10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 12/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. Your program currently operates with a Four Star Center License issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the license include a first shift capacity of 50 children ages 0 to 12, a second shift capacity of 33 children ages 0 to 12, and meets enhanced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was completed on January 13, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 with a “Superior” classification. The most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on December 15, 2025 and Farmers Union Developmental Day Care, Inc was listed as current-active. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. Prior to the visit the program’s eighteen month compliance history was eighty-two percent (82%). G. Bryant, administrator, was present for the visit. There were fifteen (15) children enrolled and nine (9) children present. There are seven (7) indoor spaces and three (3) outdoor spaces approved for use. Three (3) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) space is a multi-purpose room that is used for indoor gross motor activities. Age-appropriate materials were accessible to all children and spaces were arranged into activity areas. The children had a breakfast of cereal, oranges, and milk. In space 2 the children were interlocking blocks to make towers, then transitioned to the outdoor area. In space 4 the children created Christmas tree art and then transitioned to the outdoor area. Supervision and staff-child ratios were observed and found to be in compliance. There are four (4) staff members employed at this facility. New staff have not been hired since the last visit. A percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. A percentage of children’s files were reviewed. 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; this program uses the Early Learning Matters curriculum. The following violation(s) were documented 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 most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 4, a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the front playground used by children in space 2, there is rust on the bars of the metal train. On middle playground used by children in space 4, there is rust on the metal pivot point of the seesaw and splintered wood at the base of the stairs on the wooden climbing structure. .0601(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A qualification letter for teacher S.E. expired on December 15, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualification letter for teacher S.E. was not on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 30, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. 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: Qualifying Letter – Violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff member S. Elliot has a qualification letter that expired December 15, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 31, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, on December 31st the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Fire inspections must be obtained annually to ensure an ongoing safe environment. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month before the deadline. A safe indoor and outdoor environment must be provided so that children can play free of hazards. This includes upkeep of outdoor play equipment. We discussed the rust on playground equipment and the splintered wood. You can paint, sand or replace the rusted areas and cover, sand, or replace the splintered wood to prevent these areas from continuing to be a hazard. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 states (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. The teacher in space 4 has recently transitioned to a new group of children; we discussed providing her with resources related to the chosen curriculum so that she can create and post a current activity plan. Reminder: K. Jacobs must complete two (2) additional hours of on-going training by January 13, 2026. Today, you, Ms. Bryant stated that you are planning to retire and a replacement is due to be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that appropriate paperwork can be completed. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is undecided, due to the potential hiring of a new administrator. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to the stars! Education Standards: WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. Only official unopened transcripts will be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit, all other documents will be uploaded by the applicant. All staff need to ensure that current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. Your license will not be delayed due to education information not being processed. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Training opportunities: Every Relationship Matters Created by the ITTI Care Project, Every Relationship Matters! Strengthening Relationships between Adults in Child Care Settings for Directors, Teachers and FCCH Professionals is a free 1.5-hour training that highlights how important all the relationships that surround young children are. Address the Stress ITTI Care Project’s Address the Stress training is now available. This free 1-hour Wellness Workshop teaches ways to reduce stress and take care of YOU! Both are now available online via DCDEE Moodle! The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website shows that testing for lead in water was completed in May 2025 but that enrollment was started for testing for lead-based paint and asbestos. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements (NC 10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007, NC 154A NCAC 18A.2816). Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ is designed to ensure facilities meet all requirements, receive direct support throughout the participation process, and have access to communication resources. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov. If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@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 .0508 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 12/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. Your program currently operates with a Four Star Center License issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the license include a first shift capacity of 50 children ages 0 to 12, a second shift capacity of 33 children ages 0 to 12, and meets enhanced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was completed on January 13, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 with a “Superior” classification. The most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on December 15, 2025 and Farmers Union Developmental Day Care, Inc was listed as current-active. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. Prior to the visit the program’s eighteen month compliance history was eighty-two percent (82%). G. Bryant, administrator, was present for the visit. There were fifteen (15) children enrolled and nine (9) children present. There are seven (7) indoor spaces and three (3) outdoor spaces approved for use. Three (3) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) space is a multi-purpose room that is used for indoor gross motor activities. Age-appropriate materials were accessible to all children and spaces were arranged into activity areas. The children had a breakfast of cereal, oranges, and milk. In space 2 the children were interlocking blocks to make towers, then transitioned to the outdoor area. In space 4 the children created Christmas tree art and then transitioned to the outdoor area. Supervision and staff-child ratios were observed and found to be in compliance. There are four (4) staff members employed at this facility. New staff have not been hired since the last visit. A percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. A percentage of children’s files were reviewed. 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; this program uses the Early Learning Matters curriculum. The following violation(s) were documented 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 most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 4, a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the front playground used by children in space 2, there is rust on the bars of the metal train. On middle playground used by children in space 4, there is rust on the metal pivot point of the seesaw and splintered wood at the base of the stairs on the wooden climbing structure. .0601(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A qualification letter for teacher S.E. expired on December 15, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualification letter for teacher S.E. was not on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 30, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. 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: Qualifying Letter – Violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff member S. Elliot has a qualification letter that expired December 15, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 31, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, on December 31st the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Fire inspections must be obtained annually to ensure an ongoing safe environment. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month before the deadline. A safe indoor and outdoor environment must be provided so that children can play free of hazards. This includes upkeep of outdoor play equipment. We discussed the rust on playground equipment and the splintered wood. You can paint, sand or replace the rusted areas and cover, sand, or replace the splintered wood to prevent these areas from continuing to be a hazard. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 states (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. The teacher in space 4 has recently transitioned to a new group of children; we discussed providing her with resources related to the chosen curriculum so that she can create and post a current activity plan. Reminder: K. Jacobs must complete two (2) additional hours of on-going training by January 13, 2026. Today, you, Ms. Bryant stated that you are planning to retire and a replacement is due to be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that appropriate paperwork can be completed. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is undecided, due to the potential hiring of a new administrator. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to the stars! Education Standards: WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. Only official unopened transcripts will be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit, all other documents will be uploaded by the applicant. All staff need to ensure that current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. Your license will not be delayed due to education information not being processed. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Training opportunities: Every Relationship Matters Created by the ITTI Care Project, Every Relationship Matters! Strengthening Relationships between Adults in Child Care Settings for Directors, Teachers and FCCH Professionals is a free 1.5-hour training that highlights how important all the relationships that surround young children are. Address the Stress ITTI Care Project’s Address the Stress training is now available. This free 1-hour Wellness Workshop teaches ways to reduce stress and take care of YOU! Both are now available online via DCDEE Moodle! The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website shows that testing for lead in water was completed in May 2025 but that enrollment was started for testing for lead-based paint and asbestos. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements (NC 10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007, NC 154A NCAC 18A.2816). Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ is designed to ensure facilities meet all requirements, receive direct support throughout the participation process, and have access to communication resources. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov. If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 12/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. Your program currently operates with a Four Star Center License issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the license include a first shift capacity of 50 children ages 0 to 12, a second shift capacity of 33 children ages 0 to 12, and meets enhanced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was completed on January 13, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 with a “Superior” classification. The most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on December 15, 2025 and Farmers Union Developmental Day Care, Inc was listed as current-active. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. Prior to the visit the program’s eighteen month compliance history was eighty-two percent (82%). G. Bryant, administrator, was present for the visit. There were fifteen (15) children enrolled and nine (9) children present. There are seven (7) indoor spaces and three (3) outdoor spaces approved for use. Three (3) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) space is a multi-purpose room that is used for indoor gross motor activities. Age-appropriate materials were accessible to all children and spaces were arranged into activity areas. The children had a breakfast of cereal, oranges, and milk. In space 2 the children were interlocking blocks to make towers, then transitioned to the outdoor area. In space 4 the children created Christmas tree art and then transitioned to the outdoor area. Supervision and staff-child ratios were observed and found to be in compliance. There are four (4) staff members employed at this facility. New staff have not been hired since the last visit. A percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. A percentage of children’s files were reviewed. 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; this program uses the Early Learning Matters curriculum. The following violation(s) were documented 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 most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 4, a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the front playground used by children in space 2, there is rust on the bars of the metal train. On middle playground used by children in space 4, there is rust on the metal pivot point of the seesaw and splintered wood at the base of the stairs on the wooden climbing structure. .0601(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A qualification letter for teacher S.E. expired on December 15, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualification letter for teacher S.E. was not on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 30, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. 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: Qualifying Letter – Violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff member S. Elliot has a qualification letter that expired December 15, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 31, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, on December 31st the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Fire inspections must be obtained annually to ensure an ongoing safe environment. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month before the deadline. A safe indoor and outdoor environment must be provided so that children can play free of hazards. This includes upkeep of outdoor play equipment. We discussed the rust on playground equipment and the splintered wood. You can paint, sand or replace the rusted areas and cover, sand, or replace the splintered wood to prevent these areas from continuing to be a hazard. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 states (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. The teacher in space 4 has recently transitioned to a new group of children; we discussed providing her with resources related to the chosen curriculum so that she can create and post a current activity plan. Reminder: K. Jacobs must complete two (2) additional hours of on-going training by January 13, 2026. Today, you, Ms. Bryant stated that you are planning to retire and a replacement is due to be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that appropriate paperwork can be completed. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is undecided, due to the potential hiring of a new administrator. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to the stars! Education Standards: WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. Only official unopened transcripts will be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit, all other documents will be uploaded by the applicant. All staff need to ensure that current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. Your license will not be delayed due to education information not being processed. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Training opportunities: Every Relationship Matters Created by the ITTI Care Project, Every Relationship Matters! Strengthening Relationships between Adults in Child Care Settings for Directors, Teachers and FCCH Professionals is a free 1.5-hour training that highlights how important all the relationships that surround young children are. Address the Stress ITTI Care Project’s Address the Stress training is now available. This free 1-hour Wellness Workshop teaches ways to reduce stress and take care of YOU! Both are now available online via DCDEE Moodle! The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website shows that testing for lead in water was completed in May 2025 but that enrollment was started for testing for lead-based paint and asbestos. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements (NC 10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007, NC 154A NCAC 18A.2816). Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ is designed to ensure facilities meet all requirements, receive direct support throughout the participation process, and have access to communication resources. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov. If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@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 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 12/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. Your program currently operates with a Four Star Center License issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the license include a first shift capacity of 50 children ages 0 to 12, a second shift capacity of 33 children ages 0 to 12, and meets enhanced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was completed on January 13, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 with a “Superior” classification. The most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on December 15, 2025 and Farmers Union Developmental Day Care, Inc was listed as current-active. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. Prior to the visit the program’s eighteen month compliance history was eighty-two percent (82%). G. Bryant, administrator, was present for the visit. There were fifteen (15) children enrolled and nine (9) children present. There are seven (7) indoor spaces and three (3) outdoor spaces approved for use. Three (3) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) space is a multi-purpose room that is used for indoor gross motor activities. Age-appropriate materials were accessible to all children and spaces were arranged into activity areas. The children had a breakfast of cereal, oranges, and milk. In space 2 the children were interlocking blocks to make towers, then transitioned to the outdoor area. In space 4 the children created Christmas tree art and then transitioned to the outdoor area. Supervision and staff-child ratios were observed and found to be in compliance. There are four (4) staff members employed at this facility. New staff have not been hired since the last visit. A percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. A percentage of children’s files were reviewed. 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; this program uses the Early Learning Matters curriculum. The following violation(s) were documented 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 most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 4, a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the front playground used by children in space 2, there is rust on the bars of the metal train. On middle playground used by children in space 4, there is rust on the metal pivot point of the seesaw and splintered wood at the base of the stairs on the wooden climbing structure. .0601(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A qualification letter for teacher S.E. expired on December 15, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualification letter for teacher S.E. was not on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 30, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. 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: Qualifying Letter – Violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff member S. Elliot has a qualification letter that expired December 15, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 31, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, on December 31st the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Fire inspections must be obtained annually to ensure an ongoing safe environment. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month before the deadline. A safe indoor and outdoor environment must be provided so that children can play free of hazards. This includes upkeep of outdoor play equipment. We discussed the rust on playground equipment and the splintered wood. You can paint, sand or replace the rusted areas and cover, sand, or replace the splintered wood to prevent these areas from continuing to be a hazard. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 states (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. The teacher in space 4 has recently transitioned to a new group of children; we discussed providing her with resources related to the chosen curriculum so that she can create and post a current activity plan. Reminder: K. Jacobs must complete two (2) additional hours of on-going training by January 13, 2026. Today, you, Ms. Bryant stated that you are planning to retire and a replacement is due to be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that appropriate paperwork can be completed. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is undecided, due to the potential hiring of a new administrator. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to the stars! Education Standards: WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. Only official unopened transcripts will be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit, all other documents will be uploaded by the applicant. All staff need to ensure that current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. Your license will not be delayed due to education information not being processed. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Training opportunities: Every Relationship Matters Created by the ITTI Care Project, Every Relationship Matters! Strengthening Relationships between Adults in Child Care Settings for Directors, Teachers and FCCH Professionals is a free 1.5-hour training that highlights how important all the relationships that surround young children are. Address the Stress ITTI Care Project’s Address the Stress training is now available. This free 1-hour Wellness Workshop teaches ways to reduce stress and take care of YOU! Both are now available online via DCDEE Moodle! The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website shows that testing for lead in water was completed in May 2025 but that enrollment was started for testing for lead-based paint and asbestos. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements (NC 10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007, NC 154A NCAC 18A.2816). Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ is designed to ensure facilities meet all requirements, receive direct support throughout the participation process, and have access to communication resources. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov. If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 12/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. Your program currently operates with a Four Star Center License issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the license include a first shift capacity of 50 children ages 0 to 12, a second shift capacity of 33 children ages 0 to 12, and meets enhanced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was completed on January 13, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 with a “Superior” classification. The most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on December 15, 2025 and Farmers Union Developmental Day Care, Inc was listed as current-active. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. Prior to the visit the program’s eighteen month compliance history was eighty-two percent (82%). G. Bryant, administrator, was present for the visit. There were fifteen (15) children enrolled and nine (9) children present. There are seven (7) indoor spaces and three (3) outdoor spaces approved for use. Three (3) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) space is a multi-purpose room that is used for indoor gross motor activities. Age-appropriate materials were accessible to all children and spaces were arranged into activity areas. The children had a breakfast of cereal, oranges, and milk. In space 2 the children were interlocking blocks to make towers, then transitioned to the outdoor area. In space 4 the children created Christmas tree art and then transitioned to the outdoor area. Supervision and staff-child ratios were observed and found to be in compliance. There are four (4) staff members employed at this facility. New staff have not been hired since the last visit. A percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. A percentage of children’s files were reviewed. 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; this program uses the Early Learning Matters curriculum. The following violation(s) were documented 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 most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 4, a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the front playground used by children in space 2, there is rust on the bars of the metal train. On middle playground used by children in space 4, there is rust on the metal pivot point of the seesaw and splintered wood at the base of the stairs on the wooden climbing structure. .0601(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A qualification letter for teacher S.E. expired on December 15, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualification letter for teacher S.E. was not on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 30, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. 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: Qualifying Letter – Violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff member S. Elliot has a qualification letter that expired December 15, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 31, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, on December 31st the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Fire inspections must be obtained annually to ensure an ongoing safe environment. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month before the deadline. A safe indoor and outdoor environment must be provided so that children can play free of hazards. This includes upkeep of outdoor play equipment. We discussed the rust on playground equipment and the splintered wood. You can paint, sand or replace the rusted areas and cover, sand, or replace the splintered wood to prevent these areas from continuing to be a hazard. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 states (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. The teacher in space 4 has recently transitioned to a new group of children; we discussed providing her with resources related to the chosen curriculum so that she can create and post a current activity plan. Reminder: K. Jacobs must complete two (2) additional hours of on-going training by January 13, 2026. Today, you, Ms. Bryant stated that you are planning to retire and a replacement is due to be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that appropriate paperwork can be completed. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is undecided, due to the potential hiring of a new administrator. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to the stars! Education Standards: WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. Only official unopened transcripts will be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit, all other documents will be uploaded by the applicant. All staff need to ensure that current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. Your license will not be delayed due to education information not being processed. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Training opportunities: Every Relationship Matters Created by the ITTI Care Project, Every Relationship Matters! Strengthening Relationships between Adults in Child Care Settings for Directors, Teachers and FCCH Professionals is a free 1.5-hour training that highlights how important all the relationships that surround young children are. Address the Stress ITTI Care Project’s Address the Stress training is now available. This free 1-hour Wellness Workshop teaches ways to reduce stress and take care of YOU! Both are now available online via DCDEE Moodle! The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website shows that testing for lead in water was completed in May 2025 but that enrollment was started for testing for lead-based paint and asbestos. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements (NC 10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007, NC 154A NCAC 18A.2816). Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ is designed to ensure facilities meet all requirements, receive direct support throughout the participation process, and have access to communication resources. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov. If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 12/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. Your program currently operates with a Four Star Center License issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the license include a first shift capacity of 50 children ages 0 to 12, a second shift capacity of 33 children ages 0 to 12, and meets enhanced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was completed on January 13, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 with a “Superior” classification. The most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on December 15, 2025 and Farmers Union Developmental Day Care, Inc was listed as current-active. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. Prior to the visit the program’s eighteen month compliance history was eighty-two percent (82%). G. Bryant, administrator, was present for the visit. There were fifteen (15) children enrolled and nine (9) children present. There are seven (7) indoor spaces and three (3) outdoor spaces approved for use. Three (3) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) space is a multi-purpose room that is used for indoor gross motor activities. Age-appropriate materials were accessible to all children and spaces were arranged into activity areas. The children had a breakfast of cereal, oranges, and milk. In space 2 the children were interlocking blocks to make towers, then transitioned to the outdoor area. In space 4 the children created Christmas tree art and then transitioned to the outdoor area. Supervision and staff-child ratios were observed and found to be in compliance. There are four (4) staff members employed at this facility. New staff have not been hired since the last visit. A percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. A percentage of children’s files were reviewed. 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; this program uses the Early Learning Matters curriculum. The following violation(s) were documented 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 most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 4, a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the front playground used by children in space 2, there is rust on the bars of the metal train. On middle playground used by children in space 4, there is rust on the metal pivot point of the seesaw and splintered wood at the base of the stairs on the wooden climbing structure. .0601(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A qualification letter for teacher S.E. expired on December 15, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualification letter for teacher S.E. was not on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 30, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. 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: Qualifying Letter – Violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff member S. Elliot has a qualification letter that expired December 15, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 31, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, on December 31st the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Fire inspections must be obtained annually to ensure an ongoing safe environment. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month before the deadline. A safe indoor and outdoor environment must be provided so that children can play free of hazards. This includes upkeep of outdoor play equipment. We discussed the rust on playground equipment and the splintered wood. You can paint, sand or replace the rusted areas and cover, sand, or replace the splintered wood to prevent these areas from continuing to be a hazard. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 states (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. The teacher in space 4 has recently transitioned to a new group of children; we discussed providing her with resources related to the chosen curriculum so that she can create and post a current activity plan. Reminder: K. Jacobs must complete two (2) additional hours of on-going training by January 13, 2026. Today, you, Ms. Bryant stated that you are planning to retire and a replacement is due to be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that appropriate paperwork can be completed. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is undecided, due to the potential hiring of a new administrator. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to the stars! Education Standards: WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. Only official unopened transcripts will be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit, all other documents will be uploaded by the applicant. All staff need to ensure that current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. Your license will not be delayed due to education information not being processed. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Training opportunities: Every Relationship Matters Created by the ITTI Care Project, Every Relationship Matters! Strengthening Relationships between Adults in Child Care Settings for Directors, Teachers and FCCH Professionals is a free 1.5-hour training that highlights how important all the relationships that surround young children are. Address the Stress ITTI Care Project’s Address the Stress training is now available. This free 1-hour Wellness Workshop teaches ways to reduce stress and take care of YOU! Both are now available online via DCDEE Moodle! The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website shows that testing for lead in water was completed in May 2025 but that enrollment was started for testing for lead-based paint and asbestos. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements (NC 10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007, NC 154A NCAC 18A.2816). Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ is designed to ensure facilities meet all requirements, receive direct support throughout the participation process, and have access to communication resources. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov. If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/16/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 12/16/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. Your program currently operates with a Four Star Center License issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the license include a first shift capacity of 50 children ages 0 to 12, a second shift capacity of 33 children ages 0 to 12, and meets enhanced ratios. The last annual compliance visit was completed on January 13, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed on February 4, 2025 with a “Superior” classification. The most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. The Secretary of State website was reviewed on December 15, 2025 and Farmers Union Developmental Day Care, Inc was listed as current-active. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. Prior to the visit the program’s eighteen month compliance history was eighty-two percent (82%). G. Bryant, administrator, was present for the visit. There were fifteen (15) children enrolled and nine (9) children present. There are seven (7) indoor spaces and three (3) outdoor spaces approved for use. Three (3) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) space is a multi-purpose room that is used for indoor gross motor activities. Age-appropriate materials were accessible to all children and spaces were arranged into activity areas. The children had a breakfast of cereal, oranges, and milk. In space 2 the children were interlocking blocks to make towers, then transitioned to the outdoor area. In space 4 the children created Christmas tree art and then transitioned to the outdoor area. Supervision and staff-child ratios were observed and found to be in compliance. There are four (4) staff members employed at this facility. New staff have not been hired since the last visit. A percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. A percentage of children’s files were reviewed. 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; this program uses the Early Learning Matters curriculum. The following violation(s) were documented 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 most recent fire inspection was completed in July 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In space 4, a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. On the front playground used by children in space 2, there is rust on the bars of the metal train. On middle playground used by children in space 4, there is rust on the metal pivot point of the seesaw and splintered wood at the base of the stairs on the wooden climbing structure. .0601(c) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A qualification letter for teacher S.E. expired on December 15, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A qualification letter for teacher S.E. was not on file. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 30, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Please note, if the compliance letter is not received by the agreed-upon date, a follow-up visit may be made to verify compliance. Mail or email the information to: Natalie Pond, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 4 Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE. Your letter should either be typed within the body of the email so your facility email address is visible when your letter is printed (this serves as your signature), or your letter with signature may be scanned and attached to the email. 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: Qualifying Letter – Violations were documented related to criminal background checks which are violation of the child care law, North Carolina General Statute 110-90.2(b) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(e). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Staff member S. Elliot has a qualification letter that expired December 15, 2025. Information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration date. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 31, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, on December 31st the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. You stated that you understand the requirement for the date the qualification letter is due. Fire inspections must be obtained annually to ensure an ongoing safe environment. I suggest noting the date of your most recent inspection on a calendar and setting a reminder for yourself to call and request your inspection at least one month before the deadline. A safe indoor and outdoor environment must be provided so that children can play free of hazards. This includes upkeep of outdoor play equipment. We discussed the rust on playground equipment and the splintered wood. You can paint, sand or replace the rusted areas and cover, sand, or replace the splintered wood to prevent these areas from continuing to be a hazard. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0508 states (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. The teacher in space 4 has recently transitioned to a new group of children; we discussed providing her with resources related to the chosen curriculum so that she can create and post a current activity plan. Reminder: K. Jacobs must complete two (2) additional hours of on-going training by January 13, 2026. Today, you, Ms. Bryant stated that you are planning to retire and a replacement is due to be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that appropriate paperwork can be completed. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition has begun with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRISModernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is undecided, due to the potential hiring of a new administrator. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to the stars! Education Standards: WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. Only official unopened transcripts will be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit, all other documents will be uploaded by the applicant. All staff need to ensure that current education information has been submitted to WORKS and they have requested the appropriate evaluation for their position. Your license will not be delayed due to education information not being processed. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. Training opportunities: Every Relationship Matters Created by the ITTI Care Project, Every Relationship Matters! Strengthening Relationships between Adults in Child Care Settings for Directors, Teachers and FCCH Professionals is a free 1.5-hour training that highlights how important all the relationships that surround young children are. Address the Stress ITTI Care Project’s Address the Stress training is now available. This free 1-hour Wellness Workshop teaches ways to reduce stress and take care of YOU! Both are now available online via DCDEE Moodle! The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website shows that testing for lead in water was completed in May 2025 but that enrollment was started for testing for lead-based paint and asbestos. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements (NC 10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007, NC 154A NCAC 18A.2816). Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids™ is designed to ensure facilities meet all requirements, receive direct support throughout the participation process, and have access to communication resources. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@dhhs.nc.gov. If you need further assistance, please contact my supervisor at 910-824-0470 or kim.sherry@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: NATALIE M. POND Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1125-088L Visit Date: 11/17/2025 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 11/17/2025 Age: From 2 To 4 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:00 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. The allegations are as follows: there are concerns that children’s nutritional needs are not being met. This facility currently operates with a Four Star center license issued March 11, 2020. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office November 14, 2025. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 82%. Limited monitoring occurred during today’s visit. In addition to the allegations, supervision, staff /child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. Files for new staff were reviewed and contained all required information. G. Bryant, administrator, was present and available for consultation today. G. Bryant, administrator, and V. Ward, cook, accompanied me on observations of all approved indoor and outdoor spaces and the kitchen. Two classrooms and a multipurpose room were currently in use. In space 1, the children were observed in free play, preparing for story time, and in individualized toileting routines. In space 2, the children were observed in free play throughout the room and participating in group time that included counting, colors, and music activities. Spaces 3, 4 and 5 were currently not in use and space 6 is for school age children. Due to the timing of the visit, school aged children were not present. Lunch consisted of cheese and pepperoni pizza, pickles, applesauce, and milk. Investigation: The allegations were reviewed with the administrator and select staff members. Each staff member was given the opportunity to state their perceptions of the allegation. Allegation #1- There are concerns that children are not offered and provided water freely throughout the day. Findings- The cook stated that pitchers of water are prepared and ready to take outside with cups each day. I observed these pitchers in the kitchen refrigerator. She also stated that the teachers can call her and request cups of water be brought to the classrooms as needed. The administrator reported that she buys single use water bottles each week to have available in addition to the pitcher of water. She stated that it is the school’s policy to allow parents to bring water bottles for the children. She stated that recently a parent brought in a large water bottle, and that the parent was told it was too big. I observed individual water bottles brought from home in two (2) children’s cubbies in space 2. I observed 2-way radios available for staff. Based on the information provided by staff, the reporters’ information, and my investigation/observations, this allegation is unconfirmed. The following violation(s) were observed Violation Number Comment Rule 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space 2, diaper cream and teething gel for one (1) child were stored in the child's cubby. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen (18)-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five (75) percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The diaper cream and teething gel were removed from the classroom during my visit. Since this violation was corrected, a follow up letter is not needed at this time. Continue to ensure water is available throughout the day. Promoting water as a healthy beverage helps children stay hydrated and improves cognitive function. Technical assistance: Today we discussed procedures for transitioning children from space 1 to space 2. You stated you are planning to reopen one of the other classrooms. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me with questions or concerns at 910-364-4898 or Natalie.m.pond@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 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/13/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:10 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 13, 2025. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 82%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven (7) indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four (4) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Children ages 1-2 in space 1 were observed in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities. Children 2-3 years of age in space 2 sat at the group table and discussed shapes. Children 3-4 years of age in space 4 also sat at the group table and traced numbers with markers. Age-appropriate materials and activities were available for all age groups. Lunch scheduled for today was chicken noodle soup, applesauce, corn, and milk. Ms. Bryant reported that there are no second shift children currently enrolled. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of disinfectant was stored on a shelf in space 2. In addition, a container of sanitizing wipes was stored under the sink rather than a minimum of 5 feet out of reach. .2820(b) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Monthly playground inspections were not completed for November and December of 2024. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff member did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to her qualification expiring January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. All staff did not have a current annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff member who was previously qualified did not have a valid qualification letter on file. Her qualification expired January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan has not been reviewed with staff since 2023. .0607(f) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by January 27, 2025. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected, and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: K. Jacobs has a qualification letter that expired on January 7, 2025, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by January 28, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. The trained staff shall review the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) annually, or when information in the plan changes, to ensure all information is current. All staff shall review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review shall be maintained at the center in the individual's personnel file or in a file designated for EPR documents. The date of review should be noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet. Today I suggested you plan to conduct the review at a staff meeting held at the same time every year to help you remember. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today I suggested having opening staff walk through all approved spaces to ensure hazardous products are stored accurately. Each employee's personnel file shall contain an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. These are to be completed annually. Today we discussed creating a way to track these dates to ensure they are completed within the time frame. Reminders: CPR/First Aid certification will expire for several staff in February 2025. Be reminded CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training K. Jacobs needs 10 hours of on-going training hours by January 23, 2025. Health questionnaires by staff are due by January 23, 2025. Today Ms. Bryant stated she is looking to reduce her hours and a replacement director will be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that the appropriate paperwork can be completed. The crib mattresses in space 1 are worn. Today we discussed replacing the mattresses in the near future. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance, please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/13/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:10 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 13, 2025. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 82%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven (7) indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four (4) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Children ages 1-2 in space 1 were observed in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities. Children 2-3 years of age in space 2 sat at the group table and discussed shapes. Children 3-4 years of age in space 4 also sat at the group table and traced numbers with markers. Age-appropriate materials and activities were available for all age groups. Lunch scheduled for today was chicken noodle soup, applesauce, corn, and milk. Ms. Bryant reported that there are no second shift children currently enrolled. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of disinfectant was stored on a shelf in space 2. In addition, a container of sanitizing wipes was stored under the sink rather than a minimum of 5 feet out of reach. .2820(b) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Monthly playground inspections were not completed for November and December of 2024. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff member did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to her qualification expiring January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. All staff did not have a current annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff member who was previously qualified did not have a valid qualification letter on file. Her qualification expired January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan has not been reviewed with staff since 2023. .0607(f) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by January 27, 2025. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected, and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: K. Jacobs has a qualification letter that expired on January 7, 2025, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by January 28, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. The trained staff shall review the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) annually, or when information in the plan changes, to ensure all information is current. All staff shall review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review shall be maintained at the center in the individual's personnel file or in a file designated for EPR documents. The date of review should be noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet. Today I suggested you plan to conduct the review at a staff meeting held at the same time every year to help you remember. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today I suggested having opening staff walk through all approved spaces to ensure hazardous products are stored accurately. Each employee's personnel file shall contain an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. These are to be completed annually. Today we discussed creating a way to track these dates to ensure they are completed within the time frame. Reminders: CPR/First Aid certification will expire for several staff in February 2025. Be reminded CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training K. Jacobs needs 10 hours of on-going training hours by January 23, 2025. Health questionnaires by staff are due by January 23, 2025. Today Ms. Bryant stated she is looking to reduce her hours and a replacement director will be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that the appropriate paperwork can be completed. The crib mattresses in space 1 are worn. Today we discussed replacing the mattresses in the near future. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance, please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/13/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:10 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 13, 2025. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 82%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven (7) indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four (4) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Children ages 1-2 in space 1 were observed in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities. Children 2-3 years of age in space 2 sat at the group table and discussed shapes. Children 3-4 years of age in space 4 also sat at the group table and traced numbers with markers. Age-appropriate materials and activities were available for all age groups. Lunch scheduled for today was chicken noodle soup, applesauce, corn, and milk. Ms. Bryant reported that there are no second shift children currently enrolled. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of disinfectant was stored on a shelf in space 2. In addition, a container of sanitizing wipes was stored under the sink rather than a minimum of 5 feet out of reach. .2820(b) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Monthly playground inspections were not completed for November and December of 2024. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff member did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to her qualification expiring January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. All staff did not have a current annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff member who was previously qualified did not have a valid qualification letter on file. Her qualification expired January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan has not been reviewed with staff since 2023. .0607(f) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by January 27, 2025. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected, and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: K. Jacobs has a qualification letter that expired on January 7, 2025, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by January 28, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. The trained staff shall review the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) annually, or when information in the plan changes, to ensure all information is current. All staff shall review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review shall be maintained at the center in the individual's personnel file or in a file designated for EPR documents. The date of review should be noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet. Today I suggested you plan to conduct the review at a staff meeting held at the same time every year to help you remember. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today I suggested having opening staff walk through all approved spaces to ensure hazardous products are stored accurately. Each employee's personnel file shall contain an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. These are to be completed annually. Today we discussed creating a way to track these dates to ensure they are completed within the time frame. Reminders: CPR/First Aid certification will expire for several staff in February 2025. Be reminded CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training K. Jacobs needs 10 hours of on-going training hours by January 23, 2025. Health questionnaires by staff are due by January 23, 2025. Today Ms. Bryant stated she is looking to reduce her hours and a replacement director will be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that the appropriate paperwork can be completed. The crib mattresses in space 1 are worn. Today we discussed replacing the mattresses in the near future. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance, please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/13/2025 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 11:10 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 13, 2025. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 82%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven (7) indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four (4) spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one (1) is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Children ages 1-2 in space 1 were observed in free play with age-appropriate materials and activities. Children 2-3 years of age in space 2 sat at the group table and discussed shapes. Children 3-4 years of age in space 4 also sat at the group table and traced numbers with markers. Age-appropriate materials and activities were available for all age groups. Lunch scheduled for today was chicken noodle soup, applesauce, corn, and milk. Ms. Bryant reported that there are no second shift children currently enrolled. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of disinfectant was stored on a shelf in space 2. In addition, a container of sanitizing wipes was stored under the sink rather than a minimum of 5 feet out of reach. .2820(b) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Monthly playground inspections were not completed for November and December of 2024. .0605(q) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). A staff member did not complete and submit the required forms to complete a criminal background check prior to her qualification expiring January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. All staff did not have a current annual staff evaluation on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A staff member who was previously qualified did not have a valid qualification letter on file. Her qualification expired January 7, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan has not been reviewed with staff since 2023. .0607(f) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by January 27, 2025. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected, and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: K. Jacobs has a qualification letter that expired on January 7, 2025, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by January 28, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, the employee cannot be at the facility any longer until they receive their qualification letter. The trained staff shall review the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) annually, or when information in the plan changes, to ensure all information is current. All staff shall review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review shall be maintained at the center in the individual's personnel file or in a file designated for EPR documents. The date of review should be noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet. Today I suggested you plan to conduct the review at a staff meeting held at the same time every year to help you remember. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today I suggested having opening staff walk through all approved spaces to ensure hazardous products are stored accurately. Each employee's personnel file shall contain an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. These are to be completed annually. Today we discussed creating a way to track these dates to ensure they are completed within the time frame. Reminders: CPR/First Aid certification will expire for several staff in February 2025. Be reminded CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training K. Jacobs needs 10 hours of on-going training hours by January 23, 2025. Health questionnaires by staff are due by January 23, 2025. Today Ms. Bryant stated she is looking to reduce her hours and a replacement director will be hired. You must notify me when this occurs so that the appropriate paperwork can be completed. The crib mattresses in space 1 are worn. Today we discussed replacing the mattresses in the near future. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance, please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type and to verify correction of violations cited during the July 11, 2024 Annual Compliance visit. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Upon arrival, six school age children and two preschool children were observed on the fenced in playground with the swingset. School age children were observed pushing preschool children on the swings, and a teacher was not observed in this space. The teacher assigned to the school age children, L. Pearsey, was observed sitting in a chair on a separate playground, supervising children two and three years of age. A second teacher, S. Jacobs, was observed outside the fenced area, supervising preschool and school age children riding tricycles on the sidewalks. A third teacher, S. Elliott, came out of one of the classroom doors and entered the playground where the two- and three-year-old children were playing. When I told the teachers that one of them needed to go onto the playground with the swingset, Ms. Jacobs entered that playground and Ms. Pearsey took over supervision of the children riding tricycles. Approximately ten minutes later, two additional teachers, K. Jacobs and T. Graham, brought three children one and two years of age onto the same playground where two- and three-year-old children were playing. About five minutes later Ms. Elliott took children two and three years of age inside to their classroom. Ms. S. Jacobs also took her group of three- and four-year-old children inside shortly thereafter. A total of twenty children were observed in care today. Indoors, children were observed in free choice and large group activities. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of Beefaroni with peas and potatoes, mixed fruit, toast and milk was served. Children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children from Spaces #2 and 4 rested on appropriately spaced cots in Space #7 after lunch. School age participated in quiet activities during this time. Today a new staff member, T. Graham, was observed. Ms. Bryant stated she had previously thought Ms. Graham would not be returning to work, but she did in fact return to work today. Her file was monitored for requirements today. A compliance letter for the July 11, 2024 visit was received today. The following violations were confirmed as corrected today: -Item #201: Twenty-five square feet of indoor space per child was provided in each space today. Ms. S. Jacobs is now assigned to Space #4, and she stated that all of the children are wearing Pull-ups or underwear as they are working on toilet training. She stated she has not had to complete any diaper changing routines, therefore she has had no reason to take any of the children assigned to her into Space #2. Staff members stated they were reminded of each room’s capacity limit and where to find it on the staff-child ratio charts, so they will ensure they do not exceed capacities, even when groups need to be combined. -Item #705: The protruding bolts have been removed from base of the play house. Additional safety hazards were not observed. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Upon arrival, eight children ranging from three to twelve years of age were observed on a fenced in playground without a staff member present in the space. .1801(a)(1-5) 452 Separate outdoor play areas or time schedules were not provided for children under two when 15 or more children were in care. At approximately 9:30 A.M, children one year of age entered the same playground as a group of children two and three years of age. Twenty children were in care. .0605(c) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The required Emergency Information Form was not on file for a staff member who began employment April 24, 2024. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. A staff member who began employment April 24, 2024 has not yet completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of this policy was not on file for a staff member who began employment April 24, 2024 and was observed working with children under five years of age today. .0608(d)(1-4) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 31, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided to you, Ms. Bryant, and to each individual staff member present today regarding the definition of supervision as stated in the Child Care Rules. As discussed, a staff member must always be present in each space where children are present, whether it is a classroom or an outdoor space. Simply being able to visually supervise children from a distance does not meet requirements of the definition. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 states: “(1) Staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render immediate assistance; (2) Staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) Staff must know where each child is located and be aware of children’s activities at all times; (4) Staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs and capabilities of each child;” As discussed, supervision is paramount to quality child care as it is basic to the safety of children and the prevention of injury while maintaining quality child care. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. The importance of supervision is not only to protect children from physical injury, but from harm that can occur from teasing/bullying/inappropriate topics discussed, or inappropriate behavior. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities and developmental milestones, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. Technical assistance was provided during the July 11, 2024 visit regarding having separate outdoor spaces or times for children under two years of age when fifteen or more children are in care. As discussed then and again today, you can adjust the scheduled outdoor times to ensure children under two years of age are not on the same playground at the same time as older children. Today I assisted you in re-evaluating outdoor times and spaces for each group to ensure children under three years of age may be kept separate, while still using earlier outdoor times due to heat advisories which may begin midday. Children one and two years of age may go outdoors from 9:00-9:30 A.M., children two through four years of age may go outdoors from 9:30-10:30 A.M., and school age children may also go outdoors at this time but on a separate playground if they wish. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and sixteen hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. Today you stated orientation topics for Ms. Graham were not completed due to her medical leave and your uncertainty that she would be returning. As discussed, now that she is back, all remaining topics must be completed by July 31, 2024. Remember to send a copy of the orientation documentation with your compliance letter. I also reviewed her staff file checklist with you to ensure completion of required forms and ensure tracking of deadlines based on her start date. You were able to get her to complete some forms today to correct some of the violations. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding assigning an early morning staff member the job of wiping down playground equipment and preparing each outdoor space for children’s play prior to anyone going outside. This will ensure that children do not have to wait to begin gross motor activities when they get outdoors, and cut down on competition for materials which are not spread out between the spaces. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Please be aware repeated violations of this nature and/or a compliance history below 75% may result in Administrative Action being recommended against your license. As discussed, I will contact you to arrange a rules review specific to recently cited violations regardless. Please also have your updated documentation for the change of Authorized Individual ready to submit at the next visit. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed, and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/17/2024 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 7/17/2024 Age: From 1 To 12 Total Minutes: 235 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type and to verify correction of violations cited during the July 11, 2024 Annual Compliance visit. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Upon arrival, six school age children and two preschool children were observed on the fenced in playground with the swingset. School age children were observed pushing preschool children on the swings, and a teacher was not observed in this space. The teacher assigned to the school age children, L. Pearsey, was observed sitting in a chair on a separate playground, supervising children two and three years of age. A second teacher, S. Jacobs, was observed outside the fenced area, supervising preschool and school age children riding tricycles on the sidewalks. A third teacher, S. Elliott, came out of one of the classroom doors and entered the playground where the two- and three-year-old children were playing. When I told the teachers that one of them needed to go onto the playground with the swingset, Ms. Jacobs entered that playground and Ms. Pearsey took over supervision of the children riding tricycles. Approximately ten minutes later, two additional teachers, K. Jacobs and T. Graham, brought three children one and two years of age onto the same playground where two- and three-year-old children were playing. About five minutes later Ms. Elliott took children two and three years of age inside to their classroom. Ms. S. Jacobs also took her group of three- and four-year-old children inside shortly thereafter. A total of twenty children were observed in care today. Indoors, children were observed in free choice and large group activities. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of Beefaroni with peas and potatoes, mixed fruit, toast and milk was served. Children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children from Spaces #2 and 4 rested on appropriately spaced cots in Space #7 after lunch. School age participated in quiet activities during this time. Today a new staff member, T. Graham, was observed. Ms. Bryant stated she had previously thought Ms. Graham would not be returning to work, but she did in fact return to work today. Her file was monitored for requirements today. A compliance letter for the July 11, 2024 visit was received today. The following violations were confirmed as corrected today: -Item #201: Twenty-five square feet of indoor space per child was provided in each space today. Ms. S. Jacobs is now assigned to Space #4, and she stated that all of the children are wearing Pull-ups or underwear as they are working on toilet training. She stated she has not had to complete any diaper changing routines, therefore she has had no reason to take any of the children assigned to her into Space #2. Staff members stated they were reminded of each room’s capacity limit and where to find it on the staff-child ratio charts, so they will ensure they do not exceed capacities, even when groups need to be combined. -Item #705: The protruding bolts have been removed from base of the play house. Additional safety hazards were not observed. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Upon arrival, eight children ranging from three to twelve years of age were observed on a fenced in playground without a staff member present in the space. .1801(a)(1-5) 452 Separate outdoor play areas or time schedules were not provided for children under two when 15 or more children were in care. At approximately 9:30 A.M, children one year of age entered the same playground as a group of children two and three years of age. Twenty children were in care. .0605(c) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The required Emergency Information Form was not on file for a staff member who began employment April 24, 2024. .0701(a) 1045 New staff, who had contact with children, did not receive at least 16 hrs. orientation within first 6 weeks. A staff member who began employment April 24, 2024 has not yet completed at least 16 hours of orientation. .1101(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of this policy was not on file for a staff member who began employment April 24, 2024 and was observed working with children under five years of age today. .0608(d)(1-4) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 31, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Technical assistance was provided to you, Ms. Bryant, and to each individual staff member present today regarding the definition of supervision as stated in the Child Care Rules. As discussed, a staff member must always be present in each space where children are present, whether it is a classroom or an outdoor space. Simply being able to visually supervise children from a distance does not meet requirements of the definition. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 states: “(1) Staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render immediate assistance; (2) Staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) Staff must know where each child is located and be aware of children’s activities at all times; (4) Staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs and capabilities of each child;” As discussed, supervision is paramount to quality child care as it is basic to the safety of children and the prevention of injury while maintaining quality child care. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. The importance of supervision is not only to protect children from physical injury, but from harm that can occur from teasing/bullying/inappropriate topics discussed, or inappropriate behavior. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities and developmental milestones, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. Technical assistance was provided during the July 11, 2024 visit regarding having separate outdoor spaces or times for children under two years of age when fifteen or more children are in care. As discussed then and again today, you can adjust the scheduled outdoor times to ensure children under two years of age are not on the same playground at the same time as older children. Today I assisted you in re-evaluating outdoor times and spaces for each group to ensure children under three years of age may be kept separate, while still using earlier outdoor times due to heat advisories which may begin midday. Children one and two years of age may go outdoors from 9:00-9:30 A.M., children two through four years of age may go outdoors from 9:30-10:30 A.M., and school age children may also go outdoors at this time but on a separate playground if they wish. Each employee who is expected to have contact with children shall receive six clock hours of training in required topic areas within the first two weeks of employment and sixteen hours of on-site orientation within the first six weeks of employment. Today you stated orientation topics for Ms. Graham were not completed due to her medical leave and your uncertainty that she would be returning. As discussed, now that she is back, all remaining topics must be completed by July 31, 2024. Remember to send a copy of the orientation documentation with your compliance letter. I also reviewed her staff file checklist with you to ensure completion of required forms and ensure tracking of deadlines based on her start date. You were able to get her to complete some forms today to correct some of the violations. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding assigning an early morning staff member the job of wiping down playground equipment and preparing each outdoor space for children’s play prior to anyone going outside. This will ensure that children do not have to wait to begin gross motor activities when they get outdoors, and cut down on competition for materials which are not spread out between the spaces. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Please be aware repeated violations of this nature and/or a compliance history below 75% may result in Administrative Action being recommended against your license. As discussed, I will contact you to arrange a rules review specific to recently cited violations regardless. Please also have your updated documentation for the change of Authorized Individual ready to submit at the next visit. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed, and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 1 To 11 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on July 9, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, children one and two years of age in Space #1 were observed in free choice activities. Children two and three years of age in Space #2 were observed engaged in a large group counting activity. In Space #4, children three and four years of age were observed playing with and discussing plastic ocean animals. School age children in Space #6 were observed in small group reading and math activities. Around 10:45 A.M., staff members began taking children outdoors. The school age children were observed playing a game of kickball in the grassy field outside of the fenced area. Children one through three years of age played with push toys, riding toys, and bubbles on the fenced in playgrounds, and children three and four years of age were observed riding tricycles on the sidewalk outside of the fenced area, as well as doing a water play activity. Permission to play outside the fenced area was on file as required. At 12:10 P.M., a lunch of pork and beans, pickles, pineapples, crackers, and milk was served. Children from Space #6 ate their lunch in the multi-purpose room, while the other children ate in their assigned classrooms. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children from Spaces #2 and 4 were observed transitioning to rest time routines in the multi-purpose room. Ms. Bryant stated the children may use this room for rest time so cots may be spread further apart and ratios may be maintained while staff members take turns going to lunch. School age children went back to Space #6 for journaling and drawing activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. At 10:30 A.M., eleven children were present in Space #2 when children from Space #4 were brought into the space for diaper changing routines. The capacity of Space #2 at 25-sq.ft. per child is ten children. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current schedule was not posted in Space #6. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Two protruding bolts were observed at the base of the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. .0601(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A cracked plastic tub with sharp edges and pinching hazards was observed accessible to children in Space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 25, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require a minimum of 25 square feet of indoor space per child. As discussed, based on this requirement, the capacity of Space #2 should never exceed 10 children. Bringing children from Space #4 to Space #2 for diaper changes today caused the capacity to be exceeded as 11 children were in the room during this time. Today I suggested you put a diaper changing table in Space #4 to avoid this violation, or have a floater or administrator take children who need diaper changes one at a time to Space #2 in order to remain in compliance. Let me know which option you choose in your compliance letter. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Broken equipment must be removed prior to children’s use, and outdoor hazards such as protrusions should be repaired prior to children’s use. Today you immediately removed the cracked plastic tub in Space #1, and stated you would ask someone to remove or repair the protruding bolts in the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. Remember to send a picture confirming this. Current daily schedules should be posted in each space used by children. Today you stated you did not know what happened to the schedule in Space #6, but the Group Leader created a new one and posted it during the visit. I urged you to occasionally check for required postings in all classrooms to avoid non-compliance in the future. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding ensuring children get outdoor time during the hot summer months. Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Today I suggested you consider what time the majority of the children arrive, and change your written schedules to reflect an earlier outdoor time to ensure as many children get the full required amount as possible. If weather is permitting, children under two years of age must have 30 minutes outdoors daily, and children two through twelve years of age must have at least an hour. Child Care Rule .0102(23) states "If weather conditions permit" means: (a) temperatures that fall within the guidelines developed by the Iowa Department of Public Health and specified on the Child Care Weather Watch chart. These guidelines shall be used when determining appropriate weather conditions for taking children outside for outdoor learning activities and playtime. This chart may be downloaded free of charge from https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/128/child%20care%20weather%20watch%20june%202020%20final.pdf; and is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments; (b) following the air quality standards as set out in 15A NCAC 18A .2832(d). The Air Quality Color Guide can be found on the Division's web site at https://www.deq.nc.gov/mitigation-services/publicfolder/library/news/brochures/air-quality-color-guide/download; and (c) no active precipitation. Caregivers may choose to go outdoors when there is active precipitation if children have appropriate clothing such as rain boots and rain coats, or if they are under a covered area. Please also remember that children under two years of age must use a separate playground or have a separate outdoor time from children two years of age and older. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding off-premise activities. As discussed, you may use a blanket permission form for children to play outside the fenced area, however walking children off premises to the park next door requires a different type of permission. Today I offered you two choices based on Child Care Rules: you may create a separate off-premise activity permission form for each trip you wish to take to the park, or you may use a blanket permission form valid for up to one year if you plan and schedule the trips, sharing the schedule with parents ahead of time and posting it in the center. Remember you may not take children off premises on a day or time for which parents have not already given written authorization. A blank off premise activity permission form was emailed to you today. As discussed during the last visit, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. Today I emailed this link to the Lead Teacher assigned to Space #4 and suggested you review it together and make your selection. I will monitor for compliance with this requirement during the Annual Compliance visit. Rated License Information The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Please have your updated documentation for the change of Authorized Individual ready to submit at the visit. Remember to update the ratio charts in Spaces #1 and 4 as discussed today. You must also conduct a lockdown or shelter-in-place drill by July 12, 2024. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa You may also refer to the June 6, 2024 email blast for more information. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 1 To 11 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on July 9, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, children one and two years of age in Space #1 were observed in free choice activities. Children two and three years of age in Space #2 were observed engaged in a large group counting activity. In Space #4, children three and four years of age were observed playing with and discussing plastic ocean animals. School age children in Space #6 were observed in small group reading and math activities. Around 10:45 A.M., staff members began taking children outdoors. The school age children were observed playing a game of kickball in the grassy field outside of the fenced area. Children one through three years of age played with push toys, riding toys, and bubbles on the fenced in playgrounds, and children three and four years of age were observed riding tricycles on the sidewalk outside of the fenced area, as well as doing a water play activity. Permission to play outside the fenced area was on file as required. At 12:10 P.M., a lunch of pork and beans, pickles, pineapples, crackers, and milk was served. Children from Space #6 ate their lunch in the multi-purpose room, while the other children ate in their assigned classrooms. