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Home › NC › Charlotte › The Nest Schools
3200 Mckee Road, Charlotte NC 28270 · License #60004279 · Center · Child Care Center
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10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 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 monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for the annual compliance visit. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 78 % prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 22, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 6, 2026, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Amanda Mello, Assistant Director, greeted me. I stated the purpose for the visit. Shantese Harvey, Director is on vacation. I met with Ms. Mello, and we discussed items to be reviewed. Ms. Mello assisted me with the visit today. During the visit, Candance Adams, Education Coordinator arrived to support and assist with center needs. A sanitation inspection was completed February 26, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 12, 2026, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was submitted to me on June 17, 2026 and not within one week of the inspection. A violation was cited. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on April 22, 2026. The last fire drill was conducted on June 15, 2026. Playground safety checks were monitored and found in compliance. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was dated June 30, 2026. The ready-to-go file was monitored, and staff emergency information was not included in the log. A violation was cited. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been nine (9) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted, including two (2) new administrative staff members. All new staff files were monitored. A CPR/FA violation was cited. See violation section for details. One veteran staff file was monitored and found in compliance. ABCMS was monitored and the facility has a current ABCMS roster. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today and one (1) violation was cited. Please see the violations section for details. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas were monitored. Transportation is not provided. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, indoor activity areas, outdoor play and teacher directed activities. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate. Staff/child ratio was in compliance during today’s visit. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and found in compliance. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. All outdoor areas were monitored. The resilient surfacing and general outdoor safety violations were cited. The following violations were cited: 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 conducted 2/12/2026 was submitted to the Division 6/17/2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In Space 1, a child enrolled had a feeding schedule on file not signed or dated by a parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the preschool rear field play area, a board was missing along the fence line exposing rusty nails and several large holes were observed posing a tripping risk to children. On the play area serving two year old children, a stepping stone was accessible to children with a sharp edge. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In Space 10, an Auvi-Q was not in the original container and a FARE form was on file dated 7/1/2025. .0803(2)(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, plastic food service gloves were on a counter accessible to children. In Space 8, small wiggly eyes and die were on the counter in a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8, plastic containing pipe cleaners was accessible to children in an unlocked cabinet. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space 1, on 6/26/2026, a caregiver documented a child under 12 months was initially placed on tummy at 9:30 am and 1:00 pm. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 and one (1) employee hired 1/5/2026 did not have a First Aid certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 did not have a CPR certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One (1) child enrolled 9/7/2023 had a medical assessment on file dated 11/24/2023. GS110-91(1) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The ready to go file did not contain emergency contact information for staff. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. One the preschool and the two year old outdoor play areas, the resilient surfacing under stationary equipment play structures did not meet sufficient critical depth in the fall zones. .0605(k)(1-4) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow up visit may be conducted to monitor CPR/ First Aid compliance. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety training free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. CPR/FIRST AID Please review our website to determine approved training for CPR and First Aid. You can find more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Upon review, I determined that the American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) Healthcare Providers- meets CPR only. The course does not meet First Aid requirements. We also discussed that National CPR Foundation is not an approved agency for CPR/ First Aid training. Please make arrangements to secure required and approved training for each staff member immediately. Pathway to the Stars / QRIS We discussed your plan to apply for your new rated license using Pathway 3. I will follow up with Ms. Harvey to get a timeline I regard to your NAEYC Accreditation application. Ms. Mello contacted Corrine Brylski and verified your facility is currently in the show and describe phase of NAEYC accreditation. Medication in Child Care Please review all of the rules regarding medications and permission to administer forms.. Medication rules can be found as follows: 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT and 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Safe Sleep Checks: We discussed requirement that a child under 12 months shall be placed on back and that should be documented. I reviewed this requirement with the Infant teacher and the Assistance Director. Teacher Supplies/Small Parts We discussed moving all teacher supplies to areas locked or higher than five (5) feet especially in rooms serving children under three years of age. We discussed using latex gloves for food service instead of the plastic gloves from the food service area. If you determine you will use the plastic gloves they must be strored higher than five feet inaccessible to children. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270 or Amy Italiano, Licensing Supervisor at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
Data synced from North Carolina's child care licensing agency on Jul 9, 2026 · Report an error
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 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 monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for the annual compliance visit. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 78 % prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 22, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 6, 2026, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Amanda Mello, Assistant Director, greeted me. I stated the purpose for the visit. Shantese Harvey, Director is on vacation. I met with Ms. Mello, and we discussed items to be reviewed. Ms. Mello assisted me with the visit today. During the visit, Candance Adams, Education Coordinator arrived to support and assist with center needs. A sanitation inspection was completed February 26, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 12, 2026, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was submitted to me on June 17, 2026 and not within one week of the inspection. A violation was cited. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on April 22, 2026. The last fire drill was conducted on June 15, 2026. Playground safety checks were monitored and found in compliance. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was dated June 30, 2026. The ready-to-go file was monitored, and staff emergency information was not included in the log. A violation was cited. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been nine (9) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted, including two (2) new administrative staff members. All new staff files were monitored. A CPR/FA violation was cited. See violation section for details. One veteran staff file was monitored and found in compliance. ABCMS was monitored and the facility has a current ABCMS roster. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today and one (1) violation was cited. Please see the violations section for details. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas were monitored. Transportation is not provided. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, indoor activity areas, outdoor play and teacher directed activities. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate. Staff/child ratio was in compliance during today’s visit. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and found in compliance. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. All outdoor areas were monitored. The resilient surfacing and general outdoor safety violations were cited. The following violations were cited: 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 conducted 2/12/2026 was submitted to the Division 6/17/2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In Space 1, a child enrolled had a feeding schedule on file not signed or dated by a parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the preschool rear field play area, a board was missing along the fence line exposing rusty nails and several large holes were observed posing a tripping risk to children. On the play area serving two year old children, a stepping stone was accessible to children with a sharp edge. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In Space 10, an Auvi-Q was not in the original container and a FARE form was on file dated 7/1/2025. .0803(2)(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, plastic food service gloves were on a counter accessible to children. In Space 8, small wiggly eyes and die were on the counter in a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8, plastic containing pipe cleaners was accessible to children in an unlocked cabinet. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space 1, on 6/26/2026, a caregiver documented a child under 12 months was initially placed on tummy at 9:30 am and 1:00 pm. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 and one (1) employee hired 1/5/2026 did not have a First Aid certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 did not have a CPR certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One (1) child enrolled 9/7/2023 had a medical assessment on file dated 11/24/2023. GS110-91(1) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The ready to go file did not contain emergency contact information for staff. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. One the preschool and the two year old outdoor play areas, the resilient surfacing under stationary equipment play structures did not meet sufficient critical depth in the fall zones. .0605(k)(1-4) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow up visit may be conducted to monitor CPR/ First Aid compliance. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety training free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. CPR/FIRST AID Please review our website to determine approved training for CPR and First Aid. You can find more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Upon review, I determined that the American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) Healthcare Providers- meets CPR only. The course does not meet First Aid requirements. We also discussed that National CPR Foundation is not an approved agency for CPR/ First Aid training. Please make arrangements to secure required and approved training for each staff member immediately. Pathway to the Stars / QRIS We discussed your plan to apply for your new rated license using Pathway 3. I will follow up with Ms. Harvey to get a timeline I regard to your NAEYC Accreditation application. Ms. Mello contacted Corrine Brylski and verified your facility is currently in the show and describe phase of NAEYC accreditation. Medication in Child Care Please review all of the rules regarding medications and permission to administer forms.. Medication rules can be found as follows: 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT and 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Safe Sleep Checks: We discussed requirement that a child under 12 months shall be placed on back and that should be documented. I reviewed this requirement with the Infant teacher and the Assistance Director. Teacher Supplies/Small Parts We discussed moving all teacher supplies to areas locked or higher than five (5) feet especially in rooms serving children under three years of age. We discussed using latex gloves for food service instead of the plastic gloves from the food service area. If you determine you will use the plastic gloves they must be strored higher than five feet inaccessible to children. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270 or Amy Italiano, Licensing Supervisor at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0801 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 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 monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for the annual compliance visit. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 78 % prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 22, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 6, 2026, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Amanda Mello, Assistant Director, greeted me. I stated the purpose for the visit. Shantese Harvey, Director is on vacation. I met with Ms. Mello, and we discussed items to be reviewed. Ms. Mello assisted me with the visit today. During the visit, Candance Adams, Education Coordinator arrived to support and assist with center needs. A sanitation inspection was completed February 26, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 12, 2026, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was submitted to me on June 17, 2026 and not within one week of the inspection. A violation was cited. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on April 22, 2026. The last fire drill was conducted on June 15, 2026. Playground safety checks were monitored and found in compliance. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was dated June 30, 2026. The ready-to-go file was monitored, and staff emergency information was not included in the log. A violation was cited. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been nine (9) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted, including two (2) new administrative staff members. All new staff files were monitored. A CPR/FA violation was cited. See violation section for details. One veteran staff file was monitored and found in compliance. ABCMS was monitored and the facility has a current ABCMS roster. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today and one (1) violation was cited. Please see the violations section for details. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas were monitored. Transportation is not provided. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, indoor activity areas, outdoor play and teacher directed activities. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate. Staff/child ratio was in compliance during today’s visit. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and found in compliance. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. All outdoor areas were monitored. The resilient surfacing and general outdoor safety violations were cited. The following violations were cited: 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 conducted 2/12/2026 was submitted to the Division 6/17/2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In Space 1, a child enrolled had a feeding schedule on file not signed or dated by a parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the preschool rear field play area, a board was missing along the fence line exposing rusty nails and several large holes were observed posing a tripping risk to children. On the play area serving two year old children, a stepping stone was accessible to children with a sharp edge. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In Space 10, an Auvi-Q was not in the original container and a FARE form was on file dated 7/1/2025. .0803(2)(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, plastic food service gloves were on a counter accessible to children. In Space 8, small wiggly eyes and die were on the counter in a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8, plastic containing pipe cleaners was accessible to children in an unlocked cabinet. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space 1, on 6/26/2026, a caregiver documented a child under 12 months was initially placed on tummy at 9:30 am and 1:00 pm. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 and one (1) employee hired 1/5/2026 did not have a First Aid certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 did not have a CPR certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One (1) child enrolled 9/7/2023 had a medical assessment on file dated 11/24/2023. GS110-91(1) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The ready to go file did not contain emergency contact information for staff. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. One the preschool and the two year old outdoor play areas, the resilient surfacing under stationary equipment play structures did not meet sufficient critical depth in the fall zones. .0605(k)(1-4) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow up visit may be conducted to monitor CPR/ First Aid compliance. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety training free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. CPR/FIRST AID Please review our website to determine approved training for CPR and First Aid. You can find more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Upon review, I determined that the American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) Healthcare Providers- meets CPR only. The course does not meet First Aid requirements. We also discussed that National CPR Foundation is not an approved agency for CPR/ First Aid training. Please make arrangements to secure required and approved training for each staff member immediately. Pathway to the Stars / QRIS We discussed your plan to apply for your new rated license using Pathway 3. I will follow up with Ms. Harvey to get a timeline I regard to your NAEYC Accreditation application. Ms. Mello contacted Corrine Brylski and verified your facility is currently in the show and describe phase of NAEYC accreditation. Medication in Child Care Please review all of the rules regarding medications and permission to administer forms.. Medication rules can be found as follows: 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT and 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Safe Sleep Checks: We discussed requirement that a child under 12 months shall be placed on back and that should be documented. I reviewed this requirement with the Infant teacher and the Assistance Director. Teacher Supplies/Small Parts We discussed moving all teacher supplies to areas locked or higher than five (5) feet especially in rooms serving children under three years of age. We discussed using latex gloves for food service instead of the plastic gloves from the food service area. If you determine you will use the plastic gloves they must be strored higher than five feet inaccessible to children. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270 or Amy Italiano, Licensing Supervisor at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 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 monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for the annual compliance visit. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 78 % prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 22, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 6, 2026, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Amanda Mello, Assistant Director, greeted me. I stated the purpose for the visit. Shantese Harvey, Director is on vacation. I met with Ms. Mello, and we discussed items to be reviewed. Ms. Mello assisted me with the visit today. During the visit, Candance Adams, Education Coordinator arrived to support and assist with center needs. A sanitation inspection was completed February 26, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 12, 2026, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was submitted to me on June 17, 2026 and not within one week of the inspection. A violation was cited. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on April 22, 2026. The last fire drill was conducted on June 15, 2026. Playground safety checks were monitored and found in compliance. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was dated June 30, 2026. The ready-to-go file was monitored, and staff emergency information was not included in the log. A violation was cited. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been nine (9) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted, including two (2) new administrative staff members. All new staff files were monitored. A CPR/FA violation was cited. See violation section for details. One veteran staff file was monitored and found in compliance. ABCMS was monitored and the facility has a current ABCMS roster. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today and one (1) violation was cited. Please see the violations section for details. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas were monitored. Transportation is not provided. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, indoor activity areas, outdoor play and teacher directed activities. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate. Staff/child ratio was in compliance during today’s visit. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and found in compliance. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. All outdoor areas were monitored. The resilient surfacing and general outdoor safety violations were cited. The following violations were cited: 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 conducted 2/12/2026 was submitted to the Division 6/17/2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In Space 1, a child enrolled had a feeding schedule on file not signed or dated by a parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the preschool rear field play area, a board was missing along the fence line exposing rusty nails and several large holes were observed posing a tripping risk to children. On the play area serving two year old children, a stepping stone was accessible to children with a sharp edge. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In Space 10, an Auvi-Q was not in the original container and a FARE form was on file dated 7/1/2025. .0803(2)(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, plastic food service gloves were on a counter accessible to children. In Space 8, small wiggly eyes and die were on the counter in a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8, plastic containing pipe cleaners was accessible to children in an unlocked cabinet. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space 1, on 6/26/2026, a caregiver documented a child under 12 months was initially placed on tummy at 9:30 am and 1:00 pm. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 and one (1) employee hired 1/5/2026 did not have a First Aid certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 did not have a CPR certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One (1) child enrolled 9/7/2023 had a medical assessment on file dated 11/24/2023. GS110-91(1) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The ready to go file did not contain emergency contact information for staff. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. One the preschool and the two year old outdoor play areas, the resilient surfacing under stationary equipment play structures did not meet sufficient critical depth in the fall zones. .0605(k)(1-4) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow up visit may be conducted to monitor CPR/ First Aid compliance. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety training free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. CPR/FIRST AID Please review our website to determine approved training for CPR and First Aid. You can find more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Upon review, I determined that the American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) Healthcare Providers- meets CPR only. The course does not meet First Aid requirements. We also discussed that National CPR Foundation is not an approved agency for CPR/ First Aid training. Please make arrangements to secure required and approved training for each staff member immediately. Pathway to the Stars / QRIS We discussed your plan to apply for your new rated license using Pathway 3. I will follow up with Ms. Harvey to get a timeline I regard to your NAEYC Accreditation application. Ms. Mello contacted Corrine Brylski and verified your facility is currently in the show and describe phase of NAEYC accreditation. Medication in Child Care Please review all of the rules regarding medications and permission to administer forms.. Medication rules can be found as follows: 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT and 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Safe Sleep Checks: We discussed requirement that a child under 12 months shall be placed on back and that should be documented. I reviewed this requirement with the Infant teacher and the Assistance Director. Teacher Supplies/Small Parts We discussed moving all teacher supplies to areas locked or higher than five (5) feet especially in rooms serving children under three years of age. We discussed using latex gloves for food service instead of the plastic gloves from the food service area. If you determine you will use the plastic gloves they must be strored higher than five feet inaccessible to children. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270 or Amy Italiano, Licensing Supervisor at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
GS110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 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 monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for the annual compliance visit. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 78 % prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 22, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 6, 2026, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Amanda Mello, Assistant Director, greeted me. I stated the purpose for the visit. Shantese Harvey, Director is on vacation. I met with Ms. Mello, and we discussed items to be reviewed. Ms. Mello assisted me with the visit today. During the visit, Candance Adams, Education Coordinator arrived to support and assist with center needs. A sanitation inspection was completed February 26, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 12, 2026, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was submitted to me on June 17, 2026 and not within one week of the inspection. A violation was cited. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on April 22, 2026. The last fire drill was conducted on June 15, 2026. Playground safety checks were monitored and found in compliance. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was dated June 30, 2026. The ready-to-go file was monitored, and staff emergency information was not included in the log. A violation was cited. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been nine (9) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted, including two (2) new administrative staff members. All new staff files were monitored. A CPR/FA violation was cited. See violation section for details. One veteran staff file was monitored and found in compliance. ABCMS was monitored and the facility has a current ABCMS roster. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today and one (1) violation was cited. Please see the violations section for details. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas were monitored. Transportation is not provided. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, indoor activity areas, outdoor play and teacher directed activities. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate. Staff/child ratio was in compliance during today’s visit. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and found in compliance. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. All outdoor areas were monitored. The resilient surfacing and general outdoor safety violations were cited. The following violations were cited: 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 conducted 2/12/2026 was submitted to the Division 6/17/2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In Space 1, a child enrolled had a feeding schedule on file not signed or dated by a parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the preschool rear field play area, a board was missing along the fence line exposing rusty nails and several large holes were observed posing a tripping risk to children. On the play area serving two year old children, a stepping stone was accessible to children with a sharp edge. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In Space 10, an Auvi-Q was not in the original container and a FARE form was on file dated 7/1/2025. .0803(2)(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, plastic food service gloves were on a counter accessible to children. In Space 8, small wiggly eyes and die were on the counter in a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8, plastic containing pipe cleaners was accessible to children in an unlocked cabinet. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space 1, on 6/26/2026, a caregiver documented a child under 12 months was initially placed on tummy at 9:30 am and 1:00 pm. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 and one (1) employee hired 1/5/2026 did not have a First Aid certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 did not have a CPR certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One (1) child enrolled 9/7/2023 had a medical assessment on file dated 11/24/2023. GS110-91(1) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The ready to go file did not contain emergency contact information for staff. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. One the preschool and the two year old outdoor play areas, the resilient surfacing under stationary equipment play structures did not meet sufficient critical depth in the fall zones. .0605(k)(1-4) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow up visit may be conducted to monitor CPR/ First Aid compliance. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety training free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. CPR/FIRST AID Please review our website to determine approved training for CPR and First Aid. You can find more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Upon review, I determined that the American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) Healthcare Providers- meets CPR only. The course does not meet First Aid requirements. We also discussed that National CPR Foundation is not an approved agency for CPR/ First Aid training. Please make arrangements to secure required and approved training for each staff member immediately. Pathway to the Stars / QRIS We discussed your plan to apply for your new rated license using Pathway 3. I will follow up with Ms. Harvey to get a timeline I regard to your NAEYC Accreditation application. Ms. Mello contacted Corrine Brylski and verified your facility is currently in the show and describe phase of NAEYC accreditation. Medication in Child Care Please review all of the rules regarding medications and permission to administer forms.. Medication rules can be found as follows: 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT and 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Safe Sleep Checks: We discussed requirement that a child under 12 months shall be placed on back and that should be documented. I reviewed this requirement with the Infant teacher and the Assistance Director. Teacher Supplies/Small Parts We discussed moving all teacher supplies to areas locked or higher than five (5) feet especially in rooms serving children under three years of age. We discussed using latex gloves for food service instead of the plastic gloves from the food service area. If you determine you will use the plastic gloves they must be strored higher than five feet inaccessible to children. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270 or Amy Italiano, Licensing Supervisor at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/7/2026 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 7/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 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 monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for the annual compliance visit. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 78 % prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 22, 2025. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 6, 2026, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Amanda Mello, Assistant Director, greeted me. I stated the purpose for the visit. Shantese Harvey, Director is on vacation. I met with Ms. Mello, and we discussed items to be reviewed. Ms. Mello assisted me with the visit today. During the visit, Candance Adams, Education Coordinator arrived to support and assist with center needs. A sanitation inspection was completed February 26, 2026, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 12, 2026, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was submitted to me on June 17, 2026 and not within one week of the inspection. A violation was cited. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on April 22, 2026. The last fire drill was conducted on June 15, 2026. Playground safety checks were monitored and found in compliance. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was dated June 30, 2026. The ready-to-go file was monitored, and staff emergency information was not included in the log. A violation was cited. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been nine (9) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted, including two (2) new administrative staff members. All new staff files were monitored. A CPR/FA violation was cited. See violation section for details. One veteran staff file was monitored and found in compliance. ABCMS was monitored and the facility has a current ABCMS roster. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today and one (1) violation was cited. Please see the violations section for details. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas were monitored. Transportation is not provided. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, indoor activity areas, outdoor play and teacher directed activities. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate. Staff/child ratio was in compliance during today’s visit. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and found in compliance. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. All outdoor areas were monitored. The resilient surfacing and general outdoor safety violations were cited. The following violations were cited: 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 conducted 2/12/2026 was submitted to the Division 6/17/2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In Space 1, a child enrolled had a feeding schedule on file not signed or dated by a parent. .0902(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the preschool rear field play area, a board was missing along the fence line exposing rusty nails and several large holes were observed posing a tripping risk to children. On the play area serving two year old children, a stepping stone was accessible to children with a sharp edge. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. In Space 10, an Auvi-Q was not in the original container and a FARE form was on file dated 7/1/2025. .0803(2)(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, plastic food service gloves were on a counter accessible to children. In Space 8, small wiggly eyes and die were on the counter in a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8, plastic containing pipe cleaners was accessible to children in an unlocked cabinet. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In Space 1, on 6/26/2026, a caregiver documented a child under 12 months was initially placed on tummy at 9:30 am and 1:00 pm. .0606(g) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 and one (1) employee hired 1/5/2026 did not have a First Aid certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) employee hired 2/20/2026 did not have a CPR certificate on file from an approved organization. .1102(d) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One (1) child enrolled 9/7/2023 had a medical assessment on file dated 11/24/2023. GS110-91(1) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The ready to go file did not contain emergency contact information for staff. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. One the preschool and the two year old outdoor play areas, the resilient surfacing under stationary equipment play structures did not meet sufficient critical depth in the fall zones. .0605(k)(1-4) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow up visit may be conducted to monitor CPR/ First Aid compliance. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety training free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. CPR/FIRST AID Please review our website to determine approved training for CPR and First Aid. You can find more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Upon review, I determined that the American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) Healthcare Providers- meets CPR only. The course does not meet First Aid requirements. We also discussed that National CPR Foundation is not an approved agency for CPR/ First Aid training. Please make arrangements to secure required and approved training for each staff member immediately. Pathway to the Stars / QRIS We discussed your plan to apply for your new rated license using Pathway 3. I will follow up with Ms. Harvey to get a timeline I regard to your NAEYC Accreditation application. Ms. Mello contacted Corrine Brylski and verified your facility is currently in the show and describe phase of NAEYC accreditation. Medication in Child Care Please review all of the rules regarding medications and permission to administer forms.. Medication rules can be found as follows: 10A NCAC 09 .0801 APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT and 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Safe Sleep Checks: We discussed requirement that a child under 12 months shall be placed on back and that should be documented. I reviewed this requirement with the Infant teacher and the Assistance Director. Teacher Supplies/Small Parts We discussed moving all teacher supplies to areas locked or higher than five (5) feet especially in rooms serving children under three years of age. We discussed using latex gloves for food service instead of the plastic gloves from the food service area. If you determine you will use the plastic gloves they must be strored higher than five feet inaccessible to children. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270 or Amy Italiano, Licensing Supervisor at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-936-6065. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0226-020L Visit Date: 2/12/2026 Number Present: 51 Completed Date: 2/12/2026 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:05 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. I observed the Administrative Action issued December 10, 2025 posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history is 80% prior to today’s visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. Upon my arrival, Shantese Harvey, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. I shared the allegations with Ms. Harvey that a reporter stated that “there is black mold on the ceiling in a classroom.” There are allegations of violations of the following childcare requirements: All walls and ceilings, including doors and windows, were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. During today’s visit, Ms. Harvey and I completed the walkthrough to monitor all areas. During the walkthrough, I observed children engaged in personal care routines, outdoor play, music, and transitions. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed the ceiling of each classroom. In Space 7, I observed three (3) air vents with visible black residue on the vents, on the emergency fire light and on the ceiling around the vents. I am unable to determine if the residue is dirt or fungal growth. Findings: Based on observation alleging all walls and ceilings, including doors and windows, were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair is confirmed. A violation was cited. The following violation was cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. In Space 7, three (3) air vents, one emergency fire light and the ceiling area around each vent were not clean and included visible black residue. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 26, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails WALLS AND CEILINGS The sanitation rule (15A NCAC 18A .2825) regarding clean ceilings is as follows: (a) In child care centers, the walls and ceilings, including doors and windows, of all rooms and areas shall be kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. All walls and ceilings shall be free of peeling, flaking, chalking, or otherwise deteriorating paint. We discussed that corrective action should include correcting the current situation and a plan for ongoing compliance to reduce the risk of dirt and/or fungal growth. You stated you are planning to move the children out of Space 7 until the ceilings are clean and show no evidence of dirt or fungal growth. Reminder Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LEIGH BROOME Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-170A Visit Date: 10/14/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 10/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 112 Time In: 10:23 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. I conducted a walk-through of the facility unaccompanied. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Kate Cudnik, administrator, and an additional staff member. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and/or confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On October 7, 2025, a staff member yelled at a child during a verbal dispute. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On October 7, 2025, a staff member bit a three-year-old child on the right cheek resulting in a bruise. .1803(a)(1) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week, October 21, 2025, you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Leigh Broome, Investigations Consultant, leigh.broome@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Leigh Broome, Investigations Consultant, 704-594-0146, leigh.broome@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.
