process, and the enrollment surveys can be completed in approximately 15 minutes per section. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Steadman stated that the facility's lead and asbestos was tested in April 2024. -To Get Started: Facilities should register for the required pre-enrollment webinar at https://bit.ly/3CK- webinar. The webinar will provide information about lead and asbestos hazards, state requirements, personnel and facility information needed for the program, commonly asked questions, and tips for success. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 1 To 8 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of ninety-one (91) percent prior to today’s visit. During the visit, I observed children in space 1, space 2, and space 4 were observed eating lunch. The items served for lunch were listed on the menu: chicken strips, salad, peaches, a whole wheat roll, and milk. Space 2 was observed closed during the visit, and in space 3, the children were observed having supervised independent play time. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having supervised outdoor play. No new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 26, 2024. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were not current with CPR; a violation was cited. First Aid: Staff were not current First Aid; a violation was cited. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There are no children with medication; no children with allergies. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: There are no medication stored. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a "Superior" rating and twelve (12) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and approved for day time care only. A violation was cited for the Fire Inspection Report. Three (3) violations were cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The Fire Inspection Report was not submitted within seven (7) days. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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. Staff (K.D.) First Aid expired April 2024. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff K.D. CPR training expired April 2024. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -First Aid must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(c). -CPR training must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(d). -The Fire Inspection Report must be submitted to the consultant within one (1) week of the inspection. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0304(a). -All North Carolina licensed child care centers and family child care homes must enroll and complete the enrollment surveys for lead-based paint and asbestos of the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program by May 1, 2024. -The Clean Water for Carolina Kids™ program expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program to help address the legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards where North Carolina children learn and play. Training is provided to help child care facilities complete the registration process, and the enrollment surveys can be completed in approximately 15 minutes per section. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Steadman stated that the facility's lead and asbestos was tested in April 2024. -To Get Started: Facilities should register for the required pre-enrollment webinar at https://bit.ly/3CK- webinar. The webinar will provide information about lead and asbestos hazards, state requirements, personnel and facility information needed for the program, commonly asked questions, and tips for success. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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 .1725 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 1 To 8 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of ninety-one (91) percent prior to today’s visit. During the visit, I observed children in space 1, space 2, and space 4 were observed eating lunch. The items served for lunch were listed on the menu: chicken strips, salad, peaches, a whole wheat roll, and milk. Space 2 was observed closed during the visit, and in space 3, the children were observed having supervised independent play time. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having supervised outdoor play. No new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 26, 2024. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were not current with CPR; a violation was cited. First Aid: Staff were not current First Aid; a violation was cited. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There are no children with medication; no children with allergies. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: There are no medication stored. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a "Superior" rating and twelve (12) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and approved for day time care only. A violation was cited for the Fire Inspection Report. Three (3) violations were cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The Fire Inspection Report was not submitted within seven (7) days. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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. Staff (K.D.) First Aid expired April 2024. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff K.D. CPR training expired April 2024. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -First Aid must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(c). -CPR training must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(d). -The Fire Inspection Report must be submitted to the consultant within one (1) week of the inspection. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0304(a). -All North Carolina licensed child care centers and family child care homes must enroll and complete the enrollment surveys for lead-based paint and asbestos of the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program by May 1, 2024. -The Clean Water for Carolina Kids™ program expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program to help address the legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards where North Carolina children learn and play. Training is provided to help child care facilities complete the registration process, and the enrollment surveys can be completed in approximately 15 minutes per section. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Steadman stated that the facility's lead and asbestos was tested in April 2024. -To Get Started: Facilities should register for the required pre-enrollment webinar at https://bit.ly/3CK- webinar. The webinar will provide information about lead and asbestos hazards, state requirements, personnel and facility information needed for the program, commonly asked questions, and tips for success. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 1 To 8 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:35 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a Routine Unannounced visit. I was greeted by the Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued May 30, 2018 and an eighteen-month compliance history score of ninety-one (91) percent prior to today’s visit. During the visit, I observed children in space 1, space 2, and space 4 were observed eating lunch. The items served for lunch were listed on the menu: chicken strips, salad, peaches, a whole wheat roll, and milk. Space 2 was observed closed during the visit, and in space 3, the children were observed having supervised independent play time. Space 5 was observed closed, and in space 6 the children were observed having supervised outdoor play. No new staff have been hired since the last annual compliance visit that was conducted January 26, 2024. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Child Care Center Checklist and the Master Child Care Center Item Number Listing: Supervision: Each group of children was adequately supervised during the visit. Nurturing tones were heard when staff spoke with children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratios were maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Staff were not current with CPR; a violation was cited. First Aid: Staff were not current First Aid; a violation was cited. ITS-SIDS: There are no infants enrolled in the facility. Special Training: Staff are continuing to complete required in-service training. CBC Qualification: Each staff member was current with CBC qualification. Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There are no children with medication; no children with allergies. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: There are no medication stored. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: Each group of children were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) were reviewed; compliance was met. The playground inspections were up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted on the information board. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a "Superior" rating and twelve (12) demerits. The Fire Inspection was conducted June 27, 2024, and approved for day time care only. A violation was cited for the Fire Inspection Report. Three (3) violations were cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The Fire Inspection Report was not submitted within seven (7) days. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 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. Staff (K.D.) First Aid expired April 2024. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff K.D. CPR training expired April 2024. .1102(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 31, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -First Aid must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(c). -CPR training must be completed every two (2) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102(d). -The Fire Inspection Report must be submitted to the consultant within one (1) week of the inspection. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .0304(a). -All North Carolina licensed child care centers and family child care homes must enroll and complete the enrollment surveys for lead-based paint and asbestos of the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program by May 1, 2024. -The Clean Water for Carolina Kids™ program expanded to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ program to help address the legislatively mandated effort to address lead and asbestos hazards where North Carolina children learn and play. Training is provided to help child care facilities complete the registration process, and the enrollment surveys can be completed in approximately 15 minutes per section. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Steadman stated that the facility's lead and asbestos was tested in April 2024. -To Get Started: Facilities should register for the required pre-enrollment webinar at https://bit.ly/3CK- webinar. The webinar will provide information about lead and asbestos hazards, state requirements, personnel and facility information needed for the program, commonly asked questions, and tips for success. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to conduct an Annual Compliance/Unannounced visit to monitor child care requirements. The facility currently holds a Five-Star Rated License issued May 30, 2018 and had a compliance history score of 92% prior to today’s visit. I was greeted by Ms. Dorothy Grant and Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility’s last Annual Compliance Visit was January 26, 2023. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor space was completed with Ms. Porter and Mr. Porter. I observed children in space 2., space 3., space 5., and space 6., having supervised independent play. In space 1., and in space 4., the children were outside having supervised outdoor play. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, January 2024 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and Emergency Medical Care Plan. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drills were not completed every (3) months and a violation was cited. An outlet covered was not covered and a violation was cited. Ten (10) percent of remaining staff's files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean and repairs are in the process of being completed. Garden planters have been replaced, due to deteriorating wood. The center does not provide transportation. The sanitation inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a “Superior” classification and twelve (12) demerits. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was reviewed; the plan was last updated January 30, 2023. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. The electrical outlet in space 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was completed, January 23, 2023, April 11, 2023, June 13, 2023, and September 2023; a drill was not conducted in December 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The Permission to Administer Medication for a child (K.W.) in space 3., the Permission to Administer for a child (J.A.) in space 3.; Permission to Administer over-the-counter ointment for a child (K.P.) was not completed in space 5. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 6, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 1: Prep year 7/1/23-6/30/24, Reassessment year 7/1/24-6/30/25. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Make sure that all outlet covers are covered. Refer to Child Care Rule .0604(c). -Permission to Administer chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i) for permission to administer for chronic health conditions: A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six (6) months to administer prescription or over-the counter mediation to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: the child's name, the subject medical condition or allergic reactions, the names of the authorized over-the counter medications, the criteria for the administration of the medication, the amount and frequency of the dosages, the manner in which the medication shall be administered, the signature of the parent, the date the authorization was signed by the parent, and the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than six (6) months. -All creams, ointments, and sunscreens must have parental authorization. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 (7)(a-g). -Continue to rake mulch. The center has new mulch and is in the process of tilling current mulch and adding new mulch. Repairs are being made to the current slide and it has been roped off, to prevent play, until repairs are completed and mulch is added. As repairs are made to the slide structure, sand wood and make sure there are not any exposed nails. -Health and Safety training is required to be completed every five (5) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .1103(b). -I will return within five (5) days to complete the annual compliance visit for monitoring, which includes new staff files. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was emailed to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to conduct an Annual Compliance/Unannounced visit to monitor child care requirements. The facility currently holds a Five-Star Rated License issued May 30, 2018 and had a compliance history score of 92% prior to today’s visit. I was greeted by Ms. Dorothy Grant and Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility’s last Annual Compliance Visit was January 26, 2023. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor space was completed with Ms. Porter and Mr. Porter. I observed children in space 2., space 3., space 5., and space 6., having supervised independent play. In space 1., and in space 4., the children were outside having supervised outdoor play. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, January 2024 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and Emergency Medical Care Plan. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drills were not completed every (3) months and a violation was cited. An outlet covered was not covered and a violation was cited. Ten (10) percent of remaining staff's files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean and repairs are in the process of being completed. Garden planters have been replaced, due to deteriorating wood. The center does not provide transportation. The sanitation inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a “Superior” classification and twelve (12) demerits. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was reviewed; the plan was last updated January 30, 2023. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. The electrical outlet in space 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was completed, January 23, 2023, April 11, 2023, June 13, 2023, and September 2023; a drill was not conducted in December 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The Permission to Administer Medication for a child (K.W.) in space 3., the Permission to Administer for a child (J.A.) in space 3.; Permission to Administer over-the-counter ointment for a child (K.P.) was not completed in space 5. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 6, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 1: Prep year 7/1/23-6/30/24, Reassessment year 7/1/24-6/30/25. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Make sure that all outlet covers are covered. Refer to Child Care Rule .0604(c). -Permission to Administer chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i) for permission to administer for chronic health conditions: A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six (6) months to administer prescription or over-the counter mediation to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: the child's name, the subject medical condition or allergic reactions, the names of the authorized over-the counter medications, the criteria for the administration of the medication, the amount and frequency of the dosages, the manner in which the medication shall be administered, the signature of the parent, the date the authorization was signed by the parent, and the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than six (6) months. -All creams, ointments, and sunscreens must have parental authorization. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 (7)(a-g). -Continue to rake mulch. The center has new mulch and is in the process of tilling current mulch and adding new mulch. Repairs are being made to the current slide and it has been roped off, to prevent play, until repairs are completed and mulch is added. As repairs are made to the slide structure, sand wood and make sure there are not any exposed nails. -Health and Safety training is required to be completed every five (5) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .1103(b). -I will return within five (5) days to complete the annual compliance visit for monitoring, which includes new staff files. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was emailed to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to conduct an Annual Compliance/Unannounced visit to monitor child care requirements. The facility currently holds a Five-Star Rated License issued May 30, 2018 and had a compliance history score of 92% prior to today’s visit. I was greeted by Ms. Dorothy Grant and Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility’s last Annual Compliance Visit was January 26, 2023. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor space was completed with Ms. Porter and Mr. Porter. I observed children in space 2., space 3., space 5., and space 6., having supervised independent play. In space 1., and in space 4., the children were outside having supervised outdoor play. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, January 2024 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and Emergency Medical Care Plan. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drills were not completed every (3) months and a violation was cited. An outlet covered was not covered and a violation was cited. Ten (10) percent of remaining staff's files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean and repairs are in the process of being completed. Garden planters have been replaced, due to deteriorating wood. The center does not provide transportation. The sanitation inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a “Superior” classification and twelve (12) demerits. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was reviewed; the plan was last updated January 30, 2023. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. The electrical outlet in space 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was completed, January 23, 2023, April 11, 2023, June 13, 2023, and September 2023; a drill was not conducted in December 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The Permission to Administer Medication for a child (K.W.) in space 3., the Permission to Administer for a child (J.A.) in space 3.; Permission to Administer over-the-counter ointment for a child (K.P.) was not completed in space 5. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 6, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 1: Prep year 7/1/23-6/30/24, Reassessment year 7/1/24-6/30/25. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Make sure that all outlet covers are covered. Refer to Child Care Rule .0604(c). -Permission to Administer chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i) for permission to administer for chronic health conditions: A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six (6) months to administer prescription or over-the counter mediation to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: the child's name, the subject medical condition or allergic reactions, the names of the authorized over-the counter medications, the criteria for the administration of the medication, the amount and frequency of the dosages, the manner in which the medication shall be administered, the signature of the parent, the date the authorization was signed by the parent, and the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than six (6) months. -All creams, ointments, and sunscreens must have parental authorization. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 (7)(a-g). -Continue to rake mulch. The center has new mulch and is in the process of tilling current mulch and adding new mulch. Repairs are being made to the current slide and it has been roped off, to prevent play, until repairs are completed and mulch is added. As repairs are made to the slide structure, sand wood and make sure there are not any exposed nails. -Health and Safety training is required to be completed every five (5) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .1103(b). -I will return within five (5) days to complete the annual compliance visit for monitoring, which includes new staff files. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was emailed to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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: THE EARLY LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 60000879 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 60 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to conduct an Annual Compliance/Unannounced visit to monitor child care requirements. The facility currently holds a Five-Star Rated License issued May 30, 2018 and had a compliance history score of 92% prior to today’s visit. I was greeted by Ms. Dorothy Grant and Director, Ms. Pat Porter, and I explained the purpose of the visit. The facility’s last Annual Compliance Visit was January 26, 2023. The Center Item Number Listing and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers were used to monitor today’s visit. A copy of the Annual Compliance Checklist for Centers will be provided. A walkthrough of the indoor and outdoor space was completed with Ms. Porter and Mr. Porter. I observed children in space 2., space 3., space 5., and space 6., having supervised independent play. In space 1., and in space 4., the children were outside having supervised outdoor play. The following programs requirements were observed posted: First Aid Poster, Child Care License, No Smoking Sign, January 2024 Menu, Daily Schedules and Activity Plans, North Carolina Summary of the Law, Fire Drills/Shelter-in-Place and/or Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspection Forms, and Emergency Medical Care Plan. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drills were not completed every (3) months and a violation was cited. An outlet covered was not covered and a violation was cited. Ten (10) percent of remaining staff's files were reviewed and compliance was met. The outdoor area and equipment were clean and repairs are in the process of being completed. Garden planters have been replaced, due to deteriorating wood. The center does not provide transportation. The sanitation inspection was completed November 21, 2023, with a “Superior” classification and twelve (12) demerits. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was reviewed; the plan was last updated January 30, 2023. Three (3) violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. The electrical outlet in space 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The shelter-in-place/lockdown drill was completed, January 23, 2023, April 11, 2023, June 13, 2023, and September 2023; a drill was not conducted in December 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The Permission to Administer Medication for a child (K.W.) in space 3., the Permission to Administer for a child (J.A.) in space 3.; Permission to Administer over-the-counter ointment for a child (K.P.) was not completed in space 5. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 6, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 1: Prep year 7/1/23-6/30/24, Reassessment year 7/1/24-6/30/25. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Make sure that all outlet covers are covered. Refer to Child Care Rule .0604(c). -Permission to Administer chronic medications must be completed every six (6) months. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803(6)(a-i) for permission to administer for chronic health conditions: A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six (6) months to administer prescription or over-the counter mediation to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: the child's name, the subject medical condition or allergic reactions, the names of the authorized over-the counter medications, the criteria for the administration of the medication, the amount and frequency of the dosages, the manner in which the medication shall be administered, the signature of the parent, the date the authorization was signed by the parent, and the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than six (6) months. -All creams, ointments, and sunscreens must have parental authorization. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 (7)(a-g). -Continue to rake mulch. The center has new mulch and is in the process of tilling current mulch and adding new mulch. Repairs are being made to the current slide and it has been roped off, to prevent play, until repairs are completed and mulch is added. As repairs are made to the slide structure, sand wood and make sure there are not any exposed nails. -Health and Safety training is required to be completed every five (5) years. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC .1103(b). -I will return within five (5) days to complete the annual compliance visit for monitoring, which includes new staff files. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was emailed to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. 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