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children from Spaces #2 and 4 were observed transitioning to rest time routines in the multi-purpose room. Ms. Bryant stated the children may use this room for rest time so cots may be spread further apart and ratios may be maintained while staff members take turns going to lunch. School age children went back to Space #6 for journaling and drawing activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. At 10:30 A.M., eleven children were present in Space #2 when children from Space #4 were brought into the space for diaper changing routines. The capacity of Space #2 at 25-sq.ft. per child is ten children. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current schedule was not posted in Space #6. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Two protruding bolts were observed at the base of the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. .0601(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A cracked plastic tub with sharp edges and pinching hazards was observed accessible to children in Space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 25, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require a minimum of 25 square feet of indoor space per child. As discussed, based on this requirement, the capacity of Space #2 should never exceed 10 children. Bringing children from Space #4 to Space #2 for diaper changes today caused the capacity to be exceeded as 11 children were in the room during this time. Today I suggested you put a diaper changing table in Space #4 to avoid this violation, or have a floater or administrator take children who need diaper changes one at a time to Space #2 in order to remain in compliance. Let me know which option you choose in your compliance letter. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Broken equipment must be removed prior to children’s use, and outdoor hazards such as protrusions should be repaired prior to children’s use. Today you immediately removed the cracked plastic tub in Space #1, and stated you would ask someone to remove or repair the protruding bolts in the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. Remember to send a picture confirming this. Current daily schedules should be posted in each space used by children. Today you stated you did not know what happened to the schedule in Space #6, but the Group Leader created a new one and posted it during the visit. I urged you to occasionally check for required postings in all classrooms to avoid non-compliance in the future. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding ensuring children get outdoor time during the hot summer months. Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Today I suggested you consider what time the majority of the children arrive, and change your written schedules to reflect an earlier outdoor time to ensure as many children get the full required amount as possible. If weather is permitting, children under two years of age must have 30 minutes outdoors daily, and children two through twelve years of age must have at least an hour. Child Care Rule .0102(23) states "If weather conditions permit" means: (a) temperatures that fall within the guidelines developed by the Iowa Department of Public Health and specified on the Child Care Weather Watch chart. These guidelines shall be used when determining appropriate weather conditions for taking children outside for outdoor learning activities and playtime. This chart may be downloaded free of charge from https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/128/child%20care%20weather%20watch%20june%202020%20final.pdf; and is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments; (b) following the air quality standards as set out in 15A NCAC 18A .2832(d). The Air Quality Color Guide can be found on the Division's web site at https://www.deq.nc.gov/mitigation-services/publicfolder/library/news/brochures/air-quality-color-guide/download; and (c) no active precipitation. Caregivers may choose to go outdoors when there is active precipitation if children have appropriate clothing such as rain boots and rain coats, or if they are under a covered area. Please also remember that children under two years of age must use a separate playground or have a separate outdoor time from children two years of age and older. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding off-premise activities. As discussed, you may use a blanket permission form for children to play outside the fenced area, however walking children off premises to the park next door requires a different type of permission. Today I offered you two choices based on Child Care Rules: you may create a separate off-premise activity permission form for each trip you wish to take to the park, or you may use a blanket permission form valid for up to one year if you plan and schedule the trips, sharing the schedule with parents ahead of time and posting it in the center. Remember you may not take children off premises on a day or time for which parents have not already given written authorization. A blank off premise activity permission form was emailed to you today. As discussed during the last visit, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. Today I emailed this link to the Lead Teacher assigned to Space #4 and suggested you review it together and make your selection. I will monitor for compliance with this requirement during the Annual Compliance visit. Rated License Information The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Please have your updated documentation for the change of Authorized Individual ready to submit at the visit. Remember to update the ratio charts in Spaces #1 and 4 as discussed today. You must also conduct a lockdown or shelter-in-place drill by July 12, 2024. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa You may also refer to the June 6, 2024 email blast for more information. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 1 To 11 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on July 9, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, children one and two years of age in Space #1 were observed in free choice activities. Children two and three years of age in Space #2 were observed engaged in a large group counting activity. In Space #4, children three and four years of age were observed playing with and discussing plastic ocean animals. School age children in Space #6 were observed in small group reading and math activities. Around 10:45 A.M., staff members began taking children outdoors. The school age children were observed playing a game of kickball in the grassy field outside of the fenced area. Children one through three years of age played with push toys, riding toys, and bubbles on the fenced in playgrounds, and children three and four years of age were observed riding tricycles on the sidewalk outside of the fenced area, as well as doing a water play activity. Permission to play outside the fenced area was on file as required. At 12:10 P.M., a lunch of pork and beans, pickles, pineapples, crackers, and milk was served. Children from Space #6 ate their lunch in the multi-purpose room, while the other children ate in their assigned classrooms. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children from Spaces #2 and 4 were observed transitioning to rest time routines in the multi-purpose room. Ms. Bryant stated the children may use this room for rest time so cots may be spread further apart and ratios may be maintained while staff members take turns going to lunch. School age children went back to Space #6 for journaling and drawing activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. At 10:30 A.M., eleven children were present in Space #2 when children from Space #4 were brought into the space for diaper changing routines. The capacity of Space #2 at 25-sq.ft. per child is ten children. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current schedule was not posted in Space #6. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Two protruding bolts were observed at the base of the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. .0601(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A cracked plastic tub with sharp edges and pinching hazards was observed accessible to children in Space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 25, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require a minimum of 25 square feet of indoor space per child. As discussed, based on this requirement, the capacity of Space #2 should never exceed 10 children. Bringing children from Space #4 to Space #2 for diaper changes today caused the capacity to be exceeded as 11 children were in the room during this time. Today I suggested you put a diaper changing table in Space #4 to avoid this violation, or have a floater or administrator take children who need diaper changes one at a time to Space #2 in order to remain in compliance. Let me know which option you choose in your compliance letter. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Broken equipment must be removed prior to children’s use, and outdoor hazards such as protrusions should be repaired prior to children’s use. Today you immediately removed the cracked plastic tub in Space #1, and stated you would ask someone to remove or repair the protruding bolts in the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. Remember to send a picture confirming this. Current daily schedules should be posted in each space used by children. Today you stated you did not know what happened to the schedule in Space #6, but the Group Leader created a new one and posted it during the visit. I urged you to occasionally check for required postings in all classrooms to avoid non-compliance in the future. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding ensuring children get outdoor time during the hot summer months. Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Today I suggested you consider what time the majority of the children arrive, and change your written schedules to reflect an earlier outdoor time to ensure as many children get the full required amount as possible. If weather is permitting, children under two years of age must have 30 minutes outdoors daily, and children two through twelve years of age must have at least an hour. Child Care Rule .0102(23) states "If weather conditions permit" means: (a) temperatures that fall within the guidelines developed by the Iowa Department of Public Health and specified on the Child Care Weather Watch chart. These guidelines shall be used when determining appropriate weather conditions for taking children outside for outdoor learning activities and playtime. This chart may be downloaded free of charge from https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/128/child%20care%20weather%20watch%20june%202020%20final.pdf; and is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments; (b) following the air quality standards as set out in 15A NCAC 18A .2832(d). The Air Quality Color Guide can be found on the Division's web site at https://www.deq.nc.gov/mitigation-services/publicfolder/library/news/brochures/air-quality-color-guide/download; and (c) no active precipitation. Caregivers may choose to go outdoors when there is active precipitation if children have appropriate clothing such as rain boots and rain coats, or if they are under a covered area. Please also remember that children under two years of age must use a separate playground or have a separate outdoor time from children two years of age and older. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding off-premise activities. As discussed, you may use a blanket permission form for children to play outside the fenced area, however walking children off premises to the park next door requires a different type of permission. Today I offered you two choices based on Child Care Rules: you may create a separate off-premise activity permission form for each trip you wish to take to the park, or you may use a blanket permission form valid for up to one year if you plan and schedule the trips, sharing the schedule with parents ahead of time and posting it in the center. Remember you may not take children off premises on a day or time for which parents have not already given written authorization. A blank off premise activity permission form was emailed to you today. As discussed during the last visit, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. Today I emailed this link to the Lead Teacher assigned to Space #4 and suggested you review it together and make your selection. I will monitor for compliance with this requirement during the Annual Compliance visit. Rated License Information The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Please have your updated documentation for the change of Authorized Individual ready to submit at the visit. Remember to update the ratio charts in Spaces #1 and 4 as discussed today. You must also conduct a lockdown or shelter-in-place drill by July 12, 2024. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa You may also refer to the June 6, 2024 email blast for more information. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 1 To 11 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:40 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on July 9, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted January 23, 2024. A Superior sanitation rating was earned March 25, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, children one and two years of age in Space #1 were observed in free choice activities. Children two and three years of age in Space #2 were observed engaged in a large group counting activity. In Space #4, children three and four years of age were observed playing with and discussing plastic ocean animals. School age children in Space #6 were observed in small group reading and math activities. Around 10:45 A.M., staff members began taking children outdoors. The school age children were observed playing a game of kickball in the grassy field outside of the fenced area. Children one through three years of age played with push toys, riding toys, and bubbles on the fenced in playgrounds, and children three and four years of age were observed riding tricycles on the sidewalk outside of the fenced area, as well as doing a water play activity. Permission to play outside the fenced area was on file as required. At 12:10 P.M., a lunch of pork and beans, pickles, pineapples, crackers, and milk was served. Children from Space #6 ate their lunch in the multi-purpose room, while the other children ate in their assigned classrooms. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children from Spaces #2 and 4 were observed transitioning to rest time routines in the multi-purpose room. Ms. Bryant stated the children may use this room for rest time so cots may be spread further apart and ratios may be maintained while staff members take turns going to lunch. School age children went back to Space #6 for journaling and drawing activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. At 10:30 A.M., eleven children were present in Space #2 when children from Space #4 were brought into the space for diaper changing routines. The capacity of Space #2 at 25-sq.ft. per child is ten children. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 415 A current schedule was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current schedule was not posted in Space #6. GS 110-91(12);.0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Two protruding bolts were observed at the base of the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. .0601(c) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. A cracked plastic tub with sharp edges and pinching hazards was observed accessible to children in Space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 25, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require a minimum of 25 square feet of indoor space per child. As discussed, based on this requirement, the capacity of Space #2 should never exceed 10 children. Bringing children from Space #4 to Space #2 for diaper changes today caused the capacity to be exceeded as 11 children were in the room during this time. Today I suggested you put a diaper changing table in Space #4 to avoid this violation, or have a floater or administrator take children who need diaper changes one at a time to Space #2 in order to remain in compliance. Let me know which option you choose in your compliance letter. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0604 (p) states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Broken equipment must be removed prior to children’s use, and outdoor hazards such as protrusions should be repaired prior to children’s use. Today you immediately removed the cracked plastic tub in Space #1, and stated you would ask someone to remove or repair the protruding bolts in the playhouse on the playground used by preschool and school age children. Remember to send a picture confirming this. Current daily schedules should be posted in each space used by children. Today you stated you did not know what happened to the schedule in Space #6, but the Group Leader created a new one and posted it during the visit. I urged you to occasionally check for required postings in all classrooms to avoid non-compliance in the future. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding ensuring children get outdoor time during the hot summer months. Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Today I suggested you consider what time the majority of the children arrive, and change your written schedules to reflect an earlier outdoor time to ensure as many children get the full required amount as possible. If weather is permitting, children under two years of age must have 30 minutes outdoors daily, and children two through twelve years of age must have at least an hour. Child Care Rule .0102(23) states "If weather conditions permit" means: (a) temperatures that fall within the guidelines developed by the Iowa Department of Public Health and specified on the Child Care Weather Watch chart. These guidelines shall be used when determining appropriate weather conditions for taking children outside for outdoor learning activities and playtime. This chart may be downloaded free of charge from https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/128/child%20care%20weather%20watch%20june%202020%20final.pdf; and is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments; (b) following the air quality standards as set out in 15A NCAC 18A .2832(d). The Air Quality Color Guide can be found on the Division's web site at https://www.deq.nc.gov/mitigation-services/publicfolder/library/news/brochures/air-quality-color-guide/download; and (c) no active precipitation. Caregivers may choose to go outdoors when there is active precipitation if children have appropriate clothing such as rain boots and rain coats, or if they are under a covered area. Please also remember that children under two years of age must use a separate playground or have a separate outdoor time from children two years of age and older. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding off-premise activities. As discussed, you may use a blanket permission form for children to play outside the fenced area, however walking children off premises to the park next door requires a different type of permission. Today I offered you two choices based on Child Care Rules: you may create a separate off-premise activity permission form for each trip you wish to take to the park, or you may use a blanket permission form valid for up to one year if you plan and schedule the trips, sharing the schedule with parents ahead of time and posting it in the center. Remember you may not take children off premises on a day or time for which parents have not already given written authorization. A blank off premise activity permission form was emailed to you today. As discussed during the last visit, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. Today I emailed this link to the Lead Teacher assigned to Space #4 and suggested you review it together and make your selection. I will monitor for compliance with this requirement during the Annual Compliance visit. Rated License Information The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to timelines discussed previously, however you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Please have your updated documentation for the change of Authorized Individual ready to submit at the visit. Remember to update the ratio charts in Spaces #1 and 4 as discussed today. You must also conduct a lockdown or shelter-in-place drill by July 12, 2024. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. It’s time to enroll your facility in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids program to identify and eliminate exposure to lead and asbestos hazards in building infrastructure. This program is an expansion of Clean Water for Carolina Kids, which previously tested all child care centers in the state for lead in water at drinking and food preparation taps. As this is a legislatively mandated effort, facilities are required to meet rule requirements to have tap water tested every three years and to have inspections for lead paint and asbestos if applicable. Please see steps below: 1. Sign Up – Pre-enrollment webinars are available at cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina or paste https://bit.ly/3CK-webinar into your web browser to see available dates and times for the next month. 