GS 110-105 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LEIGH BROOME Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-170A Visit Date: 10/14/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 10/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 112 Time In: 10:23 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. I conducted a walk-through of the facility unaccompanied. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Kate Cudnik, administrator, and an additional staff member. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and/or confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On October 7, 2025, a staff member yelled at a child during a verbal dispute. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On October 7, 2025, a staff member bit a three-year-old child on the right cheek resulting in a bruise. .1803(a)(1) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week, October 21, 2025, you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Leigh Broome, Investigations Consultant, leigh.broome@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Leigh Broome, Investigations Consultant, 704-594-0146, leigh.broome@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/22/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 7/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 18, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, and Velda Mingledoff also greeted me. As I arrived, Natalie Casper, Environmental Specialist was conducting a follow-up environmental health inspection. Ms. Mingledoff and Ms. Cudnik assisted me with getting program staff and children files to review while Ms. Casper completed her inspection. I completed the review of files and then met with Ms. Casper following the sanitation inspection. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 30, 2024. A sanitation inspection was completed July 22, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted April 9, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was not documented on the approved DCDEE form and submitted to me within one week of the inspection. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on July 14, 2025. The last fire drill was conducted on June 30, 2025. Playground safety checks were monitored. Only one inspection dated July 15, 2025 was on file for the center. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was updated July 22, 2025. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted including three (3) new administrative staff members. The new staff files were monitored. One veteran staff file was monitored. See the violations section for details of items cited. The facility has a current ABCMS roster. I observed a signature sheet from the updated policies in response to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025 in each staff member’s file. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today. Please see the violations section for items cited. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas and transportation were monitored. Transportation is not offered during the summer. The bus was off site for inspection and routine mechanical work. I was unable to monitor the vehicle requirements for compliance. I observed the liability insurance card in compliance. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, rest, indoor activity areas, circle time. and transition from lunch. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate for the number of children in each classroom. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and one violation was cited. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik attended a required training online and I completed documentation. I met with Ms. Cudnik once her training was completed to discuss the violations. I explained I would return July 23, 2025, to review the computer-generated visit summary. The following violations were cited: 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. A fire inspection was not obtained within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. The Fire Inspection was completed April 9 , 2025. The previous Fire Inspection was completed January 5, 2024.The operator did not submit the Fire Inspection on a form provided by the Division within one week of the inspection. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. One (1) child did not have a signed statement on or before enrollment acknowledging receipt of the NC Summary of Child Care Law. GS 110-102 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. In Space 8, allergy information for one (1) child was not posted near the eating area. .0901(g) 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. The HVAC units located on the preschool/school age and the twos play area had a carabiner hook only on the gates and did not have a mesh guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. .0604 (m) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 6 and in Space 8 one (1) child requiring emergency medication did not have a physician signed FARE plan on file. In Space 4, one child's permission to administer form did not include his name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The only playground inspection on file was dated July 15, 2025 completed by the regional director. .0605(q) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a safe sleep policy on file dated 1/30/2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 895 Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. In Space 1, it was documented on 7/16/2025 that a child under 12 months of age was placed on the tummy for initial sleep position. .0606(a)(1)(A-B) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Three (3) staff members did not have the health questionnaire on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Three (3) employees did not have the Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Six (6) employees, including the Director, did not have documentation showing that each received at least 16 hours orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Five (5) employees, including the Director, did not receive six hours or training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary equipment located on the preschool and school age playground measured 4.25" in depth at the greatest depth in the area located at the end of the slide. .0605(k)(1-4) 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. Five (5) employees did not have a signed acknowledgement on file prior to providing care on the first day of work. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a statement acknowledging receipt and explanation of the policy dated 1/15/2025. .0608(b)(1-6) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Staff and Training Worksheets/Files We discussed maintaining a working spreadsheet to monitor all requirements for staff files. We discussed the importance of correct dates on the staff and training worksheets. The provider’s signature on a worksheet attests that the document is true, accurate and complete. The dates must match the dates documented in the employee’s file. Additionally, all documents must be dated and signed accurately. The Staff Orientation Sheet should reflect the actual date of training, or the orientation was completed. I recommend requesting a technical assistance visit to review staff files and documentation. Approval and Documentation of Training Staff may meet the on-going training requirements by attending child-care workshops, conferences, seminars, or courses, provided each training activity satisfies the following criteria including: (5) The Division shall deny approval of training to: Agencies, organizations, or individuals not meeting the standards listed in this Rule and in G.S. 110-91(11); and Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division. (6) Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division pursuant to this Rule shall be permanently ineligible to apply for approval of training. Information regarding training can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Quality Every Day (QED) We discussed the benefit of the Quality Every Day program offered through Child Care Resources, Inc. I recommend you contact CCRI to enroll in this program for additional administrative support. I left a flier for you and will email the flier as well. For more information please contact CCRI at lperry@childcareresourcesinc.org. Administrative Action We discussed that requirements for all stipulation 2 – 5 pertaining to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025, have been met. All violations must be corrected from today’s visit for stipulation 1 to be met. The Administrative Action will need to continue to be posted until a closure letter is received. QRIS Modernization The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. You are not required to choose a specific star level pathway at this time and the information you provide is not a commitment to any pathway. We understand you may change your mind as you learn more about your options. If you have questions about the requirements, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for resources. Webinars and meetings will be available for you over the following months. I will conduct Administrator meetings in September to review the information and answer questions. Please look the emails inviting you to the meeting in September DCDEE WORKS Please review and maintain current WORKS letters on file for each employee. You can access more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/22/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 7/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 18, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, and Velda Mingledoff also greeted me. As I arrived, Natalie Casper, Environmental Specialist was conducting a follow-up environmental health inspection. Ms. Mingledoff and Ms. Cudnik assisted me with getting program staff and children files to review while Ms. Casper completed her inspection. I completed the review of files and then met with Ms. Casper following the sanitation inspection. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 30, 2024. A sanitation inspection was completed July 22, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted April 9, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was not documented on the approved DCDEE form and submitted to me within one week of the inspection. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on July 14, 2025. The last fire drill was conducted on June 30, 2025. Playground safety checks were monitored. Only one inspection dated July 15, 2025 was on file for the center. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was updated July 22, 2025. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted including three (3) new administrative staff members. The new staff files were monitored. One veteran staff file was monitored. See the violations section for details of items cited. The facility has a current ABCMS roster. I observed a signature sheet from the updated policies in response to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025 in each staff member’s file. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today. Please see the violations section for items cited. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas and transportation were monitored. Transportation is not offered during the summer. The bus was off site for inspection and routine mechanical work. I was unable to monitor the vehicle requirements for compliance. I observed the liability insurance card in compliance. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, rest, indoor activity areas, circle time. and transition from lunch. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate for the number of children in each classroom. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and one violation was cited. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik attended a required training online and I completed documentation. I met with Ms. Cudnik once her training was completed to discuss the violations. I explained I would return July 23, 2025, to review the computer-generated visit summary. The following violations were cited: 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. A fire inspection was not obtained within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. The Fire Inspection was completed April 9 , 2025. The previous Fire Inspection was completed January 5, 2024.The operator did not submit the Fire Inspection on a form provided by the Division within one week of the inspection. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. One (1) child did not have a signed statement on or before enrollment acknowledging receipt of the NC Summary of Child Care Law. GS 110-102 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. In Space 8, allergy information for one (1) child was not posted near the eating area. .0901(g) 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. The HVAC units located on the preschool/school age and the twos play area had a carabiner hook only on the gates and did not have a mesh guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. .0604 (m) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 6 and in Space 8 one (1) child requiring emergency medication did not have a physician signed FARE plan on file. In Space 4, one child's permission to administer form did not include his name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The only playground inspection on file was dated July 15, 2025 completed by the regional director. .0605(q) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a safe sleep policy on file dated 1/30/2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 895 Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. In Space 1, it was documented on 7/16/2025 that a child under 12 months of age was placed on the tummy for initial sleep position. .0606(a)(1)(A-B) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Three (3) staff members did not have the health questionnaire on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Three (3) employees did not have the Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Six (6) employees, including the Director, did not have documentation showing that each received at least 16 hours orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Five (5) employees, including the Director, did not receive six hours or training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary equipment located on the preschool and school age playground measured 4.25" in depth at the greatest depth in the area located at the end of the slide. .0605(k)(1-4) 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. Five (5) employees did not have a signed acknowledgement on file prior to providing care on the first day of work. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a statement acknowledging receipt and explanation of the policy dated 1/15/2025. .0608(b)(1-6) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Staff and Training Worksheets/Files We discussed maintaining a working spreadsheet to monitor all requirements for staff files. We discussed the importance of correct dates on the staff and training worksheets. The provider’s signature on a worksheet attests that the document is true, accurate and complete. The dates must match the dates documented in the employee’s file. Additionally, all documents must be dated and signed accurately. The Staff Orientation Sheet should reflect the actual date of training, or the orientation was completed. I recommend requesting a technical assistance visit to review staff files and documentation. Approval and Documentation of Training Staff may meet the on-going training requirements by attending child-care workshops, conferences, seminars, or courses, provided each training activity satisfies the following criteria including: (5) The Division shall deny approval of training to: Agencies, organizations, or individuals not meeting the standards listed in this Rule and in G.S. 110-91(11); and Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division. (6) Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division pursuant to this Rule shall be permanently ineligible to apply for approval of training. Information regarding training can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Quality Every Day (QED) We discussed the benefit of the Quality Every Day program offered through Child Care Resources, Inc. I recommend you contact CCRI to enroll in this program for additional administrative support. I left a flier for you and will email the flier as well. For more information please contact CCRI at lperry@childcareresourcesinc.org. Administrative Action We discussed that requirements for all stipulation 2 – 5 pertaining to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025, have been met. All violations must be corrected from today’s visit for stipulation 1 to be met. The Administrative Action will need to continue to be posted until a closure letter is received. QRIS Modernization The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. You are not required to choose a specific star level pathway at this time and the information you provide is not a commitment to any pathway. We understand you may change your mind as you learn more about your options. If you have questions about the requirements, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for resources. Webinars and meetings will be available for you over the following months. I will conduct Administrator meetings in September to review the information and answer questions. Please look the emails inviting you to the meeting in September DCDEE WORKS Please review and maintain current WORKS letters on file for each employee. You can access more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/22/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 7/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 18, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, and Velda Mingledoff also greeted me. As I arrived, Natalie Casper, Environmental Specialist was conducting a follow-up environmental health inspection. Ms. Mingledoff and Ms. Cudnik assisted me with getting program staff and children files to review while Ms. Casper completed her inspection. I completed the review of files and then met with Ms. Casper following the sanitation inspection. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 30, 2024. A sanitation inspection was completed July 22, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted April 9, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was not documented on the approved DCDEE form and submitted to me within one week of the inspection. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on July 14, 2025. The last fire drill was conducted on June 30, 2025. Playground safety checks were monitored. Only one inspection dated July 15, 2025 was on file for the center. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was updated July 22, 2025. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted including three (3) new administrative staff members. The new staff files were monitored. One veteran staff file was monitored. See the violations section for details of items cited. The facility has a current ABCMS roster. I observed a signature sheet from the updated policies in response to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025 in each staff member’s file. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today. Please see the violations section for items cited. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas and transportation were monitored. Transportation is not offered during the summer. The bus was off site for inspection and routine mechanical work. I was unable to monitor the vehicle requirements for compliance. I observed the liability insurance card in compliance. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, rest, indoor activity areas, circle time. and transition from lunch. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate for the number of children in each classroom. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and one violation was cited. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik attended a required training online and I completed documentation. I met with Ms. Cudnik once her training was completed to discuss the violations. I explained I would return July 23, 2025, to review the computer-generated visit summary. The following violations were cited: 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. A fire inspection was not obtained within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. The Fire Inspection was completed April 9 , 2025. The previous Fire Inspection was completed January 5, 2024.The operator did not submit the Fire Inspection on a form provided by the Division within one week of the inspection. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. One (1) child did not have a signed statement on or before enrollment acknowledging receipt of the NC Summary of Child Care Law. GS 110-102 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. In Space 8, allergy information for one (1) child was not posted near the eating area. .0901(g) 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. The HVAC units located on the preschool/school age and the twos play area had a carabiner hook only on the gates and did not have a mesh guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. .0604 (m) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 6 and in Space 8 one (1) child requiring emergency medication did not have a physician signed FARE plan on file. In Space 4, one child's permission to administer form did not include his name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The only playground inspection on file was dated July 15, 2025 completed by the regional director. .0605(q) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a safe sleep policy on file dated 1/30/2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 895 Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. In Space 1, it was documented on 7/16/2025 that a child under 12 months of age was placed on the tummy for initial sleep position. .0606(a)(1)(A-B) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Three (3) staff members did not have the health questionnaire on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Three (3) employees did not have the Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Six (6) employees, including the Director, did not have documentation showing that each received at least 16 hours orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Five (5) employees, including the Director, did not receive six hours or training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary equipment located on the preschool and school age playground measured 4.25" in depth at the greatest depth in the area located at the end of the slide. .0605(k)(1-4) 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. Five (5) employees did not have a signed acknowledgement on file prior to providing care on the first day of work. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a statement acknowledging receipt and explanation of the policy dated 1/15/2025. .0608(b)(1-6) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Staff and Training Worksheets/Files We discussed maintaining a working spreadsheet to monitor all requirements for staff files. We discussed the importance of correct dates on the staff and training worksheets. The provider’s signature on a worksheet attests that the document is true, accurate and complete. The dates must match the dates documented in the employee’s file. Additionally, all documents must be dated and signed accurately. The Staff Orientation Sheet should reflect the actual date of training, or the orientation was completed. I recommend requesting a technical assistance visit to review staff files and documentation. Approval and Documentation of Training Staff may meet the on-going training requirements by attending child-care workshops, conferences, seminars, or courses, provided each training activity satisfies the following criteria including: (5) The Division shall deny approval of training to: Agencies, organizations, or individuals not meeting the standards listed in this Rule and in G.S. 110-91(11); and Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division. (6) Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division pursuant to this Rule shall be permanently ineligible to apply for approval of training. Information regarding training can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Quality Every Day (QED) We discussed the benefit of the Quality Every Day program offered through Child Care Resources, Inc. I recommend you contact CCRI to enroll in this program for additional administrative support. I left a flier for you and will email the flier as well. For more information please contact CCRI at lperry@childcareresourcesinc.org. Administrative Action We discussed that requirements for all stipulation 2 – 5 pertaining to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025, have been met. All violations must be corrected from today’s visit for stipulation 1 to be met. The Administrative Action will need to continue to be posted until a closure letter is received. QRIS Modernization The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. You are not required to choose a specific star level pathway at this time and the information you provide is not a commitment to any pathway. We understand you may change your mind as you learn more about your options. If you have questions about the requirements, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for resources. Webinars and meetings will be available for you over the following months. I will conduct Administrator meetings in September to review the information and answer questions. Please look the emails inviting you to the meeting in September DCDEE WORKS Please review and maintain current WORKS letters on file for each employee. You can access more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/22/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 7/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 18, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, and Velda Mingledoff also greeted me. As I arrived, Natalie Casper, Environmental Specialist was conducting a follow-up environmental health inspection. Ms. Mingledoff and Ms. Cudnik assisted me with getting program staff and children files to review while Ms. Casper completed her inspection. I completed the review of files and then met with Ms. Casper following the sanitation inspection. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 30, 2024. A sanitation inspection was completed July 22, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted April 9, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was not documented on the approved DCDEE form and submitted to me within one week of the inspection. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on July 14, 2025. The last fire drill was conducted on June 30, 2025. Playground safety checks were monitored. Only one inspection dated July 15, 2025 was on file for the center. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was updated July 22, 2025. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted including three (3) new administrative staff members. The new staff files were monitored. One veteran staff file was monitored. See the violations section for details of items cited. The facility has a current ABCMS roster. I observed a signature sheet from the updated policies in response to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025 in each staff member’s file. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today. Please see the violations section for items cited. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas and transportation were monitored. Transportation is not offered during the summer. The bus was off site for inspection and routine mechanical work. I was unable to monitor the vehicle requirements for compliance. I observed the liability insurance card in compliance. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, rest, indoor activity areas, circle time. and transition from lunch. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate for the number of children in each classroom. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and one violation was cited. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik attended a required training online and I completed documentation. I met with Ms. Cudnik once her training was completed to discuss the violations. I explained I would return July 23, 2025, to review the computer-generated visit summary. The following violations were cited: 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. A fire inspection was not obtained within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. The Fire Inspection was completed April 9 , 2025. The previous Fire Inspection was completed January 5, 2024.The operator did not submit the Fire Inspection on a form provided by the Division within one week of the inspection. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. One (1) child did not have a signed statement on or before enrollment acknowledging receipt of the NC Summary of Child Care Law. GS 110-102 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. In Space 8, allergy information for one (1) child was not posted near the eating area. .0901(g) 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. The HVAC units located on the preschool/school age and the twos play area had a carabiner hook only on the gates and did not have a mesh guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. .0604 (m) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 6 and in Space 8 one (1) child requiring emergency medication did not have a physician signed FARE plan on file. In Space 4, one child's permission to administer form did not include his name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The only playground inspection on file was dated July 15, 2025 completed by the regional director. .0605(q) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a safe sleep policy on file dated 1/30/2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 895 Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. In Space 1, it was documented on 7/16/2025 that a child under 12 months of age was placed on the tummy for initial sleep position. .0606(a)(1)(A-B) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Three (3) staff members did not have the health questionnaire on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Three (3) employees did not have the Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Six (6) employees, including the Director, did not have documentation showing that each received at least 16 hours orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Five (5) employees, including the Director, did not receive six hours or training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary equipment located on the preschool and school age playground measured 4.25" in depth at the greatest depth in the area located at the end of the slide. .0605(k)(1-4) 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. Five (5) employees did not have a signed acknowledgement on file prior to providing care on the first day of work. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a statement acknowledging receipt and explanation of the policy dated 1/15/2025. .0608(b)(1-6) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Staff and Training Worksheets/Files We discussed maintaining a working spreadsheet to monitor all requirements for staff files. We discussed the importance of correct dates on the staff and training worksheets. The provider’s signature on a worksheet attests that the document is true, accurate and complete. The dates must match the dates documented in the employee’s file. Additionally, all documents must be dated and signed accurately. The Staff Orientation Sheet should reflect the actual date of training, or the orientation was completed. I recommend requesting a technical assistance visit to review staff files and documentation. Approval and Documentation of Training Staff may meet the on-going training requirements by attending child-care workshops, conferences, seminars, or courses, provided each training activity satisfies the following criteria including: (5) The Division shall deny approval of training to: Agencies, organizations, or individuals not meeting the standards listed in this Rule and in G.S. 110-91(11); and Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division. (6) Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division pursuant to this Rule shall be permanently ineligible to apply for approval of training. Information regarding training can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Quality Every Day (QED) We discussed the benefit of the Quality Every Day program offered through Child Care Resources, Inc. I recommend you contact CCRI to enroll in this program for additional administrative support. I left a flier for you and will email the flier as well. For more information please contact CCRI at lperry@childcareresourcesinc.org. Administrative Action We discussed that requirements for all stipulation 2 – 5 pertaining to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025, have been met. All violations must be corrected from today’s visit for stipulation 1 to be met. The Administrative Action will need to continue to be posted until a closure letter is received. QRIS Modernization The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. You are not required to choose a specific star level pathway at this time and the information you provide is not a commitment to any pathway. We understand you may change your mind as you learn more about your options. If you have questions about the requirements, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for resources. Webinars and meetings will be available for you over the following months. I will conduct Administrator meetings in September to review the information and answer questions. Please look the emails inviting you to the meeting in September DCDEE WORKS Please review and maintain current WORKS letters on file for each employee. You can access more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS 110-102 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/22/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 7/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 18, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, and Velda Mingledoff also greeted me. As I arrived, Natalie Casper, Environmental Specialist was conducting a follow-up environmental health inspection. Ms. Mingledoff and Ms. Cudnik assisted me with getting program staff and children files to review while Ms. Casper completed her inspection. I completed the review of files and then met with Ms. Casper following the sanitation inspection. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 30, 2024. A sanitation inspection was completed July 22, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted April 9, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was not documented on the approved DCDEE form and submitted to me within one week of the inspection. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on July 14, 2025. The last fire drill was conducted on June 30, 2025. Playground safety checks were monitored. Only one inspection dated July 15, 2025 was on file for the center. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was updated July 22, 2025. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted including three (3) new administrative staff members. The new staff files were monitored. One veteran staff file was monitored. See the violations section for details of items cited. The facility has a current ABCMS roster. I observed a signature sheet from the updated policies in response to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025 in each staff member’s file. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today. Please see the violations section for items cited. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas and transportation were monitored. Transportation is not offered during the summer. The bus was off site for inspection and routine mechanical work. I was unable to monitor the vehicle requirements for compliance. I observed the liability insurance card in compliance. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, rest, indoor activity areas, circle time. and transition from lunch. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate for the number of children in each classroom. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and one violation was cited. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik attended a required training online and I completed documentation. I met with Ms. Cudnik once her training was completed to discuss the violations. I explained I would return July 23, 2025, to review the computer-generated visit summary. The following violations were cited: 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. A fire inspection was not obtained within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. The Fire Inspection was completed April 9 , 2025. The previous Fire Inspection was completed January 5, 2024.The operator did not submit the Fire Inspection on a form provided by the Division within one week of the inspection. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. One (1) child did not have a signed statement on or before enrollment acknowledging receipt of the NC Summary of Child Care Law. GS 110-102 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. In Space 8, allergy information for one (1) child was not posted near the eating area. .0901(g) 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. The HVAC units located on the preschool/school age and the twos play area had a carabiner hook only on the gates and did not have a mesh guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. .0604 (m) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 6 and in Space 8 one (1) child requiring emergency medication did not have a physician signed FARE plan on file. In Space 4, one child's permission to administer form did not include his name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The only playground inspection on file was dated July 15, 2025 completed by the regional director. .0605(q) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a safe sleep policy on file dated 1/30/2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 895 Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. In Space 1, it was documented on 7/16/2025 that a child under 12 months of age was placed on the tummy for initial sleep position. .0606(a)(1)(A-B) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Three (3) staff members did not have the health questionnaire on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Three (3) employees did not have the Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Six (6) employees, including the Director, did not have documentation showing that each received at least 16 hours orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Five (5) employees, including the Director, did not receive six hours or training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary equipment located on the preschool and school age playground measured 4.25" in depth at the greatest depth in the area located at the end of the slide. .0605(k)(1-4) 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. Five (5) employees did not have a signed acknowledgement on file prior to providing care on the first day of work. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a statement acknowledging receipt and explanation of the policy dated 1/15/2025. .0608(b)(1-6) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Staff and Training Worksheets/Files We discussed maintaining a working spreadsheet to monitor all requirements for staff files. We discussed the importance of correct dates on the staff and training worksheets. The provider’s signature on a worksheet attests that the document is true, accurate and complete. The dates must match the dates documented in the employee’s file. Additionally, all documents must be dated and signed accurately. The Staff Orientation Sheet should reflect the actual date of training, or the orientation was completed. I recommend requesting a technical assistance visit to review staff files and documentation. Approval and Documentation of Training Staff may meet the on-going training requirements by attending child-care workshops, conferences, seminars, or courses, provided each training activity satisfies the following criteria including: (5) The Division shall deny approval of training to: Agencies, organizations, or individuals not meeting the standards listed in this Rule and in G.S. 110-91(11); and Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division. (6) Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division pursuant to this Rule shall be permanently ineligible to apply for approval of training. Information regarding training can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Quality Every Day (QED) We discussed the benefit of the Quality Every Day program offered through Child Care Resources, Inc. I recommend you contact CCRI to enroll in this program for additional administrative support. I left a flier for you and will email the flier as well. For more information please contact CCRI at lperry@childcareresourcesinc.org. Administrative Action We discussed that requirements for all stipulation 2 – 5 pertaining to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025, have been met. All violations must be corrected from today’s visit for stipulation 1 to be met. The Administrative Action will need to continue to be posted until a closure letter is received. QRIS Modernization The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. You are not required to choose a specific star level pathway at this time and the information you provide is not a commitment to any pathway. We understand you may change your mind as you learn more about your options. If you have questions about the requirements, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for resources. Webinars and meetings will be available for you over the following months. I will conduct Administrator meetings in September to review the information and answer questions. Please look the emails inviting you to the meeting in September DCDEE WORKS Please review and maintain current WORKS letters on file for each employee. You can access more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/22/2025 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 7/23/2025 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 345 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 18, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, and Velda Mingledoff also greeted me. As I arrived, Natalie Casper, Environmental Specialist was conducting a follow-up environmental health inspection. Ms. Mingledoff and Ms. Cudnik assisted me with getting program staff and children files to review while Ms. Casper completed her inspection. I completed the review of files and then met with Ms. Casper following the sanitation inspection. The last annual compliance visit was conducted July 30, 2024. A sanitation inspection was completed July 22, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted April 9, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Fire Inspection was not documented on the approved DCDEE form and submitted to me within one week of the inspection. A shelter in place / lockdown drill was conducted on July 14, 2025. The last fire drill was conducted on June 30, 2025. Playground safety checks were monitored. Only one inspection dated July 15, 2025 was on file for the center. The Incident log was monitored and found in compliance. The EPR was updated July 22, 2025. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last routine unannounced visit was conducted including three (3) new administrative staff members. The new staff files were monitored. One veteran staff file was monitored. See the violations section for details of items cited. The facility has a current ABCMS roster. I observed a signature sheet from the updated policies in response to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025 in each staff member’s file. The (10) percent of children’s files were monitored today. Please see the violations section for items cited. A walk-through of the facility was completed today; all indoor/outdoor areas and transportation were monitored. Transportation is not offered during the summer. The bus was off site for inspection and routine mechanical work. I was unable to monitor the vehicle requirements for compliance. I observed the liability insurance card in compliance. During the walk through, I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, rest, indoor activity areas, circle time. and transition from lunch. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Activity plans were posted, and materials were available, in good repair and age appropriate for the number of children in each classroom. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed many procedures implemented to monitor, observe and assist staff. The infant room was monitored for Safe Sleep Checks and one violation was cited. Diaper Creams were monitored and one violation was cited. Two (2) children are currently enrolled requiring Emergency Medications. Please see the violations section for details. Each room was monitored for storage of hazardous materials and general safety and no violations were cited. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik attended a required training online and I completed documentation. I met with Ms. Cudnik once her training was completed to discuss the violations. I explained I would return July 23, 2025, to review the computer-generated visit summary. The following violations were cited: 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. A fire inspection was not obtained within twelve (12) months of the previous inspection. The Fire Inspection was completed April 9 , 2025. The previous Fire Inspection was completed January 5, 2024.The operator did not submit the Fire Inspection on a form provided by the Division within one week of the inspection. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. One (1) child did not have a signed statement on or before enrollment acknowledging receipt of the NC Summary of Child Care Law. GS 110-102 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. In Space 8, allergy information for one (1) child was not posted near the eating area. .0901(g) 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. The HVAC units located on the preschool/school age and the twos play area had a carabiner hook only on the gates and did not have a mesh guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. .0604 (m) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In Space 6 and in Space 8 one (1) child requiring emergency medication did not have a physician signed FARE plan on file. In Space 4, one child's permission to administer form did not include his name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. The only playground inspection on file was dated July 15, 2025 completed by the regional director. .0605(q) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a safe sleep policy on file dated 1/30/2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 895 Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. In Space 1, it was documented on 7/16/2025 that a child under 12 months of age was placed on the tummy for initial sleep position. .0606(a)(1)(A-B) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Three (3) staff members did not have the health questionnaire on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Three (3) employees did not have the Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Six (6) employees, including the Director, did not have documentation showing that each received at least 16 hours orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Five (5) employees, including the Director, did not receive six hours or training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary equipment located on the preschool and school age playground measured 4.25" in depth at the greatest depth in the area located at the end of the slide. .0605(k)(1-4) 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. Five (5) employees did not have a signed acknowledgement on file prior to providing care on the first day of work. .0608(d)(1-4) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. One (1) child enrolled 1/6/2025 had a statement acknowledging receipt and explanation of the policy dated 1/15/2025. .0608(b)(1-6) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Staff and Training Worksheets/Files We discussed maintaining a working spreadsheet to monitor all requirements for staff files. We discussed the importance of correct dates on the staff and training worksheets. The provider’s signature on a worksheet attests that the document is true, accurate and complete. The dates must match the dates documented in the employee’s file. Additionally, all documents must be dated and signed accurately. The Staff Orientation Sheet should reflect the actual date of training, or the orientation was completed. I recommend requesting a technical assistance visit to review staff files and documentation. Approval and Documentation of Training Staff may meet the on-going training requirements by attending child-care workshops, conferences, seminars, or courses, provided each training activity satisfies the following criteria including: (5) The Division shall deny approval of training to: Agencies, organizations, or individuals not meeting the standards listed in this Rule and in G.S. 110-91(11); and Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division. (6) Agencies, organizations, or individuals who intentionally falsify any information submitted to the Division pursuant to this Rule shall be permanently ineligible to apply for approval of training. Information regarding training can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development Quality Every Day (QED) We discussed the benefit of the Quality Every Day program offered through Child Care Resources, Inc. I recommend you contact CCRI to enroll in this program for additional administrative support. I left a flier for you and will email the flier as well. For more information please contact CCRI at lperry@childcareresourcesinc.org. Administrative Action We discussed that requirements for all stipulation 2 – 5 pertaining to the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025, have been met. All violations must be corrected from today’s visit for stipulation 1 to be met. The Administrative Action will need to continue to be posted until a closure letter is received. QRIS Modernization The NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is actively planning for the implementation of new QRIS requirements. You are not required to choose a specific star level pathway at this time and the information you provide is not a commitment to any pathway. We understand you may change your mind as you learn more about your options. If you have questions about the requirements, please visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for resources. Webinars and meetings will be available for you over the following months. I will conduct Administrator meetings in September to review the information and answer questions. Please look the emails inviting you to the meeting in September DCDEE WORKS Please review and maintain current WORKS letters on file for each employee. You can access more information here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2703 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 6/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:55 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit and to verify corrections of violations documented during the May 20, 2025, complaint visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, greeted me and assisted Ms. Cudnik with center supervision while we completed the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided information, and I reviewed documentation regarding the following confirmed allegations: The center did not follow policies and procedures regarding completing / providing incident reports is considered corrected. I viewed the incident log and Ms. Cudnik has implemented and reviewed procedures with all staff. A written compliance statement will be emailed to me today. The center did not follow rules and regulations regarding visitor/child interaction is considered corrected. Ms. Cudnik will email a compliance statement today. A policy is in place and all staff have been trained regarding a visitor holding a child in the center. Ms. Cudnik provided information, and I reviewed documentation regarding the following violation: Ms. Cudnik stated that all staff members have a signed Shaken Baby Policy on file. This violation is considered corrected. There have been no new staff members hired since the last visit. The center has hired a new Assistant Director. She is waiting for CBC approval and will not be in the center to work until the qualifying letter is approved and on file. During today’s visit, Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough to monitor all areas. During the walkthrough, I observed children engaged in personal care routines, outdoor play, and circle time. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. While monitoring staff/child ratio, I observed a back pack containing sunscreen in a baggie on a bench located on the play area for two-year-olds accessible to children. I observed an epi-pen in a backpack accessible to children on the playground serving three year olds. I observed the gates to HVAC units on two outdoor play areas unlocked and accessible to children. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik and I met to discuss the following stipulations included in the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • North Carolina General Statute § 110-90.2(b)(d) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e) regarding criminal background check requirements. All staff are current with CBC letters and the new policies submitted May 9, 2025, were reviewed. The ABCMS Roster is complete with the exception of four (4) staff members requiring additional documentation. Ms. Cudnik stated she will email me when all staff have been entered • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818 regarding enhanced staff/child ratios. During a walkthrough of the center, I observed enhanced staff/ratios in compliance. I observed two (2) violations today. Please see the description in the violations section of this Visit Summary. 2. Within one (1) week after the Notice is received, Kate Cudnik, administrator, shall contact Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant, 8801 Crosstimbers Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215, telephone number 980-748-6270, email lisa.eddins-smith@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Special emphasis shall be placed on violations documented in this Notice. The rule review training is scheduled to be completed by Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant, Thursday, July 12, 2025, from 6-8 pm. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the required rules review training is completed, Ms. Cudnik shall develop the facility’s staff/child ratios policy and procedures to describe, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate staff/child ratios of children. The written policy and procedures shall be submitted to Ms. Eddins-Smith for review. These policies shall be submitted on or before June 26, 2025, for my review and approval. 4. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Cudnik, shall develop a written plan that describes, in detail, the steps that will be taken to ensure compliance with child care requirements related to criminal background checks. A written plan was submitted May 9, 2025. I discussed this plan with Ms. Cudnik during today’s visit and will approve the plan pending completion of ABCMS roster. This plan shall be implemented immediately. A copy of the policy and procedures shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 5. Within one (1) week after notification from the Division the stipulation has been met for the policy and procedures related to staff/child ratios Ms. Cudnik shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the policy and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. The plan shall be submitted to be by June 26, 2025. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. Two gates were not locked and HVAC units were accessible to children on outdoor play area serving two year old and three year children. .0604 (m) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. A backpack containing sunscreen was on a bench located on the play ground serving two year old children. A backpack containing an epi pen was accessible to children located on a fence lower then five feet on a play area serving three year old children. .2820(b) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 17, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Administrative Action We discussed that I will continue to make visits in response to the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025. The Rules Review is scheduled for June 12, 2025, at 6 pm. All staff are required to attend. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 6/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:55 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit and to verify corrections of violations documented during the May 20, 2025, complaint visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, greeted me and assisted Ms. Cudnik with center supervision while we completed the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided information, and I reviewed documentation regarding the following confirmed allegations: The center did not follow policies and procedures regarding completing / providing incident reports is considered corrected. I viewed the incident log and Ms. Cudnik has implemented and reviewed procedures with all staff. A written compliance statement will be emailed to me today. The center did not follow rules and regulations regarding visitor/child interaction is considered corrected. Ms. Cudnik will email a compliance statement today. A policy is in place and all staff have been trained regarding a visitor holding a child in the center. Ms. Cudnik provided information, and I reviewed documentation regarding the following violation: Ms. Cudnik stated that all staff members have a signed Shaken Baby Policy on file. This violation is considered corrected. There have been no new staff members hired since the last visit. The center has hired a new Assistant Director. She is waiting for CBC approval and will not be in the center to work until the qualifying letter is approved and on file. During today’s visit, Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough to monitor all areas. During the walkthrough, I observed children engaged in personal care routines, outdoor play, and circle time. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. While monitoring staff/child ratio, I observed a back pack containing sunscreen in a baggie on a bench located on the play area for two-year-olds accessible to children. I observed an epi-pen in a backpack accessible to children on the playground serving three year olds. I observed the gates to HVAC units on two outdoor play areas unlocked and accessible to children. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik and I met to discuss the following stipulations included in the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • North Carolina General Statute § 110-90.2(b)(d) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e) regarding criminal background check requirements. All staff are current with CBC letters and the new policies submitted May 9, 2025, were reviewed. The ABCMS Roster is complete with the exception of four (4) staff members requiring additional documentation. Ms. Cudnik stated she will email me when all staff have been entered • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818 regarding enhanced staff/child ratios. During a walkthrough of the center, I observed enhanced staff/ratios in compliance. I observed two (2) violations today. Please see the description in the violations section of this Visit Summary. 2. Within one (1) week after the Notice is received, Kate Cudnik, administrator, shall contact Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant, 8801 Crosstimbers Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215, telephone number 980-748-6270, email lisa.eddins-smith@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Special emphasis shall be placed on violations documented in this Notice. The rule review training is scheduled to be completed by Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant, Thursday, July 12, 2025, from 6-8 pm. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the required rules review training is completed, Ms. Cudnik shall develop the facility’s staff/child ratios policy and procedures to describe, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate staff/child ratios of children. The written policy and procedures shall be submitted to Ms. Eddins-Smith for review. These policies shall be submitted on or before June 26, 2025, for my review and approval. 4. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Cudnik, shall develop a written plan that describes, in detail, the steps that will be taken to ensure compliance with child care requirements related to criminal background checks. A written plan was submitted May 9, 2025. I discussed this plan with Ms. Cudnik during today’s visit and will approve the plan pending completion of ABCMS roster. This plan shall be implemented immediately. A copy of the policy and procedures shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 5. Within one (1) week after notification from the Division the stipulation has been met for the policy and procedures related to staff/child ratios Ms. Cudnik shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the policy and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. The plan shall be submitted to be by June 26, 2025. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. Two gates were not locked and HVAC units were accessible to children on outdoor play area serving two year old and three year children. .0604 (m) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. A backpack containing sunscreen was on a bench located on the play ground serving two year old children. A backpack containing an epi pen was accessible to children located on a fence lower then five feet on a play area serving three year old children. .2820(b) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 17, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Administrative Action We discussed that I will continue to make visits in response to the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025. The Rules Review is scheduled for June 12, 2025, at 6 pm. All staff are required to attend. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/3/2025 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 6/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:55 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit and to verify corrections of violations documented during the May 20, 2025, complaint visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025, posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, greeted me and assisted Ms. Cudnik with center supervision while we completed the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided information, and I reviewed documentation regarding the following confirmed allegations: The center did not follow policies and procedures regarding completing / providing incident reports is considered corrected. I viewed the incident log and Ms. Cudnik has implemented and reviewed procedures with all staff. A written compliance statement will be emailed to me today. The center did not follow rules and regulations regarding visitor/child interaction is considered corrected. Ms. Cudnik will email a compliance statement today. A policy is in place and all staff have been trained regarding a visitor holding a child in the center. Ms. Cudnik provided information, and I reviewed documentation regarding the following violation: Ms. Cudnik stated that all staff members have a signed Shaken Baby Policy on file. This violation is considered corrected. There have been no new staff members hired since the last visit. The center has hired a new Assistant Director. She is waiting for CBC approval and will not be in the center to work until the qualifying letter is approved and on file. During today’s visit, Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough to monitor all areas. During the walkthrough, I observed children engaged in personal care routines, outdoor play, and circle time. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. While monitoring staff/child ratio, I observed a back pack containing sunscreen in a baggie on a bench located on the play area for two-year-olds accessible to children. I observed an epi-pen in a backpack accessible to children on the playground serving three year olds. I observed the gates to HVAC units on two outdoor play areas unlocked and accessible to children. After the walkthrough, Ms. Cudnik and I met to discuss the following stipulations included in the Written Warning issued April 22, 2025: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • North Carolina General Statute § 110-90.2(b)(d) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e) regarding criminal background check requirements. All staff are current with CBC letters and the new policies submitted May 9, 2025, were reviewed. The ABCMS Roster is complete with the exception of four (4) staff members requiring additional documentation. Ms. Cudnik stated she will email me when all staff have been entered • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818 regarding enhanced staff/child ratios. During a walkthrough of the center, I observed enhanced staff/ratios in compliance. I observed two (2) violations today. Please see the description in the violations section of this Visit Summary. 2. Within one (1) week after the Notice is received, Kate Cudnik, administrator, shall contact Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant, 8801 Crosstimbers Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215, telephone number 980-748-6270, email lisa.eddins-smith@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Special emphasis shall be placed on violations documented in this Notice. The rule review training is scheduled to be completed by Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant, Thursday, July 12, 2025, from 6-8 pm. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the required rules review training is completed, Ms. Cudnik shall develop the facility’s staff/child ratios policy and procedures to describe, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate staff/child ratios of children. The written policy and procedures shall be submitted to Ms. Eddins-Smith for review. These policies shall be submitted on or before June 26, 2025, for my review and approval. 4. Within two (2) weeks after this Notice is received, Ms. Cudnik, shall develop a written plan that describes, in detail, the steps that will be taken to ensure compliance with child care requirements related to criminal background checks. A written plan was submitted May 9, 2025. I discussed this plan with Ms. Cudnik during today’s visit and will approve the plan pending completion of ABCMS roster. This plan shall be implemented immediately. A copy of the policy and procedures shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 5. Within one (1) week after notification from the Division the stipulation has been met for the policy and procedures related to staff/child ratios Ms. Cudnik shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the policy and procedures. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. The plan shall be submitted to be by June 26, 2025. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 828 Air conditioning units were accessible or did not have a guard to keep objects from being thrown into the unit. Two gates were not locked and HVAC units were accessible to children on outdoor play area serving two year old and three year children. .0604 (m) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. A backpack containing sunscreen was on a bench located on the play ground serving two year old children. A backpack containing an epi pen was accessible to children located on a fence lower then five feet on a play area serving three year old children. .2820(b) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 17, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance DCDEE Website I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Administrative Action We discussed that I will continue to make visits in response to the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025. The Rules Review is scheduled for June 12, 2025, at 6 pm. All staff are required to attend. Reminders Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0525-212L Visit Date: 5/20/2025 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 5/20/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements and to follow up following the May 6, 2025, complaint visit and to monitor CPR/First Aid skills test verification for an online class conducted April 15, 2025. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025 posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, and Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. I shared the allegations with Ms. Cudnik. She stated that she was aware of an incident which corresponds to the description of the allegations. The allegations are as follows: There are allegations of violations of the following childcare requirements: The center did not follow policies and procedures regarding completing / providing incident reports and suspension. The center did not follow rules and regulations regarding visitor/child interaction The center did not provide appropriate discipline. During today’s visit, Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough to monitor all areas. I interviewed three (3) staff members and the Director. During the walkthrough, I observed children engaged in personal care routines, lunch, and transition to rest time. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed several facility improvements since the last visit including repairs on walls and paint updated in several rooms. All hazardous materials were stored properly. I observed several doors and drawer locks marked to be repaired. During the walkthrough, I spoke with staff regarding CPR/First Aid skills test and confirmed that three (3) staff members issued cards April 15, 2025, completed a skills test at the facility May 14, 2025. The staff verified that the skills portion included infant, child and administering an Epi-Pen. Two (2) staff stated that the skills test was approximately ten (10 ) minutes, and one (1) staff stated that the skills test was approximately thirty (30) minutes. Additionally, it was stated that at least two (2) staff members completed the hand-on skills test and would take the online portion at a later date. There are three (3) new staff members. I reviewed CBC Letters and found in compliance. Prevention of Shaken Baby Policy was not on file for new staff, and a violation was cited. Findings: Based on reporter observations, staff interviews, review of parent handbook, review of director/parent meeting, emails as well as review of incident reports and incident logs the allegation that the center did not follow policies and procedures regarding completing / providing incident reports is confirmed. Following an incident on May 16, 2025, causing harm to another child, the parent was asked to pick up the child from school. At that time the parent of the child did not sign the incident report. The Director stated that the child was picked up from the office and the Incident Report was in the child’s classroom. The child has not returned to school. A violation for maintaining the Incident Log and placing all reports in the child’s file was cited. Incident reports were observed in several locations, and the incident log was not complete. Based on reporter observations, staff interviews, review of parent handbook, review of director/parent meeting, emails as well as review of incident reports and incident logs the allegation that the center did not follow policies and procedures regarding and following procedures regarding suspension is not confirmed. Incident reports prior to the May 16, 2025, incident were completed to include behavior logs for a child. The procedures were followed and documented according to the parent policies and a review of incident reports for the child in question. The NEST Incident Form for incidents regarding behavior were completed for any incident causing harm to another child or if the child left the room. Otherwise, informal conversations were shared as needed at pick-up. I observed a parent signature dated prior to the child’s enrollment stating The Nest Schools Parent Handbook had been provided and that the parent understood and accepted the policies of the facility. Per procedure, a parent meeting was conducted by the Director on May 9, 2025, to encourage parents to seek additional support. The Director provided community resources and recommended a pediatrician consult to assist with early intervention. Following the May 16, 2025, incident, the Director began working on a positive behavior intervention plan developed by The Nest Schools. However, the child did not returned to school. Based on reporter observations and staff interviews regarding the allegation that the center did not provide appropriate discipline is not confirmed. Incident reports were reviewed for two incidents involving a child spitting milk on another child’s food. It was reported and documented that after the first incident occurred on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The child was redirected and moved to the end of the same table for sanitation reasons and to reduce contamination. It was reported that the parent was notified at pick up of the eating arrangement in response to the milk spat. The second incident occurred on Monday, April 28, 2025. The child was redirected to a different table next to the other tables. It was reported that the parents were told of the incident at pick up and stated that the child had recently been taught to spit toothpaste in the sink. Based on interview with the Director regarding the allegation that the center did not follow rules and regulations regarding visitor/child interaction is confirmed. A visitor to the center held an infant in the lobby without parental consent and a criminal record letter on file. We discussed the violation cited at the complaint visit dated May 6, 2025. You will send me the items discussed regarding on-going compliance for transportation rules including cell phone usage. The items from this visit are considered corrected. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. An infant was held by a visitor without parental consent and a qualifying letter on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log was not up to date/maintained and reports were not filed in the child's file for review. .0802(g)(1-6) 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. Three (3) new staff members did not have the policy signed and on file prior to employment. .0608(d)(1-4) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 3, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed several resources available for your facility including The Healthy Social Behaviors Initiative and Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Policy Details can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Resources/Behavior-Management The NC Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion policy statement is a requirement of the CCDBG Reauthorization Act of 2014 that aims to prevent, reduce, and eliminate suspension and expulsion in early care and education settings. The Healthy Social Behaviors Initiative was established to address behavioral issues in young children by offering services designed to identify, prevent and modify challenging behaviors with a goal of reducing the expulsion rate and promoting social-emotional development of all children in NC licensed child care centers. The Project team consists of regional specialists, education specialists, and the project manager, ensuring that all 14 regions have access to the Healthy Social Behavior Initiative’s services. Child Care Resources Inc. (CCRI) provides overall project management for this initiative. https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors Contact Challenging Behavior Helpline: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline Join Social Emotional Connections https://nc-childcare-community-connections.mn.co/sign_in?from=https%3A%2F%2Fnc-childcare-community-connections.mn.co%2Fsettings%2Flanding-page DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Administrative Action We discussed that I will continue to make visits in response to the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025. The Rules Review is scheduled for June 12, 2025, at 6 pm. All staff are required to attend. CPR/First Aid Requirements We discussed that the CPR/First Aid Cards cannot be placed in personnel files as valid until the hand-on demonstrated skills tests are completed. The cards will need to be dated the day of the passed skills test completion. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0525-212L Visit Date: 5/20/2025 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 5/20/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of childcare requirements and to follow up following the May 6, 2025, complaint visit and to monitor CPR/First Aid skills test verification for an online class conducted April 15, 2025. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. I observed the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025 posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The compliance history was 79 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, and Sheila Reed, Educational Coordinator, greeted me. I explained the purpose of the visit. I shared the allegations with Ms. Cudnik. She stated that she was aware of an incident which corresponds to the description of the allegations. The allegations are as follows: There are allegations of violations of the following childcare requirements: The center did not follow policies and procedures regarding completing / providing incident reports and suspension. The center did not follow rules and regulations regarding visitor/child interaction The center did not provide appropriate discipline. During today’s visit, Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough to monitor all areas. I interviewed three (3) staff members and the Director. During the walkthrough, I observed children engaged in personal care routines, lunch, and transition to rest time. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I observed several facility improvements since the last visit including repairs on walls and paint updated in several rooms. All hazardous materials were stored properly. I observed several doors and drawer locks marked to be repaired. During the walkthrough, I spoke with staff regarding CPR/First Aid skills test and confirmed that three (3) staff members issued cards April 15, 2025, completed a skills test at the facility May 14, 2025. The staff verified that the skills portion included infant, child and administering an Epi-Pen. Two (2) staff stated that the skills test was approximately ten (10 ) minutes, and one (1) staff stated that the skills test was approximately thirty (30) minutes. Additionally, it was stated that at least two (2) staff members completed the hand-on skills test and would take the online portion at a later date. There are three (3) new staff members. I reviewed CBC Letters and found in compliance. Prevention of Shaken Baby Policy was not on file for new staff, and a violation was cited. Findings: Based on reporter observations, staff interviews, review of parent handbook, review of director/parent meeting, emails as well as review of incident reports and incident logs the allegation that the center did not follow policies and procedures regarding completing / providing incident reports is confirmed. Following an incident on May 16, 2025, causing harm to another child, the parent was asked to pick up the child from school. At that time the parent of the child did not sign the incident report. The Director stated that the child was picked up from the office and the Incident Report was in the child’s classroom. The child has not returned to school. A violation for maintaining the Incident Log and placing all reports in the child’s file was cited. Incident reports were observed in several locations, and the incident log was not complete. Based on reporter observations, staff interviews, review of parent handbook, review of director/parent meeting, emails as well as review of incident reports and incident logs the allegation that the center did not follow policies and procedures regarding and following procedures regarding suspension is not confirmed. Incident reports prior to the May 16, 2025, incident were completed to include behavior logs for a child. The procedures were followed and documented according to the parent policies and a review of incident reports for the child in question. The NEST Incident Form for incidents regarding behavior were completed for any incident causing harm to another child or if the child left the room. Otherwise, informal conversations were shared as needed at pick-up. I observed a parent signature dated prior to the child’s enrollment stating The Nest Schools Parent Handbook had been provided and that the parent understood and accepted the policies of the facility. Per procedure, a parent meeting was conducted by the Director on May 9, 2025, to encourage parents to seek additional support. The Director provided community resources and recommended a pediatrician consult to assist with early intervention. Following the May 16, 2025, incident, the Director began working on a positive behavior intervention plan developed by The Nest Schools. However, the child did not returned to school. Based on reporter observations and staff interviews regarding the allegation that the center did not provide appropriate discipline is not confirmed. Incident reports were reviewed for two incidents involving a child spitting milk on another child’s food. It was reported and documented that after the first incident occurred on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The child was redirected and moved to the end of the same table for sanitation reasons and to reduce contamination. It was reported that the parent was notified at pick up of the eating arrangement in response to the milk spat. The second incident occurred on Monday, April 28, 2025. The child was redirected to a different table next to the other tables. It was reported that the parents were told of the incident at pick up and stated that the child had recently been taught to spit toothpaste in the sink. Based on interview with the Director regarding the allegation that the center did not follow rules and regulations regarding visitor/child interaction is confirmed. A visitor to the center held an infant in the lobby without parental consent and a criminal record letter on file. We discussed the violation cited at the complaint visit dated May 6, 2025. You will send me the items discussed regarding on-going compliance for transportation rules including cell phone usage. The items from this visit are considered corrected. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. An infant was held by a visitor without parental consent and a qualifying letter on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log was not up to date/maintained and reports were not filed in the child's file for review. .0802(g)(1-6) 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. Three (3) new staff members did not have the policy signed and on file prior to employment. .0608(d)(1-4) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 3, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed several resources available for your facility including The Healthy Social Behaviors Initiative and Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Policy Details can be found here: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Resources/Behavior-Management The NC Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion policy statement is a requirement of the CCDBG Reauthorization Act of 2014 that aims to prevent, reduce, and eliminate suspension and expulsion in early care and education settings. The Healthy Social Behaviors Initiative was established to address behavioral issues in young children by offering services designed to identify, prevent and modify challenging behaviors with a goal of reducing the expulsion rate and promoting social-emotional development of all children in NC licensed child care centers. The Project team consists of regional specialists, education specialists, and the project manager, ensuring that all 14 regions have access to the Healthy Social Behavior Initiative’s services. Child Care Resources Inc. (CCRI) provides overall project management for this initiative. https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/healthy-social-behaviors Contact Challenging Behavior Helpline: https://www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline Join Social Emotional Connections https://nc-childcare-community-connections.mn.co/sign_in?from=https%3A%2F%2Fnc-childcare-community-connections.mn.co%2Fsettings%2Flanding-page DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Administrative Action We discussed that I will continue to make visits in response to the Administrative Action issued April 22, 2025. The Rules Review is scheduled for June 12, 2025, at 6 pm. All staff are required to attend. CPR/First Aid Requirements We discussed that the CPR/First Aid Cards cannot be placed in personnel files as valid until the hand-on demonstrated skills tests are completed. The cards will need to be dated the day of the passed skills test completion. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .1003 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-292L Visit Date: 5/6/2025 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 5/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough. I spoke with staff and monitored all areas for general safety The allegations are as follows: Staff used a cellular telephone or other two-way functioning voice communication device when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location. I shared the allegations with Ms. Cudnik. She confirmed that a child was on the bus at the time of the report and that the staff member had shared that she was using her cell phone. On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m. the reporter was at the intersection of Providence Road and Rea Road, when the reporter observed The Nest School bus, ID 60004279, also at the light. The driver of the bus was holding her phone to her right ear talking and laughing. The windows of the bus are painted so the reporter was not able to see if children were inside the bus. The reporter called Lisa Eddins-Smith, who is the consultant for this facility, and asked her to contact the facility to find out if they were on a field trip during that time. Ms. Smith spoke to the director, and they were not on a field trip. The driver was taking a school-age child to Lansdowne Elementary to be dropped off for the day. There was one child inside the bus. Findings: Based on reporter observations, phone conversation with the administrator on Wednesday April 23, review of attendance records and a interview with the administrator today, a staff member using a cellular phone when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location is confirmed. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Two groups totaling 21 three-year-old children were observed coming inside from the playground area to Space 8 with three (3) teachers. Ms. Cudnik immediately reminded the teachers that the group size needed to be maintained at 20. The teachers shared that one three-year-old child currently transitioning from the two-year-olds had joined the younger group today for outdoor play. When both classes came in at the same time, the group size was over by one. This was corrected immediately. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I reviewed the driver’s personnel file to verify CBC Qualifying Letter and current CPR/FA and found both in compliance. The current CPR/First Aid certification is good through 6/2025. I viewed an additional CPR/FA certification card provided to me by the staff member dated 4/15/2025. The staff members have not completed the hands-on portion of the training per discussion with two staff members. This will need to be completed in order to place the cards validly in the personnel file. The following violations was cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1796 Staff used a cellular telephone or other two-way functioning voice communication device when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location. On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, a staff member was using a cellular phone while a child was on the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(k) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Transportation We discussed reviewing the transportation rules with your drivers which can be found 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES. Specifically, when children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. CPR/First Aid Requirements We discussed that the CPR/First Aid Cards cannot be placed in personnel files as valid until the hand-on demonstrated skills tests are completed. The cards will need to be dated the day of the passed skills test completion. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-292L Visit Date: 5/6/2025 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 5/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough. I spoke with staff and monitored all areas for general safety The allegations are as follows: Staff used a cellular telephone or other two-way functioning voice communication device when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location. I shared the allegations with Ms. Cudnik. She confirmed that a child was on the bus at the time of the report and that the staff member had shared that she was using her cell phone. On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m. the reporter was at the intersection of Providence Road and Rea Road, when the reporter observed The Nest School bus, ID 60004279, also at the light. The driver of the bus was holding her phone to her right ear talking and laughing. The windows of the bus are painted so the reporter was not able to see if children were inside the bus. The reporter called Lisa Eddins-Smith, who is the consultant for this facility, and asked her to contact the facility to find out if they were on a field trip during that time. Ms. Smith spoke to the director, and they were not on a field trip. The driver was taking a school-age child to Lansdowne Elementary to be dropped off for the day. There was one child inside the bus. Findings: Based on reporter observations, phone conversation with the administrator on Wednesday April 23, review of attendance records and a interview with the administrator today, a staff member using a cellular phone when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location is confirmed. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Two groups totaling 21 three-year-old children were observed coming inside from the playground area to Space 8 with three (3) teachers. Ms. Cudnik immediately reminded the teachers that the group size needed to be maintained at 20. The teachers shared that one three-year-old child currently transitioning from the two-year-olds had joined the younger group today for outdoor play. When both classes came in at the same time, the group size was over by one. This was corrected immediately. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I reviewed the driver’s personnel file to verify CBC Qualifying Letter and current CPR/FA and found both in compliance. The current CPR/First Aid certification is good through 6/2025. I viewed an additional CPR/FA certification card provided to me by the staff member dated 4/15/2025. The staff members have not completed the hands-on portion of the training per discussion with two staff members. This will need to be completed in order to place the cards validly in the personnel file. The following violations was cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1796 Staff used a cellular telephone or other two-way functioning voice communication device when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location. On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, a staff member was using a cellular phone while a child was on the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(k) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Transportation We discussed reviewing the transportation rules with your drivers which can be found 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES. Specifically, when children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. CPR/First Aid Requirements We discussed that the CPR/First Aid Cards cannot be placed in personnel files as valid until the hand-on demonstrated skills tests are completed. The cards will need to be dated the day of the passed skills test completion. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-292L Visit Date: 5/6/2025 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 5/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik and I completed the walkthrough. I spoke with staff and monitored all areas for general safety The allegations are as follows: Staff used a cellular telephone or other two-way functioning voice communication device when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location. I shared the allegations with Ms. Cudnik. She confirmed that a child was on the bus at the time of the report and that the staff member had shared that she was using her cell phone. On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m. the reporter was at the intersection of Providence Road and Rea Road, when the reporter observed The Nest School bus, ID 60004279, also at the light. The driver of the bus was holding her phone to her right ear talking and laughing. The windows of the bus are painted so the reporter was not able to see if children were inside the bus. The reporter called Lisa Eddins-Smith, who is the consultant for this facility, and asked her to contact the facility to find out if they were on a field trip during that time. Ms. Smith spoke to the director, and they were not on a field trip. The driver was taking a school-age child to Lansdowne Elementary to be dropped off for the day. There was one child inside the bus. Findings: Based on reporter observations, phone conversation with the administrator on Wednesday April 23, review of attendance records and a interview with the administrator today, a staff member using a cellular phone when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location is confirmed. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Two groups totaling 21 three-year-old children were observed coming inside from the playground area to Space 8 with three (3) teachers. Ms. Cudnik immediately reminded the teachers that the group size needed to be maintained at 20. The teachers shared that one three-year-old child currently transitioning from the two-year-olds had joined the younger group today for outdoor play. When both classes came in at the same time, the group size was over by one. This was corrected immediately. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. I reviewed the driver’s personnel file to verify CBC Qualifying Letter and current CPR/FA and found both in compliance. The current CPR/First Aid certification is good through 6/2025. I viewed an additional CPR/FA certification card provided to me by the staff member dated 4/15/2025. The staff members have not completed the hands-on portion of the training per discussion with two staff members. This will need to be completed in order to place the cards validly in the personnel file. The following violations was cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1796 Staff used a cellular telephone or other two-way functioning voice communication device when there was not an emergency and when the vehicle was not parked in a safe location. On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, a staff member was using a cellular phone while a child was on the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(k) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 20, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. A follow-up visit will be conducted. 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Transportation We discussed reviewing the transportation rules with your drivers which can be found 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES. Specifically, when children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. CPR/First Aid Requirements We discussed that the CPR/First Aid Cards cannot be placed in personnel files as valid until the hand-on demonstrated skills tests are completed. The cards will need to be dated the day of the passed skills test completion. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0102 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .1719 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .1721 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2318 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-038L Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 08:55 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history was 80 % prior to today’s visit. Upon my arrival, Kate Cudnik, Director, greeted me and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Cudnik provided her Provisional Qualifying Letter approved March 27, 2025. Ms. Cudnik had an interview, so I completed the walkthrough and spoke with staff in each room regarding staff/child ratio and monitored all areas for general safety. Sheila Reed, Curriculum Coordinator, arrived after the walkthrough. A staff file and current CBC Letter was not on file for Ms. Reed. I verified her qualification in ABCMS. The allegations are as follows: Staff to child ratios are not being followed There are concerns that there is an unsafe environment During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms and interviewed six (6) teachers during the walkthrough. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Staff/child ratio was in compliance throughout the facility. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. In the room serving infants one (1) infant was eating was in a high chair located close to the entrance hallway while four (4) infants were on the carpet in the center of the room. Two (2) infants on the floor were crying while the caregiver tried to feed the propped infant on a Boppy while holding another. I asked the caregiver if the volume of the crying children allowed her to hear the child. I spoke with the teacher, and she repositioned herself and pulled the bottle away from the child propped on the pillow. I revisited the room after the walkthrough and another staff member was able to help her finish feeding the children. I interviewed two (2) administrators. Both shared that on March 20, 2025, a domestic threat was made to a staff member in which authorities were notified. The center locked down. Ms. Cudnik was on site moving into her office. She assumed the responsibility to act as an administrator, however, the CBC Qualifying Letter was not approved at the time. The Assistant Director was needed in a classroom. The Regional Director, Corinne Brylski was notified regarding the threat. During the staff interviews two (2) teachers stated that they had not been part of a fire drill or shelter in place drill. The lock down conducted March 20, 2025, was the first time they could recall sheltering in place and were unsure of the procedures. Both teachers have been at the center for over 4 months. The last shelter in place drill is documented October 16, 2024 and the last fire drill is documented December 9, 2024. Findings: Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined staff to child ratios are not being followed is confirmed. Three (3) staff confirmed that staff/child ratios have been out of compliance. Three (3) staff members stated that on March 20th, 2025, the ratio in the rooms serving twos, threes and fours were out of compliance for approximately 3 hours. It was confirmed that at least one classroom was operating with one teacher and seventeen children ages two-five. Based on interviews and observations regarding an unsafe environment due to a threat to the center is unconfirmed. After interviewing staff, I was unable to confirm a threat made to the center in February, 2025. No staff recalled an incident during that time frame. Based on interviews, staff did not recall the Assistant Director stating to not contact authorities or parents. During an incident on March 20, 2025 described by staff as documented in observations, I verified all procedures were followed including initiating a center lockdown, contacting law enforcement and notifying parents regarding the incidence. During the walk through today I observed general safety violations including uncovered outlets, plastic accessible to children under three, small parts which are repeated violations. I observed an unlocked closet door with a teacher’s purse containing hand sanitizer accessible to children. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 532 All children were not held or placed in feeding chairs or other appropriate apparatus to be fed. In Space 1 an infant was fed while propped on a Boppy. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 805 Fire drills were not practiced monthly and/or the drill record was incomplete. The last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. .0604(t); .0302(d)(5) 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. In Space 1, outlets were uncovered on a surge protector on the counter accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 5, a teacher's purse containing hand sanitizer was accessible to children in a unlocked closet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, 5, 6, and 7 plastic and small parts were accessible to children in unlocked drawers and cabinets. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. The Director, K. Cudnik did not have a CBC Letter on file prior to employment. The letter is dated March 27, 2025 and date of employment is March 3, 2025. Ms. Cudnik has been in the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. One new employee did not have a staff file for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The center was out of ratio for approximately three (3) hours Thursday, March 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One new employee, S. Reed did not have a qualifying letter on file at the facility. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last shelter in place or lockdown drill was conducted October 16, 2024. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before April 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance We discussed Administrative Actions and the repeated violations at the center. I shared that the center needs to be in compliance at all times. We discussed reviewing all childcare rules and previous visit summaries. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails We discussed submitting the Preservice Administrator Form to me. I requested this form during previous visits. Please provide the form to me Tuesday, April 1, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. We discussed record retention including attendance, children’s files and staff files. You are required to keep records according to the rules found at 10A NCAC 09 .2318 CHILD CARE CENTER RECORD RETENTION. We discussed record keeping for emergency drill logs. Please review all 10A NCAC 09 .1719 REQUIREMENTS FOR A SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT including the following: (15) conduct a monthly fire drill; (16) conduct a "shelter-in-place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .1721(e)(7); Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. We discussed maintaining ratio at all times by reviewing the following requirements with your staff: 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 We discussed monitoring compliance regularly and you shared a worksheet developed and implemented recently. If the center is at capacity we discussed, parents should be notified at arrival that the center is currently at capacity and that children are unable to stay. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .2203 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2809 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-105 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-076L Visit Date: 2/26/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 80 % prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and shared the allegations with Ms. Lewis. The reporter stated the following: 1. The center did not follow up to obtain immunization records for a child within thirty (30) days of enrollment. 2. On December 20, 2025, a child came home with a bite mark on the back and chest. On January 27, 2025, the same child came home with a goose egg on the forehead. Documentation was not provided for either incident. The reporter stated that the teachers are rotated often, and no one was able to provide information regarding who was supervising the child at the time of the incidents or who could answer questions about the incidents. No documentation was provided. The allegations are as follows: A child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance. Children are not being adequately supervised. During today’s visit, I monitored all classrooms, interviewed one (1) administrator, talked with Corinne Brylski, Regional Director by phone and interviewed four (4) teachers. I reviewed staff and children’s attendance records for December 20, 2024, and January 5, 2025, monitored immunization records and medical assessments for seven (7) currently enrolled and five (5) terminated children. Violations were cited. I monitored all incident reports dated from December 15, 2024 – January 30, 2025, and monitored the incident log. I found incident reports and incident log in compliance. I observed children engaged in center play, circle time, outdoor play, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Children were supervised. Ratio and permit restrictions regarding capacity for Space 10 were observed out of compliance. From 9:50 am – 10:37 am in Space 9 twenty-five (25) children ages 3-5 were combined with two (2) teachers. Space 10 is approved for twenty-two (22) children per permit restriction and the ratio for enhanced standards is 1/10 with a maximum group size of 20 children. At 10:37 am. Ms. Lewis was able to bring the center into compliance for ratio and group size meeting permit restrictions. While completing the visit summary, two school age children arrived at 12:20 pm. Ms. Lewis, Assistant Director, will be the teacher present with the school age children until lunch is over. Findings: Based on the information provided regarding concerns that a child’s immunization records were not completed within 30 days of attendance is substantiated. After reviewing children’s records, it was observed that immunization records were not obtained for one (1) current and two (2) formerly enrolled children. Additionally, medical assessments for four (4) formerly enrolled children were not on file. Medical assessments for one (1) child currently enrolled and two (2) children formerly enrolled were not obtained within 30 days. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that children not being adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. All staff interviewed stated that children are always supervised. Each staff member understood the supervision requirement and stated that the center maintains compliance with supervision at all times. Additionally, all staff reported that administration is notified if a child is injured, incident reports are completed, and parents are notified. Each staff member stated that policy is understood and followed. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1245 For each child, there was not at least 30 sq. ft. inside space per the total licensed capacity and 100 sq. ft. outside space for each child using the outdoor learning environment at any one time. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with two (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. The space is approved for 22 children. 10A NCAC 09 .2809(a) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. Four (4) children previously enrolled for over 30 days did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children currently or previously enrolled did not have a medical exam or health assessment on file within 30 days after enrollment. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Three (3) children did not have an immunization record on file within 30 days of enrollment. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Space 10 had 25 children ages 3-5 present with (2) teachers from 9:50 am - 10:37 am. This is a repeat violation. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. A follow-up visit will be conducted to monitor staff child ratios. On or before March 12, 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. Email the information to: Email the information to: Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance Corinne Brylski, Regional Director and I spoke by phone to discuss the corrective action, the child to staff ratio and new administrator. The center has employed a new director scheduled to begin Monday, March 3, 2025. Ms. Brylski stated she would monitor the facility, assist and assist Ms. Lewis to bring all items into compliance immediately. Please provide the preservice administrator form to me Monday, March 3, 2025 by email. The form is located under Provider Documents and Forms on our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please review the following requirements with your staff: NC General Statutes - Chapter 110 Article 7 § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. All child care facilities shall comply with all State laws and federal laws and local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the standards in this section shall be complied with by all child care facilities. However, none of the standards in this section apply to the school-age children of the operator of a child care facility but do apply to the preschool-age children of the operator. Children 13 years of age or older may receive child care on a voluntary basis provided all applicable required standards are met. The standards in this section, along with any other applicable State laws and federal laws or local ordinances, shall be the required standards for the issuance of a license by the Secretary under the policies and procedures of the Commission except that the Commission may, in its discretion, adopt less stringent standards for the licensing of facilities which provide care on a temporary, part-time, drop-in, seasonal, after-school or other than a full-time basis. (1) Medical Care and Sanitation. – The Commission for Public Health shall adopt rules which establish minimum sanitation standards for child care centers and their personnel. The sanitation rules adopted by the Commission for Public Health shall cover such matters as the cleanliness of floors, walls, ceilings, storage spaces, utensils, and other facilities; adequacy of ventilation; sanitation of water supply, lavatory facilities, toilet facilities, sewage disposal, food protection facilities, bactericidal treatment of eating and drinking utensils, and solid-waste storage and disposal; methods of food preparation and serving; infectious disease control; sleeping facilities; and other items and facilities as are necessary in the interest of the public health. The Commission for Public Health shall allow child care centers to use domestic kitchen equipment, provided appropriate temperature levels for heating, cooling, and storing are maintained. Child care centers that fry foods shall use commercial hoods. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. The Commission shall adopt rules for child care facilities to establish minimum requirements for child and staff health assessments and medical care procedures. These rules shall be developed in consultation with the Department. Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. The assessment shall be done by: (i) a licensed physician, (ii) the physician's authorized agent who is currently approved by the North Carolina Medical Board, or comparable certifying board in any state contiguous to North Carolina, (iii) a certified nurse practitioner, or (iv) a public health nurse meeting the Departments Standards for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program. However, no health assessment shall be required of any staff or child who is and has been in normal health when the staff, or the child's parent, guardian, or full-time custodian objects in writing to a health assessment on religious grounds which conform to the teachings and practice of any recognized church or religious denomination. 0A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS The center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes. Age Ratio Staff/Children Maximum Group Size 0 to 12 Months 1/5 10 1 to 2 Years 1/6 12 2 to 3 Years 1/9 18 3 to 4 Years 1/10 20 4 to 5 Years 1/13 25 5 to 6 Years 1/15 25 6 Years and Older 1/20 25 (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: 10A NCAC 09 .2203 WRITTEN WARNINGS A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: supervision of children; discipline, nurture, or care of children; staff/child ratio; group size; licensed capacity; permit restriction; CPR training; First Aid training; ITS-SIDS training; and criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110-90.2(b). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2203 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110- 90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-105 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 320 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 03:00 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 compliance with all applicable childcare requirements during a Routine Unannounced visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. The last Annual Compliance Visit was completed on July 30, 2024. The facility has a compliance history of 84% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were prominently posted. The following were monitored today: supervision, capacity, CPR, First Aid, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, approved space, provider records, program records, posted license, and permit restrictions. A sanitation inspection was completed January 9, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. A lockdown drill was conducted on October 16, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted December 9, 2024. Violations were cited. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. I explained the purpose of the visit and the items I would monitor today. Ms. Lewis explained to me that several teachers were out, and rooms had been combined in order to maintain ratio. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments. I observed children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Enhanced ratios were not met, and a violation was cited. In Space 8, nineteen children ages two – three were present with two (2) teachers. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed. I used worksheets from the last annual compliance visit dated July 30, 2024, to verify veteran staff CBC letters, First Aid/CPR and Special trainings. There have been eleven (11) new staff hired since the last annual compliance visit. All Files for the new staff were monitored and violations were cited. Upon review of staff files, I observed a CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju which appeared to be altered. I checked ABCMS to verify qualification and found S. Tirumalaraju is not qualified and that the application is in process. I interviewed Ms. Lewis regarding the tampering on the letter and she shared that the letter was not altered by her and would have been on file prior to her employment December 16, 2024. Then, Ms. Lewis and I both interviewed Ms. Tirumalaraju and she stated she had not tampered with the letter, nor had she turned in the altered letter when employed by the center October 28, 2024. She only turned in the Verification of Request for Out of State Background Check Information. I shared with both Ms. Lewis and Ms. Tirumalaraju that she would need to leave the facility and could not work until the approved qualifying letter was issued and on file at the center. I explained the falsified documents. Ms. Lewis adjusted the children in order to meet ratio and had Ms. Tirumalaraju leave. The following violations were cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection on file is dated January 5, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. A CBC Qualifying Letter for S. Tirumalaraju was altered. G.S. 110-91(14) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In Spaces 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 bottles and/or cups brought from home were not dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 1 white out was observed unlocked on the counter lower then five (5) feet. In Space 6 and Space 9 batteries were observed in unlocked drawers and a teacher storage bin accessible to children. In Space 8 paint daubers labeled keep out of reach of children were observed in the art area. In Space 9, cocoa butter stick labeled keep out of reach of children and batteries was observed on a counter in an unlocked teacher storage drawer. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 1, paper clips and baggies were observed on the counter accessible to children. In Space 4, a plastic bag on the fence was observed accessible to children. In Space 6, hair bandsand small stickers wre observed in an unlocked drawer. In Space 8 small legos, small puzzle pieces and a plastic bag on the counter were observed. .0604(q) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju hired October 28, 2024 does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current First Aid certification on file. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One (1) staff member does not have current CPR certification on file. .1102(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In Space 8 nineteen (19) children ages two-three were present with two (2) teachers. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member S. Tirumalaraju does not have a CBC Qualifying Letter on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In Space 4, a Dunkin Donut cup was observed on the counter accessible and in view to children .0901(i) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Three (3) staff members do not have training on file within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Compliance Statement: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 10, 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. A follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Lisa Eddins-Smith, Child Care Consultant Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. Technical Assistance: We discussed ratios must be met at all times. Please refer to the following rule: 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS We discussed the CBC Qualifying letter on file for S. Tirumalaraju. The letter on file is not on our letterhead. Please refer to the following General Statute regarding falsification of records: G.S. 110-91(14) (14) Any effort to falsify information provided to the Department shall be considered by the Secretary to be evidence of violation of this Article on the part of the operator or sponsor of the child care facility and shall constitute a cause for revoking or denying a license to such child care facility. We discussed updating the Staff and Training Worksheets immediately for monitoring staff records requirements and maintaining compliance. We discussed submitting the preservice administrator form to me once a new director is employed. The form can be found on our website under the provider forms and documents tab. ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Please review SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES for more information. Please review the following rule 10A NCAC 09 .2203 regarding WRITTEN WARNINGS: A written warning, which shall include a corrective action plan, may be issued to an operator in regard to any violation including, but not limited to, these situations: (1) a substantiation of one or more violations as a result of a complaint that do not meet the criteria for a maltreatment finding in accordance with G.S. 110-105.3(b)(3) but for which corrective action is needed; (2) citation of 16 or more violations of separate rules in a single visit where the operator does not meet the criteria of other administrative actions set forth in this Section; or (3) citation of one of the following violations on two consecutive visits: (a) supervision of children; (b) discipline, nurture, or care of children; (c) staff/child ratio; (d) group size; (e) licensed capacity; (f) permit restriction; (g) CPR training; (h) First Aid training; (i) ITS-SIDS training; and (j) criminal record check requirements regarding pre-service and three-year reassessments in accordance with G.S. 110- 90.2(b). Please review the following rule with your staff regarding plastic: 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages Please review the following rule with your staff regarding storage: 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE (b) Toxic substances, which include corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. Locked storage rooms and cabinets shall include those which are unlocked with a combination lock, electronic or magnetic device, keypad, key, or equivalent locking device. Keys and electronic or magnetic unlocking devices shall be kept out of the reach of a child and shall not be stored in the lock. Toxic substances shall be stored below or separate from medications and food. Any other product that is labeled "keep out of reach of children" and does not have any other warnings on the label shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but is not required to be kept in locked storage. For the purpose of Paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, a product shall be considered inaccessible to children when stored on a shelf or in an unlocked cabinet that is mounted a minimum vertical distance of five feet above the finished floor. (c) Non-aerosol sanitizing solutions, approved disinfectants, detergent solutions, hand antiseptics, and hand lotions shall be kept inaccessible to children when not in use, but are not required to be in locked storage. These solutions shall be labeled as sanitizing, disinfecting, or detergent solutions. Hand soap other than that which is in bulk containers is not required to be kept inaccessible to children or in locked storage. Bulk soaps shall be kept inaccessible to children. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. Understanding the New QRIS If you missed the information sessions on the QRIS Modernization, you can now watch recordings of the webinars for parents and providers, including one with live Spanish translation. Visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization for videos, new resources and updates. ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0703 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-147L Visit Date: 1/21/2025 Number Present: 72 Completed Date: 1/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:05 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 83% prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Kimberly Johnson, Director from Greensboro Center and Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. Corinne Brylski, Regional Director, arrived shortly to relieve Ms. Johnson for the day. I explained the purpose of the visit with Ms. Johnson and Ms. Lewis. I shared that Kathy Hodge emailed me Tuesday, January 14, 2025 stating she is no longer the Director of The Nest Schools. Ms. Hodge stated she has been on FMLA since December 30, 2024, and her termination date was effective January 13, 2025. According to the reporter, on January 8, 2025, a toddler was bitten on the leg by a classmate at 2:33 p.m. The bite broke the skin and bled. The parent was not made aware until arriving for pick-up at 4:20 p.m. The wound had not been cleaned. Dried blood was present. The allegations are as follows: First aid was not provided as required. An incident report was not provided to the parent as required. The facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents. During today’s visit, I monitored two (2) toddler classrooms, interviewed two (2) administrators and three (3) teachers. I reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan, the First Aid Poster, the parent handbook, three recent incident reports, the incident report associated with this incident and the incident log. Supervision and ratio were observed in compliance. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Upon arrival, an infant was heard crying and Ms. Johnson asked the Infant Teacher to console the baby while I was in the lobby. It was stated that it is the infant’s first day at the center. I monitored the program bulletin board. The current emergency care medical plan is posted and dated 1/2025. Ms. Johnson stated that the plan was updated and posted the week of January 13, 2025, following Kathy Hodge’s date of termination. The First Aid/ CPR poster is posted. I observed children in the two (2) toddler rooms today. They were engaged in center play, circle time, music, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Attendance records were in compliance in each classroom observed. Findings: Based on information provided by the administrators and the center staff interviewed a toddler in Space 4 was bitten following a transition from the playground to the classroom around 4:00 pm. The bite left a small scratch and the skin was broken. There were two (2) teachers in the room at the time. The caregivers immediately contacted the Assistant Director and applied ice to the bite. The Teacher Assistant completed an incident report and provided the report to the parent at time of pickup. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/25 signed by the parent. The time of the incident was documented as 4:10 pm. The first aid given is documented as cold compress. Based on the information provided regarding concerns of the facility did not provide first aid as required is substantiated. The staff did not wash the bite with water which is the center protocol as outlined on the First Aid poster posted on the program bulletin board . The Emergency Medical Care Plan was not followed as it listed the Director, The Assistant Director and another Lead Teacher in the facility as the person responsible for administering First Aid. The teacher Assistant applied the cold compress to the bite. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that an incident report was not provided to the parent as required is substantiated. The report was provided however it was not completed as required. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/2025. During the interview the Assistant Teacher stated she completed the report, gave it to the parent and spoke with the parent upon pick-up. However, the incident report does not have the cause of injury marked as bite and the time the parent was contacted is not documented. The Incident Log was reviewed and found not I compliance. The date of incident was documented as 1/9/2025 and the date the report was submitted was dated 1/10/2025. Based on interviews, observations, and records review that the facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents is substantiated. The Incident, Injury or Illness policy 42.0 states that one person is always on site who has received First Aid training, and that staff will administer basic first aid and TLC. I reviewed First Aid certifications and found that the staff on site are current and administered basic first aid according to the stated policy. However, the first aid administered did not follow the protocol posted that a bite will be washed with water. Only a cold compress was applied. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. The incident report dated 1/8/2025 did not have the time the parent was notified or the type of injury, bite, documented. .0802 (e) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log documentation had the wrong date of incident. The date of incident was logged in as 1/9/2025 and the date submitted was documented as 1/10/2025. .0802(g)(1-6) 873 Center staff did not follow the EMC plan. The EMC plan dated 12/2024 was in place the date of the incident. The person(s) responsible for administering First Aid did not administer first aid and the person(s) administering First Aid were not listed on the EMC. 10A NCAC 09.0802(a) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 3, 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. Email the information to: email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE Each child care center shall have a written plan that sets forth the steps to follow in the event of a child medical emergency. The plan shall be reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan is revised. This plan shall give the procedures to be followed to ensure that any child who becomes ill or is injured and requires medical attention while in care at the center receives appropriate medical attention. The following information shall be included in the center's emergency medical care plan: (1) The name of the person and at least one alternate, responsible for carrying out that plan of action, ensuring that appropriate medical care is given, and determining which of the following is needed: first aid given at the center for an injury or illness needing only minimal attention; and calling 911 in accordance with CPR or First Aid training recommendations. (2) The name of the person and one alternate, at the center responsible for: ensuring that the signed authorization described in Paragraph (d) of this Rule is taken with the ill or injured child to the medical facility; accompanying the ill or injured child to the medical facility; notifying a child's parents or emergency contact person about the illness or injury and where the child has been taken for treatment; obtaining substitute staff, if needed, to maintain required staff/child ratio and adequate supervision of children who remain in the center; and (3) A statement giving the location of the telephone located on the premises available for use in case of emergency. A telephone located in an office in the center that is sometimes locked during the time the children are present shall not be designated for use in an emergency. One person identified as the person or alternate responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan and ensuring that appropriate medical care is given shall: (1) be on the premises at all times; and (2) accompany children for off-premises activities. Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Each child's parent, legal guardian, or full-time custodian shall sign a statement authorizing the center to obtain medical attention for the child in an emergency. That statement shall be on file on the first day the child attends the center. It shall be easily accessible to staff so that it can be taken with the child whenever emergency medical treatment is necessary. The child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or the parent declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. When medical treatment is required by a health care professional, community clinic, or local health department as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care, a copy of the incident report shall be mailed to a representative of the Division within seven calendar days after the incident. An incident log shall be completed any time an incident report is completed. This log shall: (1) include the name of the child; (2) include the date of the incident; (3) include the date the incident report was submitted to the Division, if applicable; (4) include the name of the staff member who complete the incident report; (5) be cumulative and maintained in a separate file; and (6) be available for review by a representative of the Division. This log shall be completed on a form provided by the Division. A copy of the log may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/I/incident_log_i.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105723- 723. A First Aid information sheet shall be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. An information sheet may be requested free of charge from the North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at 1-800-367-2229. We discussed that Kathy Hodge is no longer the Administrator I reviewed the following Administrator rules, and I provided you with the Preservice Administrator Form to completed and returned to me: 10A NCAC 09 .0703 GENERAL STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (1) a copy of the credential certificate; Effective November 1, 2024 24 (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; (3) a dated copy of the request submitted by the individual to the Division for the assessment of equivalency status; or (4) documentation of enrollment in credential coursework. If the individual does not yet meet the staff qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8) when assuming lead teacher or administrative duties, the individual shall submit to the Division documentation of completion of the coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming the duties. We discussed and I recommend you reach out to Tissh Watson, tisshue.watson@mecklenburgcounty.nc.gov or 704-624-8460 for immediate, assistance when a bite penetrates and breaks the skin. I spoke with Ms. Watson Friday. January 17, 2025, and she is available to aid your administrator immediately as well as and provide future training for your staff. The protocol in Mecklenburg County is for the parent to contact the child’s physician immediately following a bite to determine next steps for treating and/or monitoring the bodily fluids exchange. We discussed that ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. There is also a NC Pre-K page that provides helpful information. Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-147L Visit Date: 1/21/2025 Number Present: 72 Completed Date: 1/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:05 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 83% prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Kimberly Johnson, Director from Greensboro Center and Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. Corinne Brylski, Regional Director, arrived shortly to relieve Ms. Johnson for the day. I explained the purpose of the visit with Ms. Johnson and Ms. Lewis. I shared that Kathy Hodge emailed me Tuesday, January 14, 2025 stating she is no longer the Director of The Nest Schools. Ms. Hodge stated she has been on FMLA since December 30, 2024, and her termination date was effective January 13, 2025. According to the reporter, on January 8, 2025, a toddler was bitten on the leg by a classmate at 2:33 p.m. The bite broke the skin and bled. The parent was not made aware until arriving for pick-up at 4:20 p.m. The wound had not been cleaned. Dried blood was present. The allegations are as follows: First aid was not provided as required. An incident report was not provided to the parent as required. The facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents. During today’s visit, I monitored two (2) toddler classrooms, interviewed two (2) administrators and three (3) teachers. I reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan, the First Aid Poster, the parent handbook, three recent incident reports, the incident report associated with this incident and the incident log. Supervision and ratio were observed in compliance. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Upon arrival, an infant was heard crying and Ms. Johnson asked the Infant Teacher to console the baby while I was in the lobby. It was stated that it is the infant’s first day at the center. I monitored the program bulletin board. The current emergency care medical plan is posted and dated 1/2025. Ms. Johnson stated that the plan was updated and posted the week of January 13, 2025, following Kathy Hodge’s date of termination. The First Aid/ CPR poster is posted. I observed children in the two (2) toddler rooms today. They were engaged in center play, circle time, music, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Attendance records were in compliance in each classroom observed. Findings: Based on information provided by the administrators and the center staff interviewed a toddler in Space 4 was bitten following a transition from the playground to the classroom around 4:00 pm. The bite left a small scratch and the skin was broken. There were two (2) teachers in the room at the time. The caregivers immediately contacted the Assistant Director and applied ice to the bite. The Teacher Assistant completed an incident report and provided the report to the parent at time of pickup. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/25 signed by the parent. The time of the incident was documented as 4:10 pm. The first aid given is documented as cold compress. Based on the information provided regarding concerns of the facility did not provide first aid as required is substantiated. The staff did not wash the bite with water which is the center protocol as outlined on the First Aid poster posted on the program bulletin board . The Emergency Medical Care Plan was not followed as it listed the Director, The Assistant Director and another Lead Teacher in the facility as the person responsible for administering First Aid. The teacher Assistant applied the cold compress to the bite. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that an incident report was not provided to the parent as required is substantiated. The report was provided however it was not completed as required. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/2025. During the interview the Assistant Teacher stated she completed the report, gave it to the parent and spoke with the parent upon pick-up. However, the incident report does not have the cause of injury marked as bite and the time the parent was contacted is not documented. The Incident Log was reviewed and found not I compliance. The date of incident was documented as 1/9/2025 and the date the report was submitted was dated 1/10/2025. Based on interviews, observations, and records review that the facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents is substantiated. The Incident, Injury or Illness policy 42.0 states that one person is always on site who has received First Aid training, and that staff will administer basic first aid and TLC. I reviewed First Aid certifications and found that the staff on site are current and administered basic first aid according to the stated policy. However, the first aid administered did not follow the protocol posted that a bite will be washed with water. Only a cold compress was applied. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. The incident report dated 1/8/2025 did not have the time the parent was notified or the type of injury, bite, documented. .0802 (e) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log documentation had the wrong date of incident. The date of incident was logged in as 1/9/2025 and the date submitted was documented as 1/10/2025. .0802(g)(1-6) 873 Center staff did not follow the EMC plan. The EMC plan dated 12/2024 was in place the date of the incident. The person(s) responsible for administering First Aid did not administer first aid and the person(s) administering First Aid were not listed on the EMC. 10A NCAC 09.0802(a) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 3, 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. Email the information to: email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE Each child care center shall have a written plan that sets forth the steps to follow in the event of a child medical emergency. The plan shall be reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan is revised. This plan shall give the procedures to be followed to ensure that any child who becomes ill or is injured and requires medical attention while in care at the center receives appropriate medical attention. The following information shall be included in the center's emergency medical care plan: (1) The name of the person and at least one alternate, responsible for carrying out that plan of action, ensuring that appropriate medical care is given, and determining which of the following is needed: first aid given at the center for an injury or illness needing only minimal attention; and calling 911 in accordance with CPR or First Aid training recommendations. (2) The name of the person and one alternate, at the center responsible for: ensuring that the signed authorization described in Paragraph (d) of this Rule is taken with the ill or injured child to the medical facility; accompanying the ill or injured child to the medical facility; notifying a child's parents or emergency contact person about the illness or injury and where the child has been taken for treatment; obtaining substitute staff, if needed, to maintain required staff/child ratio and adequate supervision of children who remain in the center; and (3) A statement giving the location of the telephone located on the premises available for use in case of emergency. A telephone located in an office in the center that is sometimes locked during the time the children are present shall not be designated for use in an emergency. One person identified as the person or alternate responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan and ensuring that appropriate medical care is given shall: (1) be on the premises at all times; and (2) accompany children for off-premises activities. Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Each child's parent, legal guardian, or full-time custodian shall sign a statement authorizing the center to obtain medical attention for the child in an emergency. That statement shall be on file on the first day the child attends the center. It shall be easily accessible to staff so that it can be taken with the child whenever emergency medical treatment is necessary. The child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or the parent declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. When medical treatment is required by a health care professional, community clinic, or local health department as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care, a copy of the incident report shall be mailed to a representative of the Division within seven calendar days after the incident. An incident log shall be completed any time an incident report is completed. This log shall: (1) include the name of the child; (2) include the date of the incident; (3) include the date the incident report was submitted to the Division, if applicable; (4) include the name of the staff member who complete the incident report; (5) be cumulative and maintained in a separate file; and (6) be available for review by a representative of the Division. This log shall be completed on a form provided by the Division. A copy of the log may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/I/incident_log_i.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105723- 723. A First Aid information sheet shall be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. An information sheet may be requested free of charge from the North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at 1-800-367-2229. We discussed that Kathy Hodge is no longer the Administrator I reviewed the following Administrator rules, and I provided you with the Preservice Administrator Form to completed and returned to me: 10A NCAC 09 .0703 GENERAL STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (1) a copy of the credential certificate; Effective November 1, 2024 24 (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; (3) a dated copy of the request submitted by the individual to the Division for the assessment of equivalency status; or (4) documentation of enrollment in credential coursework. If the individual does not yet meet the staff qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8) when assuming lead teacher or administrative duties, the individual shall submit to the Division documentation of completion of the coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming the duties. We discussed and I recommend you reach out to Tissh Watson, tisshue.watson@mecklenburgcounty.nc.gov or 704-624-8460 for immediate, assistance when a bite penetrates and breaks the skin. I spoke with Ms. Watson Friday. January 17, 2025, and she is available to aid your administrator immediately as well as and provide future training for your staff. The protocol in Mecklenburg County is for the parent to contact the child’s physician immediately following a bite to determine next steps for treating and/or monitoring the bodily fluids exchange. We discussed that ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. There is also a NC Pre-K page that provides helpful information. Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09.0802 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-147L Visit Date: 1/21/2025 Number Present: 72 Completed Date: 1/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:05 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 83% prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Kimberly Johnson, Director from Greensboro Center and Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. Corinne Brylski, Regional Director, arrived shortly to relieve Ms. Johnson for the day. I explained the purpose of the visit with Ms. Johnson and Ms. Lewis. I shared that Kathy Hodge emailed me Tuesday, January 14, 2025 stating she is no longer the Director of The Nest Schools. Ms. Hodge stated she has been on FMLA since December 30, 2024, and her termination date was effective January 13, 2025. According to the reporter, on January 8, 2025, a toddler was bitten on the leg by a classmate at 2:33 p.m. The bite broke the skin and bled. The parent was not made aware until arriving for pick-up at 4:20 p.m. The wound had not been cleaned. Dried blood was present. The allegations are as follows: First aid was not provided as required. An incident report was not provided to the parent as required. The facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents. During today’s visit, I monitored two (2) toddler classrooms, interviewed two (2) administrators and three (3) teachers. I reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan, the First Aid Poster, the parent handbook, three recent incident reports, the incident report associated with this incident and the incident log. Supervision and ratio were observed in compliance. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Upon arrival, an infant was heard crying and Ms. Johnson asked the Infant Teacher to console the baby while I was in the lobby. It was stated that it is the infant’s first day at the center. I monitored the program bulletin board. The current emergency care medical plan is posted and dated 1/2025. Ms. Johnson stated that the plan was updated and posted the week of January 13, 2025, following Kathy Hodge’s date of termination. The First Aid/ CPR poster is posted. I observed children in the two (2) toddler rooms today. They were engaged in center play, circle time, music, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Attendance records were in compliance in each classroom observed. Findings: Based on information provided by the administrators and the center staff interviewed a toddler in Space 4 was bitten following a transition from the playground to the classroom around 4:00 pm. The bite left a small scratch and the skin was broken. There were two (2) teachers in the room at the time. The caregivers immediately contacted the Assistant Director and applied ice to the bite. The Teacher Assistant completed an incident report and provided the report to the parent at time of pickup. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/25 signed by the parent. The time of the incident was documented as 4:10 pm. The first aid given is documented as cold compress. Based on the information provided regarding concerns of the facility did not provide first aid as required is substantiated. The staff did not wash the bite with water which is the center protocol as outlined on the First Aid poster posted on the program bulletin board . The Emergency Medical Care Plan was not followed as it listed the Director, The Assistant Director and another Lead Teacher in the facility as the person responsible for administering First Aid. The teacher Assistant applied the cold compress to the bite. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that an incident report was not provided to the parent as required is substantiated. The report was provided however it was not completed as required. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/2025. During the interview the Assistant Teacher stated she completed the report, gave it to the parent and spoke with the parent upon pick-up. However, the incident report does not have the cause of injury marked as bite and the time the parent was contacted is not documented. The Incident Log was reviewed and found not I compliance. The date of incident was documented as 1/9/2025 and the date the report was submitted was dated 1/10/2025. Based on interviews, observations, and records review that the facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents is substantiated. The Incident, Injury or Illness policy 42.0 states that one person is always on site who has received First Aid training, and that staff will administer basic first aid and TLC. I reviewed First Aid certifications and found that the staff on site are current and administered basic first aid according to the stated policy. However, the first aid administered did not follow the protocol posted that a bite will be washed with water. Only a cold compress was applied. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. The incident report dated 1/8/2025 did not have the time the parent was notified or the type of injury, bite, documented. .0802 (e) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log documentation had the wrong date of incident. The date of incident was logged in as 1/9/2025 and the date submitted was documented as 1/10/2025. .0802(g)(1-6) 873 Center staff did not follow the EMC plan. The EMC plan dated 12/2024 was in place the date of the incident. The person(s) responsible for administering First Aid did not administer first aid and the person(s) administering First Aid were not listed on the EMC. 10A NCAC 09.0802(a) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 3, 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. Email the information to: email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE Each child care center shall have a written plan that sets forth the steps to follow in the event of a child medical emergency. The plan shall be reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan is revised. This plan shall give the procedures to be followed to ensure that any child who becomes ill or is injured and requires medical attention while in care at the center receives appropriate medical attention. The following information shall be included in the center's emergency medical care plan: (1) The name of the person and at least one alternate, responsible for carrying out that plan of action, ensuring that appropriate medical care is given, and determining which of the following is needed: first aid given at the center for an injury or illness needing only minimal attention; and calling 911 in accordance with CPR or First Aid training recommendations. (2) The name of the person and one alternate, at the center responsible for: ensuring that the signed authorization described in Paragraph (d) of this Rule is taken with the ill or injured child to the medical facility; accompanying the ill or injured child to the medical facility; notifying a child's parents or emergency contact person about the illness or injury and where the child has been taken for treatment; obtaining substitute staff, if needed, to maintain required staff/child ratio and adequate supervision of children who remain in the center; and (3) A statement giving the location of the telephone located on the premises available for use in case of emergency. A telephone located in an office in the center that is sometimes locked during the time the children are present shall not be designated for use in an emergency. One person identified as the person or alternate responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan and ensuring that appropriate medical care is given shall: (1) be on the premises at all times; and (2) accompany children for off-premises activities. Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Each child's parent, legal guardian, or full-time custodian shall sign a statement authorizing the center to obtain medical attention for the child in an emergency. That statement shall be on file on the first day the child attends the center. It shall be easily accessible to staff so that it can be taken with the child whenever emergency medical treatment is necessary. The child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or the parent declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. When medical treatment is required by a health care professional, community clinic, or local health department as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care, a copy of the incident report shall be mailed to a representative of the Division within seven calendar days after the incident. An incident log shall be completed any time an incident report is completed. This log shall: (1) include the name of the child; (2) include the date of the incident; (3) include the date the incident report was submitted to the Division, if applicable; (4) include the name of the staff member who complete the incident report; (5) be cumulative and maintained in a separate file; and (6) be available for review by a representative of the Division. This log shall be completed on a form provided by the Division. A copy of the log may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/I/incident_log_i.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105723- 723. A First Aid information sheet shall be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. An information sheet may be requested free of charge from the North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at 1-800-367-2229. We discussed that Kathy Hodge is no longer the Administrator I reviewed the following Administrator rules, and I provided you with the Preservice Administrator Form to completed and returned to me: 10A NCAC 09 .0703 GENERAL STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (1) a copy of the credential certificate; Effective November 1, 2024 24 (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; (3) a dated copy of the request submitted by the individual to the Division for the assessment of equivalency status; or (4) documentation of enrollment in credential coursework. If the individual does not yet meet the staff qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8) when assuming lead teacher or administrative duties, the individual shall submit to the Division documentation of completion of the coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming the duties. We discussed and I recommend you reach out to Tissh Watson, tisshue.watson@mecklenburgcounty.nc.gov or 704-624-8460 for immediate, assistance when a bite penetrates and breaks the skin. I spoke with Ms. Watson Friday. January 17, 2025, and she is available to aid your administrator immediately as well as and provide future training for your staff. The protocol in Mecklenburg County is for the parent to contact the child’s physician immediately following a bite to determine next steps for treating and/or monitoring the bodily fluids exchange. We discussed that ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. There is also a NC Pre-K page that provides helpful information. Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-147L Visit Date: 1/21/2025 Number Present: 72 Completed Date: 1/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:05 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 83% prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Kimberly Johnson, Director from Greensboro Center and Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. Corinne Brylski, Regional Director, arrived shortly to relieve Ms. Johnson for the day. I explained the purpose of the visit with Ms. Johnson and Ms. Lewis. I shared that Kathy Hodge emailed me Tuesday, January 14, 2025 stating she is no longer the Director of The Nest Schools. Ms. Hodge stated she has been on FMLA since December 30, 2024, and her termination date was effective January 13, 2025. According to the reporter, on January 8, 2025, a toddler was bitten on the leg by a classmate at 2:33 p.m. The bite broke the skin and bled. The parent was not made aware until arriving for pick-up at 4:20 p.m. The wound had not been cleaned. Dried blood was present. The allegations are as follows: First aid was not provided as required. An incident report was not provided to the parent as required. The facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents. During today’s visit, I monitored two (2) toddler classrooms, interviewed two (2) administrators and three (3) teachers. I reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan, the First Aid Poster, the parent handbook, three recent incident reports, the incident report associated with this incident and the incident log. Supervision and ratio were observed in compliance. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Upon arrival, an infant was heard crying and Ms. Johnson asked the Infant Teacher to console the baby while I was in the lobby. It was stated that it is the infant’s first day at the center. I monitored the program bulletin board. The current emergency care medical plan is posted and dated 1/2025. Ms. Johnson stated that the plan was updated and posted the week of January 13, 2025, following Kathy Hodge’s date of termination. The First Aid/ CPR poster is posted. I observed children in the two (2) toddler rooms today. They were engaged in center play, circle time, music, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Attendance records were in compliance in each classroom observed. Findings: Based on information provided by the administrators and the center staff interviewed a toddler in Space 4 was bitten following a transition from the playground to the classroom around 4:00 pm. The bite left a small scratch and the skin was broken. There were two (2) teachers in the room at the time. The caregivers immediately contacted the Assistant Director and applied ice to the bite. The Teacher Assistant completed an incident report and provided the report to the parent at time of pickup. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/25 signed by the parent. The time of the incident was documented as 4:10 pm. The first aid given is documented as cold compress. Based on the information provided regarding concerns of the facility did not provide first aid as required is substantiated. The staff did not wash the bite with water which is the center protocol as outlined on the First Aid poster posted on the program bulletin board . The Emergency Medical Care Plan was not followed as it listed the Director, The Assistant Director and another Lead Teacher in the facility as the person responsible for administering First Aid. The teacher Assistant applied the cold compress to the bite. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that an incident report was not provided to the parent as required is substantiated. The report was provided however it was not completed as required. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/2025. During the interview the Assistant Teacher stated she completed the report, gave it to the parent and spoke with the parent upon pick-up. However, the incident report does not have the cause of injury marked as bite and the time the parent was contacted is not documented. The Incident Log was reviewed and found not I compliance. The date of incident was documented as 1/9/2025 and the date the report was submitted was dated 1/10/2025. Based on interviews, observations, and records review that the facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents is substantiated. The Incident, Injury or Illness policy 42.0 states that one person is always on site who has received First Aid training, and that staff will administer basic first aid and TLC. I reviewed First Aid certifications and found that the staff on site are current and administered basic first aid according to the stated policy. However, the first aid administered did not follow the protocol posted that a bite will be washed with water. Only a cold compress was applied. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. The incident report dated 1/8/2025 did not have the time the parent was notified or the type of injury, bite, documented. .0802 (e) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log documentation had the wrong date of incident. The date of incident was logged in as 1/9/2025 and the date submitted was documented as 1/10/2025. .0802(g)(1-6) 873 Center staff did not follow the EMC plan. The EMC plan dated 12/2024 was in place the date of the incident. The person(s) responsible for administering First Aid did not administer first aid and the person(s) administering First Aid were not listed on the EMC. 10A NCAC 09.0802(a) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 3, 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. Email the information to: email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE Each child care center shall have a written plan that sets forth the steps to follow in the event of a child medical emergency. The plan shall be reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan is revised. This plan shall give the procedures to be followed to ensure that any child who becomes ill or is injured and requires medical attention while in care at the center receives appropriate medical attention. The following information shall be included in the center's emergency medical care plan: (1) The name of the person and at least one alternate, responsible for carrying out that plan of action, ensuring that appropriate medical care is given, and determining which of the following is needed: first aid given at the center for an injury or illness needing only minimal attention; and calling 911 in accordance with CPR or First Aid training recommendations. (2) The name of the person and one alternate, at the center responsible for: ensuring that the signed authorization described in Paragraph (d) of this Rule is taken with the ill or injured child to the medical facility; accompanying the ill or injured child to the medical facility; notifying a child's parents or emergency contact person about the illness or injury and where the child has been taken for treatment; obtaining substitute staff, if needed, to maintain required staff/child ratio and adequate supervision of children who remain in the center; and (3) A statement giving the location of the telephone located on the premises available for use in case of emergency. A telephone located in an office in the center that is sometimes locked during the time the children are present shall not be designated for use in an emergency. One person identified as the person or alternate responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan and ensuring that appropriate medical care is given shall: (1) be on the premises at all times; and (2) accompany children for off-premises activities. Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Each child's parent, legal guardian, or full-time custodian shall sign a statement authorizing the center to obtain medical attention for the child in an emergency. That statement shall be on file on the first day the child attends the center. It shall be easily accessible to staff so that it can be taken with the child whenever emergency medical treatment is necessary. The child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or the parent declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. When medical treatment is required by a health care professional, community clinic, or local health department as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care, a copy of the incident report shall be mailed to a representative of the Division within seven calendar days after the incident. An incident log shall be completed any time an incident report is completed. This log shall: (1) include the name of the child; (2) include the date of the incident; (3) include the date the incident report was submitted to the Division, if applicable; (4) include the name of the staff member who complete the incident report; (5) be cumulative and maintained in a separate file; and (6) be available for review by a representative of the Division. This log shall be completed on a form provided by the Division. A copy of the log may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/I/incident_log_i.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105723- 723. A First Aid information sheet shall be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. An information sheet may be requested free of charge from the North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at 1-800-367-2229. We discussed that Kathy Hodge is no longer the Administrator I reviewed the following Administrator rules, and I provided you with the Preservice Administrator Form to completed and returned to me: 10A NCAC 09 .0703 GENERAL STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (1) a copy of the credential certificate; Effective November 1, 2024 24 (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; (3) a dated copy of the request submitted by the individual to the Division for the assessment of equivalency status; or (4) documentation of enrollment in credential coursework. If the individual does not yet meet the staff qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8) when assuming lead teacher or administrative duties, the individual shall submit to the Division documentation of completion of the coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming the duties. We discussed and I recommend you reach out to Tissh Watson, tisshue.watson@mecklenburgcounty.nc.gov or 704-624-8460 for immediate, assistance when a bite penetrates and breaks the skin. I spoke with Ms. Watson Friday. January 17, 2025, and she is available to aid your administrator immediately as well as and provide future training for your staff. The protocol in Mecklenburg County is for the parent to contact the child’s physician immediately following a bite to determine next steps for treating and/or monitoring the bodily fluids exchange. We discussed that ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. There is also a NC Pre-K page that provides helpful information. Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-147L Visit Date: 1/21/2025 Number Present: 72 Completed Date: 1/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:05 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 83% prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Kimberly Johnson, Director from Greensboro Center and Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. Corinne Brylski, Regional Director, arrived shortly to relieve Ms. Johnson for the day. I explained the purpose of the visit with Ms. Johnson and Ms. Lewis. I shared that Kathy Hodge emailed me Tuesday, January 14, 2025 stating she is no longer the Director of The Nest Schools. Ms. Hodge stated she has been on FMLA since December 30, 2024, and her termination date was effective January 13, 2025. According to the reporter, on January 8, 2025, a toddler was bitten on the leg by a classmate at 2:33 p.m. The bite broke the skin and bled. The parent was not made aware until arriving for pick-up at 4:20 p.m. The wound had not been cleaned. Dried blood was present. The allegations are as follows: First aid was not provided as required. An incident report was not provided to the parent as required. The facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents. During today’s visit, I monitored two (2) toddler classrooms, interviewed two (2) administrators and three (3) teachers. I reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan, the First Aid Poster, the parent handbook, three recent incident reports, the incident report associated with this incident and the incident log. Supervision and ratio were observed in compliance. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Upon arrival, an infant was heard crying and Ms. Johnson asked the Infant Teacher to console the baby while I was in the lobby. It was stated that it is the infant’s first day at the center. I monitored the program bulletin board. The current emergency care medical plan is posted and dated 1/2025. Ms. Johnson stated that the plan was updated and posted the week of January 13, 2025, following Kathy Hodge’s date of termination. The First Aid/ CPR poster is posted. I observed children in the two (2) toddler rooms today. They were engaged in center play, circle time, music, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Attendance records were in compliance in each classroom observed. Findings: Based on information provided by the administrators and the center staff interviewed a toddler in Space 4 was bitten following a transition from the playground to the classroom around 4:00 pm. The bite left a small scratch and the skin was broken. There were two (2) teachers in the room at the time. The caregivers immediately contacted the Assistant Director and applied ice to the bite. The Teacher Assistant completed an incident report and provided the report to the parent at time of pickup. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/25 signed by the parent. The time of the incident was documented as 4:10 pm. The first aid given is documented as cold compress. Based on the information provided regarding concerns of the facility did not provide first aid as required is substantiated. The staff did not wash the bite with water which is the center protocol as outlined on the First Aid poster posted on the program bulletin board . The Emergency Medical Care Plan was not followed as it listed the Director, The Assistant Director and another Lead Teacher in the facility as the person responsible for administering First Aid. The teacher Assistant applied the cold compress to the bite. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that an incident report was not provided to the parent as required is substantiated. The report was provided however it was not completed as required. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/2025. During the interview the Assistant Teacher stated she completed the report, gave it to the parent and spoke with the parent upon pick-up. However, the incident report does not have the cause of injury marked as bite and the time the parent was contacted is not documented. The Incident Log was reviewed and found not I compliance. The date of incident was documented as 1/9/2025 and the date the report was submitted was dated 1/10/2025. Based on interviews, observations, and records review that the facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents is substantiated. The Incident, Injury or Illness policy 42.0 states that one person is always on site who has received First Aid training, and that staff will administer basic first aid and TLC. I reviewed First Aid certifications and found that the staff on site are current and administered basic first aid according to the stated policy. However, the first aid administered did not follow the protocol posted that a bite will be washed with water. Only a cold compress was applied. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. The incident report dated 1/8/2025 did not have the time the parent was notified or the type of injury, bite, documented. .0802 (e) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log documentation had the wrong date of incident. The date of incident was logged in as 1/9/2025 and the date submitted was documented as 1/10/2025. .0802(g)(1-6) 873 Center staff did not follow the EMC plan. The EMC plan dated 12/2024 was in place the date of the incident. The person(s) responsible for administering First Aid did not administer first aid and the person(s) administering First Aid were not listed on the EMC. 10A NCAC 09.0802(a) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 3, 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. Email the information to: email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE Each child care center shall have a written plan that sets forth the steps to follow in the event of a child medical emergency. The plan shall be reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan is revised. This plan shall give the procedures to be followed to ensure that any child who becomes ill or is injured and requires medical attention while in care at the center receives appropriate medical attention. The following information shall be included in the center's emergency medical care plan: (1) The name of the person and at least one alternate, responsible for carrying out that plan of action, ensuring that appropriate medical care is given, and determining which of the following is needed: first aid given at the center for an injury or illness needing only minimal attention; and calling 911 in accordance with CPR or First Aid training recommendations. (2) The name of the person and one alternate, at the center responsible for: ensuring that the signed authorization described in Paragraph (d) of this Rule is taken with the ill or injured child to the medical facility; accompanying the ill or injured child to the medical facility; notifying a child's parents or emergency contact person about the illness or injury and where the child has been taken for treatment; obtaining substitute staff, if needed, to maintain required staff/child ratio and adequate supervision of children who remain in the center; and (3) A statement giving the location of the telephone located on the premises available for use in case of emergency. A telephone located in an office in the center that is sometimes locked during the time the children are present shall not be designated for use in an emergency. One person identified as the person or alternate responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan and ensuring that appropriate medical care is given shall: (1) be on the premises at all times; and (2) accompany children for off-premises activities. Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Each child's parent, legal guardian, or full-time custodian shall sign a statement authorizing the center to obtain medical attention for the child in an emergency. That statement shall be on file on the first day the child attends the center. It shall be easily accessible to staff so that it can be taken with the child whenever emergency medical treatment is necessary. The child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or the parent declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. When medical treatment is required by a health care professional, community clinic, or local health department as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care, a copy of the incident report shall be mailed to a representative of the Division within seven calendar days after the incident. An incident log shall be completed any time an incident report is completed. This log shall: (1) include the name of the child; (2) include the date of the incident; (3) include the date the incident report was submitted to the Division, if applicable; (4) include the name of the staff member who complete the incident report; (5) be cumulative and maintained in a separate file; and (6) be available for review by a representative of the Division. This log shall be completed on a form provided by the Division. A copy of the log may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/I/incident_log_i.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105723- 723. A First Aid information sheet shall be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. An information sheet may be requested free of charge from the North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at 1-800-367-2229. We discussed that Kathy Hodge is no longer the Administrator I reviewed the following Administrator rules, and I provided you with the Preservice Administrator Form to completed and returned to me: 10A NCAC 09 .0703 GENERAL STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (1) a copy of the credential certificate; Effective November 1, 2024 24 (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; (3) a dated copy of the request submitted by the individual to the Division for the assessment of equivalency status; or (4) documentation of enrollment in credential coursework. If the individual does not yet meet the staff qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8) when assuming lead teacher or administrative duties, the individual shall submit to the Division documentation of completion of the coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming the duties. We discussed and I recommend you reach out to Tissh Watson, tisshue.watson@mecklenburgcounty.nc.gov or 704-624-8460 for immediate, assistance when a bite penetrates and breaks the skin. I spoke with Ms. Watson Friday. January 17, 2025, and she is available to aid your administrator immediately as well as and provide future training for your staff. The protocol in Mecklenburg County is for the parent to contact the child’s physician immediately following a bite to determine next steps for treating and/or monitoring the bodily fluids exchange. We discussed that ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. There is also a NC Pre-K page that provides helpful information. Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: LISA EDDINS-SMITH Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-147L Visit Date: 1/21/2025 Number Present: 72 Completed Date: 1/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:05 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. The center has a five-star license issued January 23, 2024, meeting enhanced ratio and space. The compliance history 83% prior to today’s visit Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Kimberly Johnson, Director from Greensboro Center and Tierra Lewis, Assistant Director. Corinne Brylski, Regional Director, arrived shortly to relieve Ms. Johnson for the day. I explained the purpose of the visit with Ms. Johnson and Ms. Lewis. I shared that Kathy Hodge emailed me Tuesday, January 14, 2025 stating she is no longer the Director of The Nest Schools. Ms. Hodge stated she has been on FMLA since December 30, 2024, and her termination date was effective January 13, 2025. According to the reporter, on January 8, 2025, a toddler was bitten on the leg by a classmate at 2:33 p.m. The bite broke the skin and bled. The parent was not made aware until arriving for pick-up at 4:20 p.m. The wound had not been cleaned. Dried blood was present. The allegations are as follows: First aid was not provided as required. An incident report was not provided to the parent as required. The facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents. During today’s visit, I monitored two (2) toddler classrooms, interviewed two (2) administrators and three (3) teachers. I reviewed the Emergency Medical Care Plan, the First Aid Poster, the parent handbook, three recent incident reports, the incident report associated with this incident and the incident log. Supervision and ratio were observed in compliance. Nurturing and caring tones were heard with the children throughout the facility. Upon arrival, an infant was heard crying and Ms. Johnson asked the Infant Teacher to console the baby while I was in the lobby. It was stated that it is the infant’s first day at the center. I monitored the program bulletin board. The current emergency care medical plan is posted and dated 1/2025. Ms. Johnson stated that the plan was updated and posted the week of January 13, 2025, following Kathy Hodge’s date of termination. The First Aid/ CPR poster is posted. I observed children in the two (2) toddler rooms today. They were engaged in center play, circle time, music, teacher directed activities, and personal care routines. Attendance records were in compliance in each classroom observed. Findings: Based on information provided by the administrators and the center staff interviewed a toddler in Space 4 was bitten following a transition from the playground to the classroom around 4:00 pm. The bite left a small scratch and the skin was broken. There were two (2) teachers in the room at the time. The caregivers immediately contacted the Assistant Director and applied ice to the bite. The Teacher Assistant completed an incident report and provided the report to the parent at time of pickup. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/25 signed by the parent. The time of the incident was documented as 4:10 pm. The first aid given is documented as cold compress. Based on the information provided regarding concerns of the facility did not provide first aid as required is substantiated. The staff did not wash the bite with water which is the center protocol as outlined on the First Aid poster posted on the program bulletin board . The Emergency Medical Care Plan was not followed as it listed the Director, The Assistant Director and another Lead Teacher in the facility as the person responsible for administering First Aid. The teacher Assistant applied the cold compress to the bite. Based on interviews, observations, and records review it was determined that an incident report was not provided to the parent as required is substantiated. The report was provided however it was not completed as required. I reviewed the incident report dated 1/8/2025. During the interview the Assistant Teacher stated she completed the report, gave it to the parent and spoke with the parent upon pick-up. However, the incident report does not have the cause of injury marked as bite and the time the parent was contacted is not documented. The Incident Log was reviewed and found not I compliance. The date of incident was documented as 1/9/2025 and the date the report was submitted was dated 1/10/2025. Based on interviews, observations, and records review that the facility did not follow its procedures regarding injury incidents is substantiated. The Incident, Injury or Illness policy 42.0 states that one person is always on site who has received First Aid training, and that staff will administer basic first aid and TLC. I reviewed First Aid certifications and found that the staff on site are current and administered basic first aid according to the stated policy. However, the first aid administered did not follow the protocol posted that a bite will be washed with water. Only a cold compress was applied. The following violations cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. The incident report dated 1/8/2025 did not have the time the parent was notified or the type of injury, bite, documented. .0802 (e) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. The Incident Log documentation had the wrong date of incident. The date of incident was logged in as 1/9/2025 and the date submitted was documented as 1/10/2025. .0802(g)(1-6) 873 Center staff did not follow the EMC plan. The EMC plan dated 12/2024 was in place the date of the incident. The person(s) responsible for administering First Aid did not administer first aid and the person(s) administering First Aid were not listed on the EMC. 10A NCAC 09.0802(a) Compliance Statement Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 3, 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. Email the information to: email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE Each child care center shall have a written plan that sets forth the steps to follow in the event of a child medical emergency. The plan shall be reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan is revised. This plan shall give the procedures to be followed to ensure that any child who becomes ill or is injured and requires medical attention while in care at the center receives appropriate medical attention. The following information shall be included in the center's emergency medical care plan: (1) The name of the person and at least one alternate, responsible for carrying out that plan of action, ensuring that appropriate medical care is given, and determining which of the following is needed: first aid given at the center for an injury or illness needing only minimal attention; and calling 911 in accordance with CPR or First Aid training recommendations. (2) The name of the person and one alternate, at the center responsible for: ensuring that the signed authorization described in Paragraph (d) of this Rule is taken with the ill or injured child to the medical facility; accompanying the ill or injured child to the medical facility; notifying a child's parents or emergency contact person about the illness or injury and where the child has been taken for treatment; obtaining substitute staff, if needed, to maintain required staff/child ratio and adequate supervision of children who remain in the center; and (3) A statement giving the location of the telephone located on the premises available for use in case of emergency. A telephone located in an office in the center that is sometimes locked during the time the children are present shall not be designated for use in an emergency. One person identified as the person or alternate responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan and ensuring that appropriate medical care is given shall: (1) be on the premises at all times; and (2) accompany children for off-premises activities. Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Each child's parent, legal guardian, or full-time custodian shall sign a statement authorizing the center to obtain medical attention for the child in an emergency. That statement shall be on file on the first day the child attends the center. It shall be easily accessible to staff so that it can be taken with the child whenever emergency medical treatment is necessary. The child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or the parent declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/DCDEE-0058.pdf. When medical treatment is required by a health care professional, community clinic, or local health department as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care, a copy of the incident report shall be mailed to a representative of the Division within seven calendar days after the incident. An incident log shall be completed any time an incident report is completed. This log shall: (1) include the name of the child; (2) include the date of the incident; (3) include the date the incident report was submitted to the Division, if applicable; (4) include the name of the staff member who complete the incident report; (5) be cumulative and maintained in a separate file; and (6) be available for review by a representative of the Division. This log shall be completed on a form provided by the Division. A copy of the log may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/I/incident_log_i.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105723- 723. A First Aid information sheet shall be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. An information sheet may be requested free of charge from the North Carolina Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at 1-800-367-2229. We discussed that Kathy Hodge is no longer the Administrator I reviewed the following Administrator rules, and I provided you with the Preservice Administrator Form to completed and returned to me: 10A NCAC 09 .0703 GENERAL STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Within six months of an individual assuming lead teacher or child care administrator duties, each center shall maintain the following information in the individual's staff record: (1) a copy of the credential certificate; Effective November 1, 2024 24 (2) a copy of notification from the Division that the individual meets the equivalency or that the individual does not meet the equivalency and must enroll in coursework; (3) a dated copy of the request submitted by the individual to the Division for the assessment of equivalency status; or (4) documentation of enrollment in credential coursework. If the individual does not yet meet the staff qualifications required by G.S. 110-91(8) when assuming lead teacher or administrative duties, the individual shall submit to the Division documentation of completion of the coursework or credential to be considered for equivalency within six months of assuming the duties. We discussed and I recommend you reach out to Tissh Watson, tisshue.watson@mecklenburgcounty.nc.gov or 704-624-8460 for immediate, assistance when a bite penetrates and breaks the skin. I spoke with Ms. Watson Friday. January 17, 2025, and she is available to aid your administrator immediately as well as and provide future training for your staff. The protocol in Mecklenburg County is for the parent to contact the child’s physician immediately following a bite to determine next steps for treating and/or monitoring the bodily fluids exchange. We discussed that ABCMS (Criminal Background System): North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Reminders: Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. DCDEE Website: I encourage you to utilize the DCDEE website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, on a regular basis. All the laws, rules and regulations, item number listing, sanitation requirements, and provider documents can be found on the website. Additionally, there are many resources such as DCDEE Moodle where you can complete health and safety trainings free of charge. The What’s New tab provides current information that is sent out through blast emails. There is also a NC Pre-K page that provides helpful information. Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.ncrlap.org/ for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Until February 1, 2025, NCRLAP will use the Revised editions for official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License (for new licensees or upon request.) At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns regarding today’s visit, please contact me at Lisa.Eddins-Smith@dhhs.nc.gov or 980-748-6270. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/30/2024 Number Present: 79 Completed Date: 7/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 370 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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. K. Hodge, Director, assisted me with the visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. A sanitation inspection was completed July 3, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted January 5, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. A lockdown drill was conducted on June 7, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted June 7, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 29, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Ten percent of children’s records were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been twelve new staff hired since the third temporary time period visit was conducted on January 3, 2024. Files for the new staff were monitored as well as ten percent of existing staff files. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In space #3, two sippy cups containing milk was present with no date on either cup. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 830 A First Aid information sheet was not posted in a place for referral and/or the information sheet did not include all the required information. A First Aid information sheet was not posted. .0802(h) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #1 and #2, Camilia liquid drops for teething was present for two children. The liquid drops were not in the original packaging. In space #1 and #2, diaper creams present for four children was not labeled with the child's name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. The safe sleep policy was not posted in space #1. .0606(b) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member with a hire date of June 17, 2024 had a medical report on file dated July 9, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 22, 2024 had a medical report on file dated January 21, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member's emergency information was dated July 21, 2023. .0701(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. Two staff members First Aid training was completed with an agency that is not approved. One staff member's First Aid training was completed by an approved agency however, the course was not approved. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member's CPR training was completed with an agency that is not approved. One staff member's CPR training was completed by an approved agency however, the course was not approved. .1102(d) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In child are centers, toilet tissue paper shall be provided in each toilet room and stored in a clean, dry place. The toilet room shall include or be adjacent to a handwash lavatory. Storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. In space #4, there was an art easel, dirty laundry, and child size steps being stored in the restroom. This is a violation of requirement 15A NCAC 18A .2817. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 13, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: -Medical reports for staff must be on file prior to employment. Emergency information for all staff must be on file the first day of employment and annually after. -A First Aid information sheet must be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. The Director had previously ordered information sheets from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center. The First Aid information sheet was included in the order. The information sheet was posted at the entrance of the facility during the visit. - The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. The safe sleep policy was posted in the classroom during the visit. - All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid and CPR appropriate to the ages of children in care. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid and CRP training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid and CPR training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid and CPR training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of both courses from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. The Director stated that the facility has a class scheduled for August 5, 2024. - In child care centers storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. The items stored in the bathroom adjacent to space #4 were removed during the visit. - Over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup, decongestant, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, topical antibiotic cream for abrasions, or medication for intestinal disorders shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging on which the child's name is written or labeled. During the visit, the Director spoke with the staff members in space #1 and #2 regarding requirements for over-the-counter medications to be in the original packaging as well as the medications must be labeled with the child’s name. - All human milk, formula, and other bottled beverages, including beverages in sippy cups, that are sent from home shall be fully prepared and labeled with the date received at the child care center and the name of the child to whom the milk, formula, or beverage belongs before being brought to the child care center. The teacher in space #3, placed today’s date on the two sippy cup containing milk. - Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/30/2024 Number Present: 79 Completed Date: 7/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 370 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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. K. Hodge, Director, assisted me with the visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. A sanitation inspection was completed July 3, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted January 5, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. A lockdown drill was conducted on June 7, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted June 7, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 29, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Ten percent of children’s records were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been twelve new staff hired since the third temporary time period visit was conducted on January 3, 2024. Files for the new staff were monitored as well as ten percent of existing staff files. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In space #3, two sippy cups containing milk was present with no date on either cup. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 830 A First Aid information sheet was not posted in a place for referral and/or the information sheet did not include all the required information. A First Aid information sheet was not posted. .0802(h) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #1 and #2, Camilia liquid drops for teething was present for two children. The liquid drops were not in the original packaging. In space #1 and #2, diaper creams present for four children was not labeled with the child's name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. The safe sleep policy was not posted in space #1. .0606(b) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member with a hire date of June 17, 2024 had a medical report on file dated July 9, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 22, 2024 had a medical report on file dated January 21, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member's emergency information was dated July 21, 2023. .0701(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. Two staff members First Aid training was completed with an agency that is not approved. One staff member's First Aid training was completed by an approved agency however, the course was not approved. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member's CPR training was completed with an agency that is not approved. One staff member's CPR training was completed by an approved agency however, the course was not approved. .1102(d) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In child are centers, toilet tissue paper shall be provided in each toilet room and stored in a clean, dry place. The toilet room shall include or be adjacent to a handwash lavatory. Storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. In space #4, there was an art easel, dirty laundry, and child size steps being stored in the restroom. This is a violation of requirement 15A NCAC 18A .2817. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 13, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: -Medical reports for staff must be on file prior to employment. Emergency information for all staff must be on file the first day of employment and annually after. -A First Aid information sheet must be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. The Director had previously ordered information sheets from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center. The First Aid information sheet was included in the order. The information sheet was posted at the entrance of the facility during the visit. - The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. The safe sleep policy was posted in the classroom during the visit. - All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid and CPR appropriate to the ages of children in care. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid and CRP training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid and CPR training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid and CPR training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of both courses from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. The Director stated that the facility has a class scheduled for August 5, 2024. - In child care centers storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. The items stored in the bathroom adjacent to space #4 were removed during the visit. - Over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup, decongestant, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, topical antibiotic cream for abrasions, or medication for intestinal disorders shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging on which the child's name is written or labeled. During the visit, the Director spoke with the staff members in space #1 and #2 regarding requirements for over-the-counter medications to be in the original packaging as well as the medications must be labeled with the child’s name. - All human milk, formula, and other bottled beverages, including beverages in sippy cups, that are sent from home shall be fully prepared and labeled with the date received at the child care center and the name of the child to whom the milk, formula, or beverage belongs before being brought to the child care center. The teacher in space #3, placed today’s date on the two sippy cup containing milk. - Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/30/2024 Number Present: 79 Completed Date: 7/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 370 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:30 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. K. Hodge, Director, assisted me with the visit. The facility currently operates with a five-star license, issued January 23, 2024, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point by staff benefits and an infrastructure for parent involvement. The 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 in. A sanitation inspection was completed July 3, 2024, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted January 5, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. A lockdown drill was conducted on June 7, 2024, and the last fire drill was conducted June 7, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 29, 2024, and The Nest Schools, LLC was listed as current- active. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, free play of indoor and outdoor activity areas, group time, teacher directed activities and transitions. The caregivers were observed supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. Ten percent of children’s records were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. There have been twelve new staff hired since the third temporary time period visit was conducted on January 3, 2024. Files for the new staff were monitored as well as ten percent of existing staff files. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. In space #3, two sippy cups containing milk was present with no date on either cup. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 830 A First Aid information sheet was not posted in a place for referral and/or the information sheet did not include all the required information. A First Aid information sheet was not posted. .0802(h) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #1 and #2, Camilia liquid drops for teething was present for two children. The liquid drops were not in the original packaging. In space #1 and #2, diaper creams present for four children was not labeled with the child's name. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. The safe sleep policy was not posted in space #1. .0606(b) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member with a hire date of June 17, 2024 had a medical report on file dated July 9, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 22, 2024 had a medical report on file dated January 21, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff member's emergency information was dated July 21, 2023. .0701(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. Two staff members First Aid training was completed with an agency that is not approved. One staff member's First Aid training was completed by an approved agency however, the course was not approved. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member's CPR training was completed with an agency that is not approved. One staff member's CPR training was completed by an approved agency however, the course was not approved. .1102(d) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In child are centers, toilet tissue paper shall be provided in each toilet room and stored in a clean, dry place. The toilet room shall include or be adjacent to a handwash lavatory. Storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. In space #4, there was an art easel, dirty laundry, and child size steps being stored in the restroom. This is a violation of requirement 15A NCAC 18A .2817. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 13, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: -Medical reports for staff must be on file prior to employment. Emergency information for all staff must be on file the first day of employment and annually after. -A First Aid information sheet must be posted in a place for referral. The information sheet shall include first aid guidance regarding burns, scalds, fractures, sprains, head injuries, poisons, skin wounds, stings and bites. The Director had previously ordered information sheets from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center. The First Aid information sheet was included in the order. The information sheet was posted at the entrance of the facility during the visit. - The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. The safe sleep policy was posted in the classroom during the visit. - All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid and CPR appropriate to the ages of children in care. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid and CRP training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid and CPR training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid and CPR training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of both courses from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. The Director stated that the facility has a class scheduled for August 5, 2024. - In child care centers storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. The items stored in the bathroom adjacent to space #4 were removed during the visit. - Over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup, decongestant, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, topical antibiotic cream for abrasions, or medication for intestinal disorders shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging on which the child's name is written or labeled. During the visit, the Director spoke with the staff members in space #1 and #2 regarding requirements for over-the-counter medications to be in the original packaging as well as the medications must be labeled with the child’s name. - All human milk, formula, and other bottled beverages, including beverages in sippy cups, that are sent from home shall be fully prepared and labeled with the date received at the child care center and the name of the child to whom the milk, formula, or beverage belongs before being brought to the child care center. The teacher in space #3, placed today’s date on the two sippy cup containing milk. - Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2201 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2204 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .2215 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/3/2024 Number Present: 45 Completed Date: 1/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with the child care requirements listed below. This was the facility’s third temporary time period visit. The facility’s temporary license expires on January 22, 2024. The facility’s compliance history was 78% prior to today’s visit. Kaye Dunlap, Licensing Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Kathy Hodge, the new director. Ms. Hodge accompanied us as we monitored each of the classrooms. In the infant room five (5) infants and three (3) toddlers were observed sitting in a circle. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” We explained that was not developmentally appropriate and that the infants and toddlers need to move freely around the room. A bottle of ginger ale was sitting on the shelf that was being consumed by the staff member. One (1) infant was observed sleeping in a crib. No safe sleep chart had been documented for the infant . The teachers stated the infant went down at 9:10 am and woke up at 9:49 am when we were in the classroom. Preschool children were observed playing in free play outside, and in teacher directed activities. The activity centers are organized with a variety of age-appropriate materials. Staff were engaged and meeting the needs of the children. Three (3) classrooms did not have required documents posted and current. Two (2) classrooms have peeling paint on the wall and door. In space #5 diaper cream and bulk soap were sitting on the counter. All groups were within the staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Program records were monitored. Playground inspections and fire drills were completed and documented as required. The EPR plan was completed on December 28, 2023. Five (5) new staff have been hired since the Second Temporary Time Visit. Specialized training was monitored today. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. As of today’s visit, the fire inspection and building inspection have not been completed. Twenty-six (26) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Hodge during today’s visit. Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced visit will be conducted in the near future to confirm today’s violations have been corrected. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In space #5, the staff/child ratio form was not posted. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5, a daily schedule was not posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in space #2, #4, and #5. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 451 For children under three years of age, an open area that allows freedom of movement was not available, both indoors or outdoors. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .0510(e)(4) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). In space #2, there were two children that did not have a feeding plan posted. In space #4, there were six children that did not have a feeding plan posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. In space #2, one feeding plan did not include the parent signature. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. In space #2, a thermometer was not located in the refrigerator. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In space #5, cots were not labeled and individually assigned. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, there were two places on the wall where paint was peeling. In space #4, there was paint peeling from the bottom of the bathroom door and a place on the wall. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on the playgrounds had exposed nails on several of the planks and at least ten wooden planks were missing and/or broken causing potential injuries. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #5, bulk soap was observed being stored on a countertop. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space #5, diaper cream was located on shelf that was not five feet above the floor. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space #2, one infant was asleep in a crib. Documentation of visually checking the infant had not been completed. .0606(g) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Two new staff members medical reports were older than 12 months from their hire date. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Two new staff members TB test was older than 12 months from their hire date. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One new staff member did not have emergency information file. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that 16 hours of orientation was completed within the first 6 weeks. .1101(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Two new staff members did not have verification on file that six clock hours of training in required topic areas was completed. .1101(a)(b) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #2, there were nine children present however, there were only eight children marked present. GS 110-91(9) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space #2, a bottle of Ginger Ale was located on a shelf that was being consumed by a staff member. .0901(i) 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. Six staff members did not have verification on file that the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was reviewed prior to the staff providing care to children. .0608(d)(1-4) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. Three (3) of the infant/toddlers were bucketed in seats unable to get out of the seats. When I asked why they were buckled the teacher responded, “they were getting ready to do community time and if they aren’t buckled in, they leave the group.” .1803(a)(10) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. Three staff members did not have a separate medical file from a personnel file. .0701(d) 1912 The written feeding plan did not include the type of milk, formula or food and/or the frequency of the feedings. In space #2, one feeding plan did not have the type of formula listed. .0902(a) 9998 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2832 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND PREMISES(b) Sand toys, water tables, and other unfiltered items that can collect standing water in the outdoor learning environment shall be emptied and stored to prevent the collection of standing water. There were two sandboxes observed without a cover. The Director stated that covers have been purchased however, are on backorder. 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2820 STORAGE(f) Individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, bags, or other items and accessories. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart. A child's coats, hats, bags, and other items or accessories belonging to a child that are stored using cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall not come into contact with stored items belonging to other children. Combs shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the comb belongs and stored separately from combs or other items that belong to a different child. Toothbrushes shall be labeled with the name of the child to whom the toothbrush belongs, allowed to air dry after use, protected from contamination, and stored in a designated area. When a container of toothpaste is used for multiple children, the toothpaste shall be dispensed onto an intermediate surface such as waxed paper and shall not be dispensed directly onto each child's toothbrush. In space #6, children's coats were piled together on the top of a shelf. Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions: - It was discussed with the infant/toddler teachers as well as Ms. Hodge that infants and toddlers can not be confined, they need to be able to move about the area freely both indoors and outdoors. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that all paperwork from parents needs to review by administrators and all areas that were not filled out correctly need to highlight and shared with the parent to ensure corrected documentation of all forms before going into the classroom or in a file. - It was discussed with Ms. Hodge today that the facility currently has the classrooms keeping attendance three ways: tablet, transition sheets and attendance sheet. This is causing confusion and incorrected documentation of attendance in classroom. It becomes especially confusing when children are being moved from different classrooms to maintain ratio. It was suggested that Ms. Hodge do a training with the staff on the importance of documentation of attendance and transition sheets. We reminded Ms. Hodge the importance of attendance is to ensure where each child is located in an event of emergency. It was discussed during today’s visit with Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, that based on non-compliance from today’s visit, the facility not obtaining the fire inspection or building inspection, and the facility’s compliance score falling. It will need to be determined what course of action will be taken regarding the facility coming off their temporary license. 10A NCAC 09 .2204 PROVISIONAL CHILD CARE FACILITY LICENSE OR PROVISIONAL NOTICE OF COMPLIANCE A provisional child care facility license or provisional notice of compliance may be issued to an operator for any period of time not to exceed 12 months in accordance with the factors listed in 10A NCAC 09 .2201(b) for, among other things, the following reasons: (5) when the compliance history of the facility drops below the minimum requirement set forth in G.S. 110-90; 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; - Ms. Brylski emailed me the facility’s operation and personnel policies on October 19, 2023. The facilities policies have been approved. - The Written Warning was issued on November 8, 2023. On November 24, 2023, all staff attended the A+ Supervision Training. On November 30, 2023, I received a written plan of the steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision of children and procedures ensuring staff/child ratio was met through the day. . These procedures were approved on December 1, 2023. On December 19, 2023, Ms. Hodge conducted a staff meeting to discuss stipulation #3 & #4. This completes the requirements of the Action. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions in the interim, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Tennille Ledbetter and Taquana Munson, administrators, were present. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 22, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only; Capacity 199. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business The Nest Schools. is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Ms. Ledbetter accompanied me on today’s walk-through. Infants were observed sleeping, playing on the floor with their teacher and eating. Safe Sleep Charts and Feeding schedules were monitored. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was at 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. Preschool children were observed in teacher directed activities, free play and outside. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. There was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. All required documents were posted and current. Corinne Brylski, Regional Manager, arrived during today’s visit. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 12, 2023. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 12, 2023. Ms. Ledbetter has completed the EPR plan, and it was found in compliance during today’s visit. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. This was corrected during today’ visit. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. All staff files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. Eight (8) children’s files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. The menu was documented with appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Ten (10) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Munson, and Ms. Brylski during today’s visit. Two (2) violations were corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 465 Four of the five activity area(s): art/creative play, children’s books, blocks/block building, manipulatives, family living/dramatic play was not available daily. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers, there were toys scattered for house keeping and blocks. There was a shelf for books. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In space space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(d)(1) 486 For children under three years of age, materials were not kept in a space with related equipment and materials. In space #4, there were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. Toys were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(e)(2) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. .0510(e)(3) 533 Breast milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #4 there was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(g) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(b) 1850 Signage was not posted regarding the smoking and tobacco restriction at the entrance of the center and/or in vehicles used to transport children. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. .0604(i) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before November 27, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – On September 7, 2023, a termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. A fire inspection needs to be completed, and then the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. I emailed the letter to Ms. Ledbetter and Ms. Brylski. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – – I discussed with Ms. Ledbetter that the facility will transition at the end of their temporary license to the star rating level the previous owner or location had. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Ledbetter understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. Technical assistance was given in the following areas: You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The following law was discussed with the administrators today. § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. (12) Developmentally Appropriate Activities. – Each facility shall have developmentally appropriate activities and play materials. The Commission shall establish minimum standards for developmentally appropriate activities for child care facilities. Each child care facility shall have a planned schedule of developmentally appropriate activities displayed in a prominent place for parents to review and the appropriate materials and equipment available to implement the scheduled activities. Each child care center shall make four of the following activity areas available daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. The following rules were discussed with the administrators today. 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (a) For each group of children in care, the center shall provide daily four of the five activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (1) Centers with a licensed capacity of 30 or more children shall have at least four activity areas available in the space occupied by a group of children. (2) Centers with a licensed capacity of less than 30 children shall have at least four activity areas available. Separate groups of children may share use of the same activity areas. (3) Centers with a licensed capacity of 3 to 12 children located in a residence shall have at least four types of activities available. (b) In addition to the four activity areas that are available each day, each center shall have materials and equipment in sufficient quantity, as described in Subparagraph (d)(1) of this Rule, to ensure that the fifth activity area listed in G.S. 110-91(12) is made available at least once per month. (c) Each center shall provide materials and opportunities for each group of children at least weekly, indoors, or outdoors, for the following: (1) music and rhythm; (2) science and nature; and (3) sand and water play. (d) When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0510 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Tennille Ledbetter and Taquana Munson, administrators, were present. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 22, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only; Capacity 199. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business The Nest Schools. is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Ms. Ledbetter accompanied me on today’s walk-through. Infants were observed sleeping, playing on the floor with their teacher and eating. Safe Sleep Charts and Feeding schedules were monitored. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was at 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. Preschool children were observed in teacher directed activities, free play and outside. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. There was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. All required documents were posted and current. Corinne Brylski, Regional Manager, arrived during today’s visit. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 12, 2023. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 12, 2023. Ms. Ledbetter has completed the EPR plan, and it was found in compliance during today’s visit. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. This was corrected during today’ visit. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. All staff files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. Eight (8) children’s files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. The menu was documented with appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Ten (10) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Munson, and Ms. Brylski during today’s visit. Two (2) violations were corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 465 Four of the five activity area(s): art/creative play, children’s books, blocks/block building, manipulatives, family living/dramatic play was not available daily. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers, there were toys scattered for house keeping and blocks. There was a shelf for books. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In space space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(d)(1) 486 For children under three years of age, materials were not kept in a space with related equipment and materials. In space #4, there were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. Toys were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(e)(2) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. .0510(e)(3) 533 Breast milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #4 there was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(g) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(b) 1850 Signage was not posted regarding the smoking and tobacco restriction at the entrance of the center and/or in vehicles used to transport children. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. .0604(i) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before November 27, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – On September 7, 2023, a termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. A fire inspection needs to be completed, and then the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. I emailed the letter to Ms. Ledbetter and Ms. Brylski. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – – I discussed with Ms. Ledbetter that the facility will transition at the end of their temporary license to the star rating level the previous owner or location had. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Ledbetter understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. Technical assistance was given in the following areas: You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The following law was discussed with the administrators today. § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. (12) Developmentally Appropriate Activities. – Each facility shall have developmentally appropriate activities and play materials. The Commission shall establish minimum standards for developmentally appropriate activities for child care facilities. Each child care facility shall have a planned schedule of developmentally appropriate activities displayed in a prominent place for parents to review and the appropriate materials and equipment available to implement the scheduled activities. Each child care center shall make four of the following activity areas available daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. The following rules were discussed with the administrators today. 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (a) For each group of children in care, the center shall provide daily four of the five activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (1) Centers with a licensed capacity of 30 or more children shall have at least four activity areas available in the space occupied by a group of children. (2) Centers with a licensed capacity of less than 30 children shall have at least four activity areas available. Separate groups of children may share use of the same activity areas. (3) Centers with a licensed capacity of 3 to 12 children located in a residence shall have at least four types of activities available. (b) In addition to the four activity areas that are available each day, each center shall have materials and equipment in sufficient quantity, as described in Subparagraph (d)(1) of this Rule, to ensure that the fifth activity area listed in G.S. 110-91(12) is made available at least once per month. (c) Each center shall provide materials and opportunities for each group of children at least weekly, indoors, or outdoors, for the following: (1) music and rhythm; (2) science and nature; and (3) sand and water play. (d) When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Tennille Ledbetter and Taquana Munson, administrators, were present. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 22, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only; Capacity 199. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business The Nest Schools. is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Ms. Ledbetter accompanied me on today’s walk-through. Infants were observed sleeping, playing on the floor with their teacher and eating. Safe Sleep Charts and Feeding schedules were monitored. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was at 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. Preschool children were observed in teacher directed activities, free play and outside. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. There was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. All required documents were posted and current. Corinne Brylski, Regional Manager, arrived during today’s visit. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 12, 2023. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 12, 2023. Ms. Ledbetter has completed the EPR plan, and it was found in compliance during today’s visit. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. This was corrected during today’ visit. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. All staff files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. Eight (8) children’s files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. The menu was documented with appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Ten (10) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Munson, and Ms. Brylski during today’s visit. Two (2) violations were corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 465 Four of the five activity area(s): art/creative play, children’s books, blocks/block building, manipulatives, family living/dramatic play was not available daily. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers, there were toys scattered for house keeping and blocks. There was a shelf for books. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In space space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(d)(1) 486 For children under three years of age, materials were not kept in a space with related equipment and materials. In space #4, there were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. Toys were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(e)(2) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. .0510(e)(3) 533 Breast milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #4 there was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(g) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(b) 1850 Signage was not posted regarding the smoking and tobacco restriction at the entrance of the center and/or in vehicles used to transport children. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. .0604(i) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before November 27, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – On September 7, 2023, a termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. A fire inspection needs to be completed, and then the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. I emailed the letter to Ms. Ledbetter and Ms. Brylski. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – – I discussed with Ms. Ledbetter that the facility will transition at the end of their temporary license to the star rating level the previous owner or location had. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Ledbetter understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. Technical assistance was given in the following areas: You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The following law was discussed with the administrators today. § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. (12) Developmentally Appropriate Activities. – Each facility shall have developmentally appropriate activities and play materials. The Commission shall establish minimum standards for developmentally appropriate activities for child care facilities. Each child care facility shall have a planned schedule of developmentally appropriate activities displayed in a prominent place for parents to review and the appropriate materials and equipment available to implement the scheduled activities. Each child care center shall make four of the following activity areas available daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. The following rules were discussed with the administrators today. 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (a) For each group of children in care, the center shall provide daily four of the five activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (1) Centers with a licensed capacity of 30 or more children shall have at least four activity areas available in the space occupied by a group of children. (2) Centers with a licensed capacity of less than 30 children shall have at least four activity areas available. Separate groups of children may share use of the same activity areas. (3) Centers with a licensed capacity of 3 to 12 children located in a residence shall have at least four types of activities available. (b) In addition to the four activity areas that are available each day, each center shall have materials and equipment in sufficient quantity, as described in Subparagraph (d)(1) of this Rule, to ensure that the fifth activity area listed in G.S. 110-91(12) is made available at least once per month. (c) Each center shall provide materials and opportunities for each group of children at least weekly, indoors, or outdoors, for the following: (1) music and rhythm; (2) science and nature; and (3) sand and water play. (d) When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Tennille Ledbetter and Taquana Munson, administrators, were present. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 22, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only; Capacity 199. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business The Nest Schools. is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Ms. Ledbetter accompanied me on today’s walk-through. Infants were observed sleeping, playing on the floor with their teacher and eating. Safe Sleep Charts and Feeding schedules were monitored. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was at 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. Preschool children were observed in teacher directed activities, free play and outside. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. There was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. All required documents were posted and current. Corinne Brylski, Regional Manager, arrived during today’s visit. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 12, 2023. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 12, 2023. Ms. Ledbetter has completed the EPR plan, and it was found in compliance during today’s visit. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. This was corrected during today’ visit. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. All staff files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. Eight (8) children’s files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. The menu was documented with appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Ten (10) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Munson, and Ms. Brylski during today’s visit. Two (2) violations were corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 465 Four of the five activity area(s): art/creative play, children’s books, blocks/block building, manipulatives, family living/dramatic play was not available daily. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers, there were toys scattered for house keeping and blocks. There was a shelf for books. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In space space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(d)(1) 486 For children under three years of age, materials were not kept in a space with related equipment and materials. In space #4, there were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. Toys were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(e)(2) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. .0510(e)(3) 533 Breast milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #4 there was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(g) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(b) 1850 Signage was not posted regarding the smoking and tobacco restriction at the entrance of the center and/or in vehicles used to transport children. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. .0604(i) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before November 27, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – On September 7, 2023, a termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. A fire inspection needs to be completed, and then the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. I emailed the letter to Ms. Ledbetter and Ms. Brylski. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – – I discussed with Ms. Ledbetter that the facility will transition at the end of their temporary license to the star rating level the previous owner or location had. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Ledbetter understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. Technical assistance was given in the following areas: You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The following law was discussed with the administrators today. § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. (12) Developmentally Appropriate Activities. – Each facility shall have developmentally appropriate activities and play materials. The Commission shall establish minimum standards for developmentally appropriate activities for child care facilities. Each child care facility shall have a planned schedule of developmentally appropriate activities displayed in a prominent place for parents to review and the appropriate materials and equipment available to implement the scheduled activities. Each child care center shall make four of the following activity areas available daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. The following rules were discussed with the administrators today. 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (a) For each group of children in care, the center shall provide daily four of the five activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (1) Centers with a licensed capacity of 30 or more children shall have at least four activity areas available in the space occupied by a group of children. (2) Centers with a licensed capacity of less than 30 children shall have at least four activity areas available. Separate groups of children may share use of the same activity areas. (3) Centers with a licensed capacity of 3 to 12 children located in a residence shall have at least four types of activities available. (b) In addition to the four activity areas that are available each day, each center shall have materials and equipment in sufficient quantity, as described in Subparagraph (d)(1) of this Rule, to ensure that the fifth activity area listed in G.S. 110-91(12) is made available at least once per month. (c) Each center shall provide materials and opportunities for each group of children at least weekly, indoors, or outdoors, for the following: (1) music and rhythm; (2) science and nature; and (3) sand and water play. (d) When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 03:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. Tennille Ledbetter and Taquana Munson, administrators, were present. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 22, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only; Capacity 199. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business The Nest Schools. is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Ms. Ledbetter accompanied me on today’s walk-through. Infants were observed sleeping, playing on the floor with their teacher and eating. Safe Sleep Charts and Feeding schedules were monitored. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was at 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. Preschool children were observed in teacher directed activities, free play and outside. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. There was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. All required documents were posted and current. Corinne Brylski, Regional Manager, arrived during today’s visit. The center's temporary license, NC child care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, hazardous product storage. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 12, 2023. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 12, 2023. Ms. Ledbetter has completed the EPR plan, and it was found in compliance during today’s visit. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. This was corrected during today’ visit. The sanitation inspection was completed on August 8, 2023, and you received an approved rating and seventeen demerits. All staff files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. Eight (8) children’s files were monitored. One (1) violation was cited. The menu was documented with appropriate nutritious snacks and meals, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. Ten (10) violations were observed and discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Munson, and Ms. Brylski during today’s visit. Two (2) violations were corrected during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 465 Four of the five activity area(s): art/creative play, children’s books, blocks/block building, manipulatives, family living/dramatic play was not available daily. In space #4, space #9 there are no defined activity centers, there were toys scattered for house keeping and blocks. There was a shelf for books. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In space space #9 there are no defined activity centers. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #9 materials were just thrown in bins, they were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(d)(1) 486 For children under three years of age, materials were not kept in a space with related equipment and materials. In space #4, there were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. Toys were not organized, and the equipment was scattered about the room in bins. .0510(e)(2) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. There were not enough materials for the children. In space #4 twelve (12) children were present there were only 20 toys available around the room. .0510(e)(3) 533 Breast milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. There were two (2) bottles and one (1) sippy cup in the refrigerator that was not dated or labeled with the child’s name. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. In space #4 there was a Tupperware contain filled with coconut paste diaper cream that was not in the original container. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. In space #4 diaper cream authorization were not filled out completed. Dates were incomplete and dosage was left blank. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. An infant was asleep in the crib, the last documented Safe Sleep check was 8:50, it was 9:22. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(g) 892 The center's safe sleep policy was not posted in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers were able to view daily. There was no Safe Sleep Policy posted in the room. Ms. Munson posted the Policy during the visit. .0606(b) 1850 Signage was not posted regarding the smoking and tobacco restriction at the entrance of the center and/or in vehicles used to transport children. There is no No smoking/tobacco signage posted at the entrance. .0604(i) Corrective Action The childcare provider is expected to always maintain all applicable childcare requirements. The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before November 27, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – On September 7, 2023, a termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. A fire inspection needs to be completed, and then the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. I emailed the letter to Ms. Ledbetter and Ms. Brylski. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – – I discussed with Ms. Ledbetter that the facility will transition at the end of their temporary license to the star rating level the previous owner or location had. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Ledbetter understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. Technical assistance was given in the following areas: You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The following law was discussed with the administrators today. § 110-91. Mandatory standards for a license. (12) Developmentally Appropriate Activities. – Each facility shall have developmentally appropriate activities and play materials. The Commission shall establish minimum standards for developmentally appropriate activities for child care facilities. Each child care facility shall have a planned schedule of developmentally appropriate activities displayed in a prominent place for parents to review and the appropriate materials and equipment available to implement the scheduled activities. Each child care center shall make four of the following activity areas available daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. The following rules were discussed with the administrators today. 10A NCAC 09 .0510 ACTIVITY AREAS (a) For each group of children in care, the center shall provide daily four of the five activity areas listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (1) Centers with a licensed capacity of 30 or more children shall have at least four activity areas available in the space occupied by a group of children. (2) Centers with a licensed capacity of less than 30 children shall have at least four activity areas available. Separate groups of children may share use of the same activity areas. (3) Centers with a licensed capacity of 3 to 12 children located in a residence shall have at least four types of activities available. (b) In addition to the four activity areas that are available each day, each center shall have materials and equipment in sufficient quantity, as described in Subparagraph (d)(1) of this Rule, to ensure that the fifth activity area listed in G.S. 110-91(12) is made available at least once per month. (c) Each center shall provide materials and opportunities for each group of children at least weekly, indoors, or outdoors, for the following: (1) music and rhythm; (2) science and nature; and (3) sand and water play. (d) When preschool children three years old and older are in care the following shall apply: (1) the materials and equipment in an activity area shall be in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 704-936-6065 or through email at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0823-410L Visit Date: 9/7/2023 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 9/7/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 10:40 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations of childcare requirements during a complaint visit. The facility has a Temporary License issued July 22, 2023. The facility had their first Temp Time Period Visit on August 10, 2023. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Tennille Ledbetter, Director, Corrinne Brylski, Regional Director. Taquana Munson Assistant Director was also present. I shared the following allegations with Ms. Brylski and Ms. Ledbetter: There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised. There are concerns that staff/child ratios are not being followed during all hours of the day. Ms. Tennille accompanied me on today’s walkthrough. Infants and toddlers were observed playing on the floor with the teachers. Preschool children were observed in circle time and teacher directed activities. In space #2, #3 and #5 the walls have peeling paint. Groups were within staff/child ratio and adequately supervised. Hazardous products were stored locked. Attendance records were reviewed in each classroom and found in compliance. I requested incident reports. I reviewed 9 incident reports regarding biting. Seven of the nine were missing, staff or parent signatures, time and date that parent was contacted. Based on pictures that seventeen (17) toddlers, all one year of age were in a classroom with two (2) staff members adequate supervision could not be maintain. A child was bitten by another child and staff members were not aware of the biting. The allegation of supervision was found substantiated. Based on pictures that seventeen (17) toddlers, all one year of age were in a classroom with two (2) staff members The allegation that staff/child ratio/ group size are not being followed during all hours of the day is found substantiated. Ms. Ledbetter stated that the groups were only combining in the mornings until after breakfast. Four (4) violations were observed and cited during today’s visit. All violations were discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Brylski, and Ms. Munson. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Based on pictures that seventeen (17) toddlers, all one year of age were in a classroom with two (2) staff members. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Based on pictures that seventeen (17) toddlers, all one year of age were in a classroom with two (2) staff members adequate supervision could not be maintain. A child was bitten by another child and staff members were not aware of the biting. .1801(a)(1-5) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. In space #2, #3 and #5 the walls have peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. I reviewed 9 incident reports regarding biting. Seven of the nine were missing, staff or parent signatures, time and date that parent was contacted. .0802(g)(1-6) Corrective Action Plan: The childcare provider is always expected to maintain all applicable childcare requirements. An unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted in the very near future to verify corrections to today's violations. Today's violations are expected to be corrected immediately. Technical Assistance: - It was discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Brylski, and Ms. Munson that the facility is expected to maintain staff/child ratio as well as group size at all times. The expectation is that staff do not accept more children in the classroom once they are at the required staff/child ratio and/or group size. - It was discussed with Ms. Ledbetter, Ms. Brylski, and Ms. Munson based on the substantiated complaint an Administrative Action could be issued. - It was recommended that administration does a training on the how to correctly complete incident reports. I also recommend that administration review all incident reports to ensure that all information is completed and accurate. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or I can help you with anything please free to contact me at 704-936-6065, or email me at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/10/2023 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 8/10/2023 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to provide technical assistance and monitor compliance with all applicable child care center requirements. The facility’s temporary license was issued on July 22, 2023, as the result of a change of ownership. The July 2023 version of the Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the Change of Ownership Licensing Checklist was used to monitor compliance. This was the first visit during the facility’s temporary license period. Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson were present upon our arrival. Ms. Munson accompanied me as I monitored all nine (9) classrooms. In the infant room infants were observed playing on the floor and two (2) infants were observed sleeping. Safe Sleep Checks were documented as required. Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. Children were observed playing in their activity centers, eating lunch, and preparing for nap. The activity centers had age-appropriate materials accessible to the children. The staff were observed actively engaged in the children’s activities and their interactions were nurturing. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. In space #5 no schedule was posted. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. I did a sampling of staff files and children’s files from different age groups. Files were monitored and found in compliance. The playground was monitored, and gravel was found on the toddler playground. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – A termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter during today’s visit. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. Once the fire inspection has been completed, the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 1, 2023, the facility received 32 demerits and a Provisional Classification. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 8, 2023, the facility received 17 demerits and an Approved Classification. Nine (9) violations were observed and cited during today’s visit. Each violation was discussed with . Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5 no schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. .0601(c) 712 Pea gravel was used for playground surfacing in areas used by children under 3 years of age. Gravel was used on the toddler playground to bring mulch up to the surface of the fence. .0605(j)(1) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. GS 110-91(9) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule.In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will shall submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before August 24, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Clarification on the following NC General Statutes, Child Care Rules and/or Sanitation Requirements was provided today: Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. The schedule and activity plan may be combined in a single document. (b) For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development. (2) health and physical development. (3) approaches to play and learning. (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. (c) When children are in care and weather conditions permit, there shall be outdoor time, either as part of a small group, a whole group, or individual activity, for no less than the following durations: All Programs Under 2 years 30 Minutes Less than 5 hours 0-12 years 30 Minutes 5 hours or more 2-12 years 60 minutes (d) When children three years old or older are in care, the schedule shall include the following: (1) blocks of time assigned to types of activities, including periods of time for active play, quiet play, or rest. (2) times and activities that are developmentally appropriate for the children in care; and (3) daily opportunities indoors and outdoors for: (A) free-choice activities; and (B) teacher-directed activities. (e) For children under two years old, interspersed among the daily events shall be individualized caregiving routines such as eating, napping, and toileting. (f) When children under three years old are in care, the schedule shall include regular daily events such as the arrival and departure of the children, free-choice times, outside time, and teacher-directed activities. (g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group. (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play. (B) children's books. (C) blocks and block building. (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. Administrative, Operational and Personnel Policies – Please emailed the facility’s policies to me for approval. I will review them and let her know if any revisions are needed. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – I discussed with both the their options for the Star Rated License, a they stated that they will discuss if they wants to request the Environment Rating Scale Assessments (ERS) during the temporary time period, which needs to be requested by October 23, 2023 or I am reaching out to you today to follow up on information shared during a webinar and the DCDEE newsletter. The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. While the first reassessment year won’t begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Munson stated she has thirteen (13) children enrolled who receives subsidized children care. She understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. WORKS –As new teaching staff are hired; they need to register into DCDEE’s WORKS System to have their education evaluated. Official transcripts must be sealed when sending them to the Workforce Unit. They should be submitted as quickly as possible to ensure the education evaluations are complete when the rated license assessment is completed. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the infant classroom must have current ITS-SIDS training. New staff working in the infant classroom have two months to complete ITS-SIDS training. At all times, one child care provider who has current ITS-SIDS training must be present in the infant room while children are in care. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or I can help you with anything please free to contact me at 704-936-6065, or email me at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0508 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/10/2023 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 8/10/2023 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to provide technical assistance and monitor compliance with all applicable child care center requirements. The facility’s temporary license was issued on July 22, 2023, as the result of a change of ownership. The July 2023 version of the Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the Change of Ownership Licensing Checklist was used to monitor compliance. This was the first visit during the facility’s temporary license period. Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson were present upon our arrival. Ms. Munson accompanied me as I monitored all nine (9) classrooms. In the infant room infants were observed playing on the floor and two (2) infants were observed sleeping. Safe Sleep Checks were documented as required. Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. Children were observed playing in their activity centers, eating lunch, and preparing for nap. The activity centers had age-appropriate materials accessible to the children. The staff were observed actively engaged in the children’s activities and their interactions were nurturing. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. In space #5 no schedule was posted. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. I did a sampling of staff files and children’s files from different age groups. Files were monitored and found in compliance. The playground was monitored, and gravel was found on the toddler playground. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – A termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter during today’s visit. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. Once the fire inspection has been completed, the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 1, 2023, the facility received 32 demerits and a Provisional Classification. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 8, 2023, the facility received 17 demerits and an Approved Classification. Nine (9) violations were observed and cited during today’s visit. Each violation was discussed with . Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5 no schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. .0601(c) 712 Pea gravel was used for playground surfacing in areas used by children under 3 years of age. Gravel was used on the toddler playground to bring mulch up to the surface of the fence. .0605(j)(1) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. GS 110-91(9) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule.In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will shall submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before August 24, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Clarification on the following NC General Statutes, Child Care Rules and/or Sanitation Requirements was provided today: Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. The schedule and activity plan may be combined in a single document. (b) For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development. (2) health and physical development. (3) approaches to play and learning. (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. (c) When children are in care and weather conditions permit, there shall be outdoor time, either as part of a small group, a whole group, or individual activity, for no less than the following durations: All Programs Under 2 years 30 Minutes Less than 5 hours 0-12 years 30 Minutes 5 hours or more 2-12 years 60 minutes (d) When children three years old or older are in care, the schedule shall include the following: (1) blocks of time assigned to types of activities, including periods of time for active play, quiet play, or rest. (2) times and activities that are developmentally appropriate for the children in care; and (3) daily opportunities indoors and outdoors for: (A) free-choice activities; and (B) teacher-directed activities. (e) For children under two years old, interspersed among the daily events shall be individualized caregiving routines such as eating, napping, and toileting. (f) When children under three years old are in care, the schedule shall include regular daily events such as the arrival and departure of the children, free-choice times, outside time, and teacher-directed activities. (g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group. (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play. (B) children's books. (C) blocks and block building. (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. Administrative, Operational and Personnel Policies – Please emailed the facility’s policies to me for approval. I will review them and let her know if any revisions are needed. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – I discussed with both the their options for the Star Rated License, a they stated that they will discuss if they wants to request the Environment Rating Scale Assessments (ERS) during the temporary time period, which needs to be requested by October 23, 2023 or I am reaching out to you today to follow up on information shared during a webinar and the DCDEE newsletter. The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. While the first reassessment year won’t begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Munson stated she has thirteen (13) children enrolled who receives subsidized children care. She understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. WORKS –As new teaching staff are hired; they need to register into DCDEE’s WORKS System to have their education evaluated. Official transcripts must be sealed when sending them to the Workforce Unit. They should be submitted as quickly as possible to ensure the education evaluations are complete when the rated license assessment is completed. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the infant classroom must have current ITS-SIDS training. New staff working in the infant classroom have two months to complete ITS-SIDS training. At all times, one child care provider who has current ITS-SIDS training must be present in the infant room while children are in care. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or I can help you with anything please free to contact me at 704-936-6065, or email me at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/10/2023 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 8/10/2023 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to provide technical assistance and monitor compliance with all applicable child care center requirements. The facility’s temporary license was issued on July 22, 2023, as the result of a change of ownership. The July 2023 version of the Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the Change of Ownership Licensing Checklist was used to monitor compliance. This was the first visit during the facility’s temporary license period. Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson were present upon our arrival. Ms. Munson accompanied me as I monitored all nine (9) classrooms. In the infant room infants were observed playing on the floor and two (2) infants were observed sleeping. Safe Sleep Checks were documented as required. Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. Children were observed playing in their activity centers, eating lunch, and preparing for nap. The activity centers had age-appropriate materials accessible to the children. The staff were observed actively engaged in the children’s activities and their interactions were nurturing. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. In space #5 no schedule was posted. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. I did a sampling of staff files and children’s files from different age groups. Files were monitored and found in compliance. The playground was monitored, and gravel was found on the toddler playground. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – A termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter during today’s visit. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. Once the fire inspection has been completed, the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 1, 2023, the facility received 32 demerits and a Provisional Classification. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 8, 2023, the facility received 17 demerits and an Approved Classification. Nine (9) violations were observed and cited during today’s visit. Each violation was discussed with . Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5 no schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. .0601(c) 712 Pea gravel was used for playground surfacing in areas used by children under 3 years of age. Gravel was used on the toddler playground to bring mulch up to the surface of the fence. .0605(j)(1) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. GS 110-91(9) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule.In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will shall submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before August 24, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Clarification on the following NC General Statutes, Child Care Rules and/or Sanitation Requirements was provided today: Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. The schedule and activity plan may be combined in a single document. (b) For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development. (2) health and physical development. (3) approaches to play and learning. (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. (c) When children are in care and weather conditions permit, there shall be outdoor time, either as part of a small group, a whole group, or individual activity, for no less than the following durations: All Programs Under 2 years 30 Minutes Less than 5 hours 0-12 years 30 Minutes 5 hours or more 2-12 years 60 minutes (d) When children three years old or older are in care, the schedule shall include the following: (1) blocks of time assigned to types of activities, including periods of time for active play, quiet play, or rest. (2) times and activities that are developmentally appropriate for the children in care; and (3) daily opportunities indoors and outdoors for: (A) free-choice activities; and (B) teacher-directed activities. (e) For children under two years old, interspersed among the daily events shall be individualized caregiving routines such as eating, napping, and toileting. (f) When children under three years old are in care, the schedule shall include regular daily events such as the arrival and departure of the children, free-choice times, outside time, and teacher-directed activities. (g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group. (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play. (B) children's books. (C) blocks and block building. (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. Administrative, Operational and Personnel Policies – Please emailed the facility’s policies to me for approval. I will review them and let her know if any revisions are needed. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – I discussed with both the their options for the Star Rated License, a they stated that they will discuss if they wants to request the Environment Rating Scale Assessments (ERS) during the temporary time period, which needs to be requested by October 23, 2023 or I am reaching out to you today to follow up on information shared during a webinar and the DCDEE newsletter. The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. While the first reassessment year won’t begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Munson stated she has thirteen (13) children enrolled who receives subsidized children care. She understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. WORKS –As new teaching staff are hired; they need to register into DCDEE’s WORKS System to have their education evaluated. Official transcripts must be sealed when sending them to the Workforce Unit. They should be submitted as quickly as possible to ensure the education evaluations are complete when the rated license assessment is completed. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the infant classroom must have current ITS-SIDS training. New staff working in the infant classroom have two months to complete ITS-SIDS training. At all times, one child care provider who has current ITS-SIDS training must be present in the infant room while children are in care. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or I can help you with anything please free to contact me at 704-936-6065, or email me at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: The Nest Schools Facility ID: 60004279 Consultant: AMY ITALIANO Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/10/2023 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 8/10/2023 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to provide technical assistance and monitor compliance with all applicable child care center requirements. The facility’s temporary license was issued on July 22, 2023, as the result of a change of ownership. The July 2023 version of the Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the Change of Ownership Licensing Checklist was used to monitor compliance. This was the first visit during the facility’s temporary license period. Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson were present upon our arrival. Ms. Munson accompanied me as I monitored all nine (9) classrooms. In the infant room infants were observed playing on the floor and two (2) infants were observed sleeping. Safe Sleep Checks were documented as required. Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. Children were observed playing in their activity centers, eating lunch, and preparing for nap. The activity centers had age-appropriate materials accessible to the children. The staff were observed actively engaged in the children’s activities and their interactions were nurturing. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. In space #5 no schedule was posted. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. All groups were within staff/child ratio, group size and space capacity requirements. I did a sampling of staff files and children’s files from different age groups. Files were monitored and found in compliance. The playground was monitored, and gravel was found on the toddler playground. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. Building Inspection / Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement – A termination letter was given to Ms. Ledbetter during today’s visit. It indicated the previous owner’s license was inactive. Once the fire inspection has been completed, the owner can submit the termination letter to Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement and pay for a building permit to begin the process of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Compliance. This document must be received prior to the temporary license expiring. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 1, 2023, the facility received 32 demerits and a Provisional Classification. - A sanitation inspection was conducted on August 8, 2023, the facility received 17 demerits and an Approved Classification. Nine (9) violations were observed and cited during today’s visit. Each violation was discussed with . Director, Tennille Ledbetter, and Assistant Director, Taquana Munson Violation Number Comment Rule 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space #5 no schedule was posted. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Feeding schedules were in a folder and not posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Walls in space #3, 4, 5, 8, and 11 were observed with peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fence that surrounds the playground has peeling and chipping paint. The tent on the preschool playground is rusted. .0601(c) 712 Pea gravel was used for playground surfacing in areas used by children under 3 years of age. Gravel was used on the toddler playground to bring mulch up to the surface of the fence. .0605(j)(1) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. On the preschool playground their there are high weeds and grass. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #10 thirteen (13) children were marked present on the attendance form. Fourteen (14) children were present. GS 110-91(9) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Mulch measured 4 inches under the swings and play structure of playground the toddlers and two use. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule.In space #4 there is an Epi pen with no current medical authorization. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action The child care providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today must be corrected immediately. Ms. Ledbetter will shall submit a compliance letter explaining how and when today’s violations were corrected to Amy Italiano, Lead Child Care Consultant on or before August 24, 2023. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Clarification on the following NC General Statutes, Child Care Rules and/or Sanitation Requirements was provided today: Quality Enhancement and/or Technical Assistance Discussions 10A NCAC 09 .0508 ACTIVITY SCHEDULES AND PLANS (a) All centers shall have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. The schedule and activity plan may be combined in a single document. (b) For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development, available on the Division's website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_foundations.asp: (1) emotional and social development. (2) health and physical development. (3) approaches to play and learning. (4) language development and communication; and (5) cognitive development. (c) When children are in care and weather conditions permit, there shall be outdoor time, either as part of a small group, a whole group, or individual activity, for no less than the following durations: All Programs Under 2 years 30 Minutes Less than 5 hours 0-12 years 30 Minutes 5 hours or more 2-12 years 60 minutes (d) When children three years old or older are in care, the schedule shall include the following: (1) blocks of time assigned to types of activities, including periods of time for active play, quiet play, or rest. (2) times and activities that are developmentally appropriate for the children in care; and (3) daily opportunities indoors and outdoors for: (A) free-choice activities; and (B) teacher-directed activities. (e) For children under two years old, interspersed among the daily events shall be individualized caregiving routines such as eating, napping, and toileting. (f) When children under three years old are in care, the schedule shall include regular daily events such as the arrival and departure of the children, free-choice times, outside time, and teacher-directed activities. (g) The activity plan shall: (1) identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group. (2) reflect that the children have four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors, if weather conditions permit, as listed in G.S. 110-91(12) as follows: (A) art and other creative play. (B) children's books. (C) blocks and block building. (D) manipulatives; and (E) family living and dramatic play; and (3) include a daily gross motor activity that may occur indoors or outdoors. Administrative, Operational and Personnel Policies – Please emailed the facility’s policies to me for approval. I will review them and let her know if any revisions are needed. Star Rated License / Environment Rating Scales (ERS) Assessments – I discussed with both the their options for the Star Rated License, a they stated that they will discuss if they wants to request the Environment Rating Scale Assessments (ERS) during the temporary time period, which needs to be requested by October 23, 2023 or I am reaching out to you today to follow up on information shared during a webinar and the DCDEE newsletter. The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each include a preparation year and a reassessment year. While the first reassessment year won’t begin until July 1, 2024, the preparation year for cohort one begins July 1, 2023. The previous license was in cohort 2 and will have from now-June 30, 2025, to prepare for the assessment, the assessment would need to be requested June 30-2025-June 30, 2026. Ms. Munson stated she has thirteen (13) children enrolled who receives subsidized children care. She understands the facility must hold a 3-5 Star Rated License at the end of the temporary time period to continue providing child care for sponsored children. WORKS –As new teaching staff are hired; they need to register into DCDEE’s WORKS System to have their education evaluated. Official transcripts must be sealed when sending them to the Workforce Unit. They should be submitted as quickly as possible to ensure the education evaluations are complete when the rated license assessment is completed. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher Compliance History to be eligible to apply for a child care license. Your Compliance History will continue to build over an 18-month period. The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your center. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your six-month temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a rated license. You must maintain at least a 75% or higher compliance history to maintain your star license. If your center's compliance history drops below 75% you may receive an administrative action. The Administrator and all staff working in the infant classroom must have current ITS-SIDS training. New staff working in the infant classroom have two months to complete ITS-SIDS training. At all times, one child care provider who has current ITS-SIDS training must be present in the infant room while children are in care. The Administrator and all staff working in the school-age classroom must complete BSAC training. Health and Safety Training must be completed by all staff within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed all health and safety training within one year of employment at your facility. Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. CPR and First Aid training must be completed by all staff within 90 days of employment. Ensure that CPR and First Aid training is taken in-person, by an approved trainer and training agency, as well as the type of training is Pediatric or Infant/Child CPR and First Aid training. New staff must have a current criminal background check, medical exam, and TB test or TB screening completed prior to employment. Federal law requires that an employer keep all medical information confidential and in separate medical files. Any staff medical statements, any proof of tuberculosis test or screening, and any completed health questionnaires must be included in a staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from that staff member's individual personnel file. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or I can help you with anything please free to contact me at 704-936-6065, or email me at amy.italiano@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
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