2. Enroll – At www.cleanwaterforUSkids.org/carolina using the PIN and complete the enrollment surveys for three program sections: 1) lead in water, 2) lead-based paint, and 3) asbestos. 3. Evaluate Hazards - The program will ship your facility a water sample kit and may coordinate an on-site visit by a professional to assess for lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, if needed. 4. Receive Results – Receive your results, recommendations, and water mitigation support, if needed. 5. Request Reimbursement - If you choose to conduct lead-based paint or asbestos mitigation, you can request reimbursement from NC DHHS. Visit the web site at: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/asbestos-and-lead-based-paint-reimbursement-program-arpa You may also refer to the June 6, 2024 email blast for more information. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, printed and reviewed with you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 8, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 83%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, nine of the ten children present were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. Children ranged in age from one through four. A second staff member entered Space #1 shortly after my arrival. The tenth child present was observed in Space #4 with a speech therapist; her qualification letter was on file as required. Before 9:00 A.M., one staff member took children five children two through four years of age to Space #2 for breakfast, leaving the other staff member with four children one and two years of age in Space #1. Breakfast served consisted of waffles, scrambled eggs, bananas and milk. Next, children in both spaces were observed in free choice activities including playing with musical instruments and fine motor toys. Children from Space #2 went to one of the fenced in playgrounds at 11:00 A. M. It was observed that new materials including riding toys, dramatic play and building materials have been added to the playgrounds. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of chicken noodle soup with carrots, crackers, applesauce and milk was served. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children in Space #2 were observed washing hands after lunch. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the summary of NC Child Care Law was not observed in one of the two children's files today. GS 110-102 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed together in Space #1. It was reported that the facility opens at 6:30am. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans were not current in Spaces #2 and 4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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 #2, materials were not available to support an art activity area or a blocks activity area. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. One of the wooden see saws on the playground used by preschool children was observed split in the middle. .0601(c) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Annual health questionnaires were not on file for two staff members. .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three staff members did not complete all required health and safety training topics within the first year of employment. .1102(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not observed in either of the two children's files reviewed today. .0608(b)(1-6) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by February 6, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited As you selected to operate under voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, these ratios must be followed at all times. In addition, children of certain age groups may only be combined during the first and last hour of the day, provided that you can maintain ratios. Today I reminded you that children between 12 and 24 months of age may only be grouped with children three years of age and older during the first and last hours of the day. If the facility opens at 6:30 A.M., Space #2 should be opened at 7:30 A.M. so children one year of age may be cared for separately from children three years of age and older. Staff members must also ensure they do not leave the room for any reason if it would cause another staff member to be out of ratio. There were enough staff members present this morning to open Space #2 and to maintain ratios; you stated you were not sure why the children were still combined at 8:40 A.M. or why one of the staff members left Space #1 when there were nine children, but you would talk to staff members about what happened. I strongly urge you to ensure all staff members know the rules about ratios and combining age groups so they can comply when you are not here. I also urge you to put someone in charge of ensuring staff members and children are in the correct rooms at the right times to maintain compliance with these rules when you are not here. Technical assistance was provided during visits July 13, 2023 and July 20, 2023 regarding requirements for activity areas and materials in Spaces #2 and 4. As discussed, minimum requirements for preschool children in G.S. 110-91(12) include that four of the five activity areas are offered daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. When a program has earned two or more points in Program Standards, all five of the activity areas listed shall be available each day and music, sand/water and science shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. Today I suggested you add sets of cardboard blocks to Spaces #2 and 4 as well as a set of foam blocks to Space #2. You also need to ensure sufficient art materials such as drawing utensils with paper, playdough with cookie cutters, paint with paper and collage materials with glue are accessible daily in Spaces #2 and 4. Activity plans for each space must be posted and current as well. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding recordkeeping. As discussed, items such as staff health questionnaires and emergency information must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Regarding children’s files, I urged you to conduct a complete audit using the Child File Checklist as reviewed today. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Technical assistance was provided today regarding completion of Health and Safety training topics, most of which are now available for FREE on DCDEE's training platform called Moodle. All topics must be completed within the first year of employment. As discussed, Sydni Elliott and Teresa Brown must each complete the Medication in Child Care topic, and Latarsia Pearsey must complete all required topics. Please see instructions for Moodle access below: 1. Visit https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ 2. Log-in with your NCID and password. The log-in is in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. After log-in, scroll to the bottom of the page. In the ‘Search courses’ box, you should type in the short name “Year 2024 CCDF” and then click go. You should not register for prior year courses as they are no longer available. 4. After completing the course search, you should be able to enroll in the courses. 5. Once registered, you will then need to use the “ADDITIONAL DIRECTIONS” for step-by-step instructions. Medication in Child Care is a separate module which must be located using the same search directions as above, but search “medication” instead. Remember to use the Record of Health and Safety training, found under Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website, to track completion of trainings. Regarding the broken see saw, you stated it was just reported to you yesterday and you had told staff members to make it inaccessible. You blocked it off today and stated you would request a repair from maintenance staff. Moving forward, I urge you to ensure staff members know to immediately make broken equipment inaccessible until repairs can be made to prevent potential injury to children. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding activity plans for preschool children. As discussed, activity plans are detailed plans which outline activities that will encourage children’s growth and development. The activities outlined on the activity plan will typically occur during the “Activity Center” times indicated on the daily schedule. Activities should be intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development: (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. “Free choice” should rarely be written on an activity plan as it is always an option for children. Creating a developmentally appropriate activity plan will depend on many things, most importantly, the age of the children. Questions staff members may ask themselves include, “Who is the target age group and what are the developmental milestones for this age group? Are the majority of children the same age and / or do they have the same skill level for the activities I have planned? What concept, skill, or knowledge do I hope to introduce to the children? When thinking of the developmental levels of these children, are the activities I have planned challenging but not overwhelming for this group of children? How can I change my classroom environment to emphasize the theme and promote learning? What props or supporting materials will I need?" Today I encouraged you to seek out activity planning training from Region 4 CCR&R staff for assistance. As discussed today, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. A curriculum is what you want children to learn and what you plan to teach. Curriculum should be based on what is known about child development and learning for any given age range. Your curriculum guides you in determining achievable goals; what knowledge, skills, and dispositions (attitudes) you want children to learn and develop. It is recommended that good curriculum be a written document that is used in planning experiences for children. Please let me know if you need assistance in selecting your new curriculum. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed during the Routine Unannounced visit July 13, 2023, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you again to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and L. Pearsey have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. In addition, a violation may be cited if all lead teachers do not have at least the NCECC. I strongly recommend that any staff members without the NCECC try the Equivalency exam on Moodle. This may be a good option for those who are not able to enroll in coursework. Today we also discussed your Quality Point, as the ones printed on your license during your last reassessment no longer apply. It was verified that you are still eligible for the other Quality Point you chose, however, using the Education option of “Administrator has at least 10 years of documented experience.” Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Save the date for a Zoom Provider Meeting! The meeting for center owners and directors will be held February 7, 2024 at 10am. Please refer to the email invitation with Zoom link sent January 12, 2024 for instructions on how to join. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 8, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 83%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, nine of the ten children present were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. Children ranged in age from one through four. A second staff member entered Space #1 shortly after my arrival. The tenth child present was observed in Space #4 with a speech therapist; her qualification letter was on file as required. Before 9:00 A.M., one staff member took children five children two through four years of age to Space #2 for breakfast, leaving the other staff member with four children one and two years of age in Space #1. Breakfast served consisted of waffles, scrambled eggs, bananas and milk. Next, children in both spaces were observed in free choice activities including playing with musical instruments and fine motor toys. Children from Space #2 went to one of the fenced in playgrounds at 11:00 A. M. It was observed that new materials including riding toys, dramatic play and building materials have been added to the playgrounds. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of chicken noodle soup with carrots, crackers, applesauce and milk was served. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children in Space #2 were observed washing hands after lunch. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the summary of NC Child Care Law was not observed in one of the two children's files today. GS 110-102 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed together in Space #1. It was reported that the facility opens at 6:30am. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans were not current in Spaces #2 and 4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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 #2, materials were not available to support an art activity area or a blocks activity area. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. One of the wooden see saws on the playground used by preschool children was observed split in the middle. .0601(c) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Annual health questionnaires were not on file for two staff members. .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three staff members did not complete all required health and safety training topics within the first year of employment. .1102(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not observed in either of the two children's files reviewed today. .0608(b)(1-6) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by February 6, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited As you selected to operate under voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, these ratios must be followed at all times. In addition, children of certain age groups may only be combined during the first and last hour of the day, provided that you can maintain ratios. Today I reminded you that children between 12 and 24 months of age may only be grouped with children three years of age and older during the first and last hours of the day. If the facility opens at 6:30 A.M., Space #2 should be opened at 7:30 A.M. so children one year of age may be cared for separately from children three years of age and older. Staff members must also ensure they do not leave the room for any reason if it would cause another staff member to be out of ratio. There were enough staff members present this morning to open Space #2 and to maintain ratios; you stated you were not sure why the children were still combined at 8:40 A.M. or why one of the staff members left Space #1 when there were nine children, but you would talk to staff members about what happened. I strongly urge you to ensure all staff members know the rules about ratios and combining age groups so they can comply when you are not here. I also urge you to put someone in charge of ensuring staff members and children are in the correct rooms at the right times to maintain compliance with these rules when you are not here. Technical assistance was provided during visits July 13, 2023 and July 20, 2023 regarding requirements for activity areas and materials in Spaces #2 and 4. As discussed, minimum requirements for preschool children in G.S. 110-91(12) include that four of the five activity areas are offered daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. When a program has earned two or more points in Program Standards, all five of the activity areas listed shall be available each day and music, sand/water and science shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. Today I suggested you add sets of cardboard blocks to Spaces #2 and 4 as well as a set of foam blocks to Space #2. You also need to ensure sufficient art materials such as drawing utensils with paper, playdough with cookie cutters, paint with paper and collage materials with glue are accessible daily in Spaces #2 and 4. Activity plans for each space must be posted and current as well. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding recordkeeping. As discussed, items such as staff health questionnaires and emergency information must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Regarding children’s files, I urged you to conduct a complete audit using the Child File Checklist as reviewed today. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Technical assistance was provided today regarding completion of Health and Safety training topics, most of which are now available for FREE on DCDEE's training platform called Moodle. All topics must be completed within the first year of employment. As discussed, Sydni Elliott and Teresa Brown must each complete the Medication in Child Care topic, and Latarsia Pearsey must complete all required topics. Please see instructions for Moodle access below: 1. Visit https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ 2. Log-in with your NCID and password. The log-in is in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. After log-in, scroll to the bottom of the page. In the ‘Search courses’ box, you should type in the short name “Year 2024 CCDF” and then click go. You should not register for prior year courses as they are no longer available. 4. After completing the course search, you should be able to enroll in the courses. 5. Once registered, you will then need to use the “ADDITIONAL DIRECTIONS” for step-by-step instructions. Medication in Child Care is a separate module which must be located using the same search directions as above, but search “medication” instead. Remember to use the Record of Health and Safety training, found under Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website, to track completion of trainings. Regarding the broken see saw, you stated it was just reported to you yesterday and you had told staff members to make it inaccessible. You blocked it off today and stated you would request a repair from maintenance staff. Moving forward, I urge you to ensure staff members know to immediately make broken equipment inaccessible until repairs can be made to prevent potential injury to children. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding activity plans for preschool children. As discussed, activity plans are detailed plans which outline activities that will encourage children’s growth and development. The activities outlined on the activity plan will typically occur during the “Activity Center” times indicated on the daily schedule. Activities should be intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development: (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. “Free choice” should rarely be written on an activity plan as it is always an option for children. Creating a developmentally appropriate activity plan will depend on many things, most importantly, the age of the children. Questions staff members may ask themselves include, “Who is the target age group and what are the developmental milestones for this age group? Are the majority of children the same age and / or do they have the same skill level for the activities I have planned? What concept, skill, or knowledge do I hope to introduce to the children? When thinking of the developmental levels of these children, are the activities I have planned challenging but not overwhelming for this group of children? How can I change my classroom environment to emphasize the theme and promote learning? What props or supporting materials will I need?" Today I encouraged you to seek out activity planning training from Region 4 CCR&R staff for assistance. As discussed today, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. A curriculum is what you want children to learn and what you plan to teach. Curriculum should be based on what is known about child development and learning for any given age range. Your curriculum guides you in determining achievable goals; what knowledge, skills, and dispositions (attitudes) you want children to learn and develop. It is recommended that good curriculum be a written document that is used in planning experiences for children. Please let me know if you need assistance in selecting your new curriculum. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed during the Routine Unannounced visit July 13, 2023, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you again to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and L. Pearsey have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. In addition, a violation may be cited if all lead teachers do not have at least the NCECC. I strongly recommend that any staff members without the NCECC try the Equivalency exam on Moodle. This may be a good option for those who are not able to enroll in coursework. Today we also discussed your Quality Point, as the ones printed on your license during your last reassessment no longer apply. It was verified that you are still eligible for the other Quality Point you chose, however, using the Education option of “Administrator has at least 10 years of documented experience.” Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Save the date for a Zoom Provider Meeting! The meeting for center owners and directors will be held February 7, 2024 at 10am. Please refer to the email invitation with Zoom link sent January 12, 2024 for instructions on how to join. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 8, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 83%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, nine of the ten children present were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. Children ranged in age from one through four. A second staff member entered Space #1 shortly after my arrival. The tenth child present was observed in Space #4 with a speech therapist; her qualification letter was on file as required. Before 9:00 A.M., one staff member took children five children two through four years of age to Space #2 for breakfast, leaving the other staff member with four children one and two years of age in Space #1. Breakfast served consisted of waffles, scrambled eggs, bananas and milk. Next, children in both spaces were observed in free choice activities including playing with musical instruments and fine motor toys. Children from Space #2 went to one of the fenced in playgrounds at 11:00 A. M. It was observed that new materials including riding toys, dramatic play and building materials have been added to the playgrounds. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of chicken noodle soup with carrots, crackers, applesauce and milk was served. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children in Space #2 were observed washing hands after lunch. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the summary of NC Child Care Law was not observed in one of the two children's files today. GS 110-102 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed together in Space #1. It was reported that the facility opens at 6:30am. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans were not current in Spaces #2 and 4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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 #2, materials were not available to support an art activity area or a blocks activity area. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. One of the wooden see saws on the playground used by preschool children was observed split in the middle. .0601(c) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Annual health questionnaires were not on file for two staff members. .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three staff members did not complete all required health and safety training topics within the first year of employment. .1102(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not observed in either of the two children's files reviewed today. .0608(b)(1-6) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by February 6, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited As you selected to operate under voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, these ratios must be followed at all times. In addition, children of certain age groups may only be combined during the first and last hour of the day, provided that you can maintain ratios. Today I reminded you that children between 12 and 24 months of age may only be grouped with children three years of age and older during the first and last hours of the day. If the facility opens at 6:30 A.M., Space #2 should be opened at 7:30 A.M. so children one year of age may be cared for separately from children three years of age and older. Staff members must also ensure they do not leave the room for any reason if it would cause another staff member to be out of ratio. There were enough staff members present this morning to open Space #2 and to maintain ratios; you stated you were not sure why the children were still combined at 8:40 A.M. or why one of the staff members left Space #1 when there were nine children, but you would talk to staff members about what happened. I strongly urge you to ensure all staff members know the rules about ratios and combining age groups so they can comply when you are not here. I also urge you to put someone in charge of ensuring staff members and children are in the correct rooms at the right times to maintain compliance with these rules when you are not here. Technical assistance was provided during visits July 13, 2023 and July 20, 2023 regarding requirements for activity areas and materials in Spaces #2 and 4. As discussed, minimum requirements for preschool children in G.S. 110-91(12) include that four of the five activity areas are offered daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. When a program has earned two or more points in Program Standards, all five of the activity areas listed shall be available each day and music, sand/water and science shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. Today I suggested you add sets of cardboard blocks to Spaces #2 and 4 as well as a set of foam blocks to Space #2. You also need to ensure sufficient art materials such as drawing utensils with paper, playdough with cookie cutters, paint with paper and collage materials with glue are accessible daily in Spaces #2 and 4. Activity plans for each space must be posted and current as well. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding recordkeeping. As discussed, items such as staff health questionnaires and emergency information must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Regarding children’s files, I urged you to conduct a complete audit using the Child File Checklist as reviewed today. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Technical assistance was provided today regarding completion of Health and Safety training topics, most of which are now available for FREE on DCDEE's training platform called Moodle. All topics must be completed within the first year of employment. As discussed, Sydni Elliott and Teresa Brown must each complete the Medication in Child Care topic, and Latarsia Pearsey must complete all required topics. Please see instructions for Moodle access below: 1. Visit https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ 2. Log-in with your NCID and password. The log-in is in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. After log-in, scroll to the bottom of the page. In the ‘Search courses’ box, you should type in the short name “Year 2024 CCDF” and then click go. You should not register for prior year courses as they are no longer available. 4. After completing the course search, you should be able to enroll in the courses. 5. Once registered, you will then need to use the “ADDITIONAL DIRECTIONS” for step-by-step instructions. Medication in Child Care is a separate module which must be located using the same search directions as above, but search “medication” instead. Remember to use the Record of Health and Safety training, found under Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website, to track completion of trainings. Regarding the broken see saw, you stated it was just reported to you yesterday and you had told staff members to make it inaccessible. You blocked it off today and stated you would request a repair from maintenance staff. Moving forward, I urge you to ensure staff members know to immediately make broken equipment inaccessible until repairs can be made to prevent potential injury to children. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding activity plans for preschool children. As discussed, activity plans are detailed plans which outline activities that will encourage children’s growth and development. The activities outlined on the activity plan will typically occur during the “Activity Center” times indicated on the daily schedule. Activities should be intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development: (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. “Free choice” should rarely be written on an activity plan as it is always an option for children. Creating a developmentally appropriate activity plan will depend on many things, most importantly, the age of the children. Questions staff members may ask themselves include, “Who is the target age group and what are the developmental milestones for this age group? Are the majority of children the same age and / or do they have the same skill level for the activities I have planned? What concept, skill, or knowledge do I hope to introduce to the children? When thinking of the developmental levels of these children, are the activities I have planned challenging but not overwhelming for this group of children? How can I change my classroom environment to emphasize the theme and promote learning? What props or supporting materials will I need?" Today I encouraged you to seek out activity planning training from Region 4 CCR&R staff for assistance. As discussed today, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. A curriculum is what you want children to learn and what you plan to teach. Curriculum should be based on what is known about child development and learning for any given age range. Your curriculum guides you in determining achievable goals; what knowledge, skills, and dispositions (attitudes) you want children to learn and develop. It is recommended that good curriculum be a written document that is used in planning experiences for children. Please let me know if you need assistance in selecting your new curriculum. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed during the Routine Unannounced visit July 13, 2023, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you again to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and L. Pearsey have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. In addition, a violation may be cited if all lead teachers do not have at least the NCECC. I strongly recommend that any staff members without the NCECC try the Equivalency exam on Moodle. This may be a good option for those who are not able to enroll in coursework. Today we also discussed your Quality Point, as the ones printed on your license during your last reassessment no longer apply. It was verified that you are still eligible for the other Quality Point you chose, however, using the Education option of “Administrator has at least 10 years of documented experience.” Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Save the date for a Zoom Provider Meeting! The meeting for center owners and directors will be held February 7, 2024 at 10am. Please refer to the email invitation with Zoom link sent January 12, 2024 for instructions on how to join. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 8, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 83%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, nine of the ten children present were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. Children ranged in age from one through four. A second staff member entered Space #1 shortly after my arrival. The tenth child present was observed in Space #4 with a speech therapist; her qualification letter was on file as required. Before 9:00 A.M., one staff member took children five children two through four years of age to Space #2 for breakfast, leaving the other staff member with four children one and two years of age in Space #1. Breakfast served consisted of waffles, scrambled eggs, bananas and milk. Next, children in both spaces were observed in free choice activities including playing with musical instruments and fine motor toys. Children from Space #2 went to one of the fenced in playgrounds at 11:00 A. M. It was observed that new materials including riding toys, dramatic play and building materials have been added to the playgrounds. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of chicken noodle soup with carrots, crackers, applesauce and milk was served. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children in Space #2 were observed washing hands after lunch. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the summary of NC Child Care Law was not observed in one of the two children's files today. GS 110-102 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed together in Space #1. It was reported that the facility opens at 6:30am. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans were not current in Spaces #2 and 4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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 #2, materials were not available to support an art activity area or a blocks activity area. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. One of the wooden see saws on the playground used by preschool children was observed split in the middle. .0601(c) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Annual health questionnaires were not on file for two staff members. .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three staff members did not complete all required health and safety training topics within the first year of employment. .1102(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not observed in either of the two children's files reviewed today. .0608(b)(1-6) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by February 6, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited As you selected to operate under voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, these ratios must be followed at all times. In addition, children of certain age groups may only be combined during the first and last hour of the day, provided that you can maintain ratios. Today I reminded you that children between 12 and 24 months of age may only be grouped with children three years of age and older during the first and last hours of the day. If the facility opens at 6:30 A.M., Space #2 should be opened at 7:30 A.M. so children one year of age may be cared for separately from children three years of age and older. Staff members must also ensure they do not leave the room for any reason if it would cause another staff member to be out of ratio. There were enough staff members present this morning to open Space #2 and to maintain ratios; you stated you were not sure why the children were still combined at 8:40 A.M. or why one of the staff members left Space #1 when there were nine children, but you would talk to staff members about what happened. I strongly urge you to ensure all staff members know the rules about ratios and combining age groups so they can comply when you are not here. I also urge you to put someone in charge of ensuring staff members and children are in the correct rooms at the right times to maintain compliance with these rules when you are not here. Technical assistance was provided during visits July 13, 2023 and July 20, 2023 regarding requirements for activity areas and materials in Spaces #2 and 4. As discussed, minimum requirements for preschool children in G.S. 110-91(12) include that four of the five activity areas are offered daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. When a program has earned two or more points in Program Standards, all five of the activity areas listed shall be available each day and music, sand/water and science shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. Today I suggested you add sets of cardboard blocks to Spaces #2 and 4 as well as a set of foam blocks to Space #2. You also need to ensure sufficient art materials such as drawing utensils with paper, playdough with cookie cutters, paint with paper and collage materials with glue are accessible daily in Spaces #2 and 4. Activity plans for each space must be posted and current as well. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding recordkeeping. As discussed, items such as staff health questionnaires and emergency information must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Regarding children’s files, I urged you to conduct a complete audit using the Child File Checklist as reviewed today. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Technical assistance was provided today regarding completion of Health and Safety training topics, most of which are now available for FREE on DCDEE's training platform called Moodle. All topics must be completed within the first year of employment. As discussed, Sydni Elliott and Teresa Brown must each complete the Medication in Child Care topic, and Latarsia Pearsey must complete all required topics. Please see instructions for Moodle access below: 1. Visit https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ 2. Log-in with your NCID and password. The log-in is in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. After log-in, scroll to the bottom of the page. In the ‘Search courses’ box, you should type in the short name “Year 2024 CCDF” and then click go. You should not register for prior year courses as they are no longer available. 4. After completing the course search, you should be able to enroll in the courses. 5. Once registered, you will then need to use the “ADDITIONAL DIRECTIONS” for step-by-step instructions. Medication in Child Care is a separate module which must be located using the same search directions as above, but search “medication” instead. Remember to use the Record of Health and Safety training, found under Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website, to track completion of trainings. Regarding the broken see saw, you stated it was just reported to you yesterday and you had told staff members to make it inaccessible. You blocked it off today and stated you would request a repair from maintenance staff. Moving forward, I urge you to ensure staff members know to immediately make broken equipment inaccessible until repairs can be made to prevent potential injury to children. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding activity plans for preschool children. As discussed, activity plans are detailed plans which outline activities that will encourage children’s growth and development. The activities outlined on the activity plan will typically occur during the “Activity Center” times indicated on the daily schedule. Activities should be intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development: (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. “Free choice” should rarely be written on an activity plan as it is always an option for children. Creating a developmentally appropriate activity plan will depend on many things, most importantly, the age of the children. Questions staff members may ask themselves include, “Who is the target age group and what are the developmental milestones for this age group? Are the majority of children the same age and / or do they have the same skill level for the activities I have planned? What concept, skill, or knowledge do I hope to introduce to the children? When thinking of the developmental levels of these children, are the activities I have planned challenging but not overwhelming for this group of children? How can I change my classroom environment to emphasize the theme and promote learning? What props or supporting materials will I need?" Today I encouraged you to seek out activity planning training from Region 4 CCR&R staff for assistance. As discussed today, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. A curriculum is what you want children to learn and what you plan to teach. Curriculum should be based on what is known about child development and learning for any given age range. Your curriculum guides you in determining achievable goals; what knowledge, skills, and dispositions (attitudes) you want children to learn and develop. It is recommended that good curriculum be a written document that is used in planning experiences for children. Please let me know if you need assistance in selecting your new curriculum. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed during the Routine Unannounced visit July 13, 2023, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you again to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and L. Pearsey have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. In addition, a violation may be cited if all lead teachers do not have at least the NCECC. I strongly recommend that any staff members without the NCECC try the Equivalency exam on Moodle. This may be a good option for those who are not able to enroll in coursework. Today we also discussed your Quality Point, as the ones printed on your license during your last reassessment no longer apply. It was verified that you are still eligible for the other Quality Point you chose, however, using the Education option of “Administrator has at least 10 years of documented experience.” Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Save the date for a Zoom Provider Meeting! The meeting for center owners and directors will be held February 7, 2024 at 10am. Please refer to the email invitation with Zoom link sent January 12, 2024 for instructions on how to join. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 8, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 83%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, nine of the ten children present were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. Children ranged in age from one through four. A second staff member entered Space #1 shortly after my arrival. The tenth child present was observed in Space #4 with a speech therapist; her qualification letter was on file as required. Before 9:00 A.M., one staff member took children five children two through four years of age to Space #2 for breakfast, leaving the other staff member with four children one and two years of age in Space #1. Breakfast served consisted of waffles, scrambled eggs, bananas and milk. Next, children in both spaces were observed in free choice activities including playing with musical instruments and fine motor toys. Children from Space #2 went to one of the fenced in playgrounds at 11:00 A. M. It was observed that new materials including riding toys, dramatic play and building materials have been added to the playgrounds. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of chicken noodle soup with carrots, crackers, applesauce and milk was served. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children in Space #2 were observed washing hands after lunch. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the summary of NC Child Care Law was not observed in one of the two children's files today. GS 110-102 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed together in Space #1. It was reported that the facility opens at 6:30am. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans were not current in Spaces #2 and 4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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 #2, materials were not available to support an art activity area or a blocks activity area. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. One of the wooden see saws on the playground used by preschool children was observed split in the middle. .0601(c) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Annual health questionnaires were not on file for two staff members. .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three staff members did not complete all required health and safety training topics within the first year of employment. .1102(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not observed in either of the two children's files reviewed today. .0608(b)(1-6) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by February 6, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited As you selected to operate under voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, these ratios must be followed at all times. In addition, children of certain age groups may only be combined during the first and last hour of the day, provided that you can maintain ratios. Today I reminded you that children between 12 and 24 months of age may only be grouped with children three years of age and older during the first and last hours of the day. If the facility opens at 6:30 A.M., Space #2 should be opened at 7:30 A.M. so children one year of age may be cared for separately from children three years of age and older. Staff members must also ensure they do not leave the room for any reason if it would cause another staff member to be out of ratio. There were enough staff members present this morning to open Space #2 and to maintain ratios; you stated you were not sure why the children were still combined at 8:40 A.M. or why one of the staff members left Space #1 when there were nine children, but you would talk to staff members about what happened. I strongly urge you to ensure all staff members know the rules about ratios and combining age groups so they can comply when you are not here. I also urge you to put someone in charge of ensuring staff members and children are in the correct rooms at the right times to maintain compliance with these rules when you are not here. Technical assistance was provided during visits July 13, 2023 and July 20, 2023 regarding requirements for activity areas and materials in Spaces #2 and 4. As discussed, minimum requirements for preschool children in G.S. 110-91(12) include that four of the five activity areas are offered daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. When a program has earned two or more points in Program Standards, all five of the activity areas listed shall be available each day and music, sand/water and science shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. Today I suggested you add sets of cardboard blocks to Spaces #2 and 4 as well as a set of foam blocks to Space #2. You also need to ensure sufficient art materials such as drawing utensils with paper, playdough with cookie cutters, paint with paper and collage materials with glue are accessible daily in Spaces #2 and 4. Activity plans for each space must be posted and current as well. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding recordkeeping. As discussed, items such as staff health questionnaires and emergency information must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Regarding children’s files, I urged you to conduct a complete audit using the Child File Checklist as reviewed today. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Technical assistance was provided today regarding completion of Health and Safety training topics, most of which are now available for FREE on DCDEE's training platform called Moodle. All topics must be completed within the first year of employment. As discussed, Sydni Elliott and Teresa Brown must each complete the Medication in Child Care topic, and Latarsia Pearsey must complete all required topics. Please see instructions for Moodle access below: 1. Visit https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ 2. Log-in with your NCID and password. The log-in is in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. After log-in, scroll to the bottom of the page. In the ‘Search courses’ box, you should type in the short name “Year 2024 CCDF” and then click go. You should not register for prior year courses as they are no longer available. 4. After completing the course search, you should be able to enroll in the courses. 5. Once registered, you will then need to use the “ADDITIONAL DIRECTIONS” for step-by-step instructions. Medication in Child Care is a separate module which must be located using the same search directions as above, but search “medication” instead. Remember to use the Record of Health and Safety training, found under Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website, to track completion of trainings. Regarding the broken see saw, you stated it was just reported to you yesterday and you had told staff members to make it inaccessible. You blocked it off today and stated you would request a repair from maintenance staff. Moving forward, I urge you to ensure staff members know to immediately make broken equipment inaccessible until repairs can be made to prevent potential injury to children. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding activity plans for preschool children. As discussed, activity plans are detailed plans which outline activities that will encourage children’s growth and development. The activities outlined on the activity plan will typically occur during the “Activity Center” times indicated on the daily schedule. Activities should be intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development: (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. “Free choice” should rarely be written on an activity plan as it is always an option for children. Creating a developmentally appropriate activity plan will depend on many things, most importantly, the age of the children. Questions staff members may ask themselves include, “Who is the target age group and what are the developmental milestones for this age group? Are the majority of children the same age and / or do they have the same skill level for the activities I have planned? What concept, skill, or knowledge do I hope to introduce to the children? When thinking of the developmental levels of these children, are the activities I have planned challenging but not overwhelming for this group of children? How can I change my classroom environment to emphasize the theme and promote learning? What props or supporting materials will I need?" Today I encouraged you to seek out activity planning training from Region 4 CCR&R staff for assistance. As discussed today, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. A curriculum is what you want children to learn and what you plan to teach. Curriculum should be based on what is known about child development and learning for any given age range. Your curriculum guides you in determining achievable goals; what knowledge, skills, and dispositions (attitudes) you want children to learn and develop. It is recommended that good curriculum be a written document that is used in planning experiences for children. Please let me know if you need assistance in selecting your new curriculum. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed during the Routine Unannounced visit July 13, 2023, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you again to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and L. Pearsey have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. In addition, a violation may be cited if all lead teachers do not have at least the NCECC. I strongly recommend that any staff members without the NCECC try the Equivalency exam on Moodle. This may be a good option for those who are not able to enroll in coursework. Today we also discussed your Quality Point, as the ones printed on your license during your last reassessment no longer apply. It was verified that you are still eligible for the other Quality Point you chose, however, using the Education option of “Administrator has at least 10 years of documented experience.” Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Save the date for a Zoom Provider Meeting! The meeting for center owners and directors will be held February 7, 2024 at 10am. Please refer to the email invitation with Zoom link sent January 12, 2024 for instructions on how to join. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 8, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 83%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, nine of the ten children present were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. Children ranged in age from one through four. A second staff member entered Space #1 shortly after my arrival. The tenth child present was observed in Space #4 with a speech therapist; her qualification letter was on file as required. Before 9:00 A.M., one staff member took children five children two through four years of age to Space #2 for breakfast, leaving the other staff member with four children one and two years of age in Space #1. Breakfast served consisted of waffles, scrambled eggs, bananas and milk. Next, children in both spaces were observed in free choice activities including playing with musical instruments and fine motor toys. Children from Space #2 went to one of the fenced in playgrounds at 11:00 A. M. It was observed that new materials including riding toys, dramatic play and building materials have been added to the playgrounds. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of chicken noodle soup with carrots, crackers, applesauce and milk was served. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children in Space #2 were observed washing hands after lunch. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the summary of NC Child Care Law was not observed in one of the two children's files today. GS 110-102 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed together in Space #1. It was reported that the facility opens at 6:30am. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans were not current in Spaces #2 and 4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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 #2, materials were not available to support an art activity area or a blocks activity area. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. One of the wooden see saws on the playground used by preschool children was observed split in the middle. .0601(c) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Annual health questionnaires were not on file for two staff members. .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three staff members did not complete all required health and safety training topics within the first year of employment. .1102(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not observed in either of the two children's files reviewed today. .0608(b)(1-6) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by February 6, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited As you selected to operate under voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, these ratios must be followed at all times. In addition, children of certain age groups may only be combined during the first and last hour of the day, provided that you can maintain ratios. Today I reminded you that children between 12 and 24 months of age may only be grouped with children three years of age and older during the first and last hours of the day. If the facility opens at 6:30 A.M., Space #2 should be opened at 7:30 A.M. so children one year of age may be cared for separately from children three years of age and older. Staff members must also ensure they do not leave the room for any reason if it would cause another staff member to be out of ratio. There were enough staff members present this morning to open Space #2 and to maintain ratios; you stated you were not sure why the children were still combined at 8:40 A.M. or why one of the staff members left Space #1 when there were nine children, but you would talk to staff members about what happened. I strongly urge you to ensure all staff members know the rules about ratios and combining age groups so they can comply when you are not here. I also urge you to put someone in charge of ensuring staff members and children are in the correct rooms at the right times to maintain compliance with these rules when you are not here. Technical assistance was provided during visits July 13, 2023 and July 20, 2023 regarding requirements for activity areas and materials in Spaces #2 and 4. As discussed, minimum requirements for preschool children in G.S. 110-91(12) include that four of the five activity areas are offered daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. When a program has earned two or more points in Program Standards, all five of the activity areas listed shall be available each day and music, sand/water and science shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. Today I suggested you add sets of cardboard blocks to Spaces #2 and 4 as well as a set of foam blocks to Space #2. You also need to ensure sufficient art materials such as drawing utensils with paper, playdough with cookie cutters, paint with paper and collage materials with glue are accessible daily in Spaces #2 and 4. Activity plans for each space must be posted and current as well. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding recordkeeping. As discussed, items such as staff health questionnaires and emergency information must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Regarding children’s files, I urged you to conduct a complete audit using the Child File Checklist as reviewed today. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Technical assistance was provided today regarding completion of Health and Safety training topics, most of which are now available for FREE on DCDEE's training platform called Moodle. All topics must be completed within the first year of employment. As discussed, Sydni Elliott and Teresa Brown must each complete the Medication in Child Care topic, and Latarsia Pearsey must complete all required topics. Please see instructions for Moodle access below: 1. Visit https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ 2. Log-in with your NCID and password. The log-in is in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. After log-in, scroll to the bottom of the page. In the ‘Search courses’ box, you should type in the short name “Year 2024 CCDF” and then click go. You should not register for prior year courses as they are no longer available. 4. After completing the course search, you should be able to enroll in the courses. 5. Once registered, you will then need to use the “ADDITIONAL DIRECTIONS” for step-by-step instructions. Medication in Child Care is a separate module which must be located using the same search directions as above, but search “medication” instead. Remember to use the Record of Health and Safety training, found under Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website, to track completion of trainings. Regarding the broken see saw, you stated it was just reported to you yesterday and you had told staff members to make it inaccessible. You blocked it off today and stated you would request a repair from maintenance staff. Moving forward, I urge you to ensure staff members know to immediately make broken equipment inaccessible until repairs can be made to prevent potential injury to children. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding activity plans for preschool children. As discussed, activity plans are detailed plans which outline activities that will encourage children’s growth and development. The activities outlined on the activity plan will typically occur during the “Activity Center” times indicated on the daily schedule. Activities should be intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development: (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. “Free choice” should rarely be written on an activity plan as it is always an option for children. Creating a developmentally appropriate activity plan will depend on many things, most importantly, the age of the children. Questions staff members may ask themselves include, “Who is the target age group and what are the developmental milestones for this age group? Are the majority of children the same age and / or do they have the same skill level for the activities I have planned? What concept, skill, or knowledge do I hope to introduce to the children? When thinking of the developmental levels of these children, are the activities I have planned challenging but not overwhelming for this group of children? How can I change my classroom environment to emphasize the theme and promote learning? What props or supporting materials will I need?" Today I encouraged you to seek out activity planning training from Region 4 CCR&R staff for assistance. As discussed today, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. A curriculum is what you want children to learn and what you plan to teach. Curriculum should be based on what is known about child development and learning for any given age range. Your curriculum guides you in determining achievable goals; what knowledge, skills, and dispositions (attitudes) you want children to learn and develop. It is recommended that good curriculum be a written document that is used in planning experiences for children. Please let me know if you need assistance in selecting your new curriculum. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed during the Routine Unannounced visit July 13, 2023, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you again to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and L. Pearsey have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. In addition, a violation may be cited if all lead teachers do not have at least the NCECC. I strongly recommend that any staff members without the NCECC try the Equivalency exam on Moodle. This may be a good option for those who are not able to enroll in coursework. Today we also discussed your Quality Point, as the ones printed on your license during your last reassessment no longer apply. It was verified that you are still eligible for the other Quality Point you chose, however, using the Education option of “Administrator has at least 10 years of documented experience.” Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Save the date for a Zoom Provider Meeting! The meeting for center owners and directors will be held February 7, 2024 at 10am. Please refer to the email invitation with Zoom link sent January 12, 2024 for instructions on how to join. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 12 Completed Date: 1/23/2024 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 08:35 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age, and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office January 8, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted July 24, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 83%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, nine of the ten children present were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. Children ranged in age from one through four. A second staff member entered Space #1 shortly after my arrival. The tenth child present was observed in Space #4 with a speech therapist; her qualification letter was on file as required. Before 9:00 A.M., one staff member took children five children two through four years of age to Space #2 for breakfast, leaving the other staff member with four children one and two years of age in Space #1. Breakfast served consisted of waffles, scrambled eggs, bananas and milk. Next, children in both spaces were observed in free choice activities including playing with musical instruments and fine motor toys. Children from Space #2 went to one of the fenced in playgrounds at 11:00 A. M. It was observed that new materials including riding toys, dramatic play and building materials have been added to the playgrounds. At 11:30 A.M., a lunch of chicken noodle soup with carrots, crackers, applesauce and milk was served. After lunch, children in Space #1 were observed sleeping in cribs, and children in Space #2 were observed washing hands after lunch. Health and Safety training requirements as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the summary of NC Child Care Law was not observed in one of the two children's files today. GS 110-102 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed together in Space #1. It was reported that the facility opens at 6:30am. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans were not current in Spaces #2 and 4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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 #2, materials were not available to support an art activity area or a blocks activity area. GS 110-91(12); .0510(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. One of the wooden see saws on the playground used by preschool children was observed split in the middle. .0601(c) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Annual health questionnaires were not on file for two staff members. .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. At 8:40am, nine children one through four years of age were observed in Space #1 with one staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Three staff members did not complete all required health and safety training topics within the first year of employment. .1102(a) 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. A signed acknowledgement of receipt of the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not observed in either of the two children's files reviewed today. .0608(b)(1-6) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by February 6, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited As you selected to operate under voluntary enhanced staff-child ratios, these ratios must be followed at all times. In addition, children of certain age groups may only be combined during the first and last hour of the day, provided that you can maintain ratios. Today I reminded you that children between 12 and 24 months of age may only be grouped with children three years of age and older during the first and last hours of the day. If the facility opens at 6:30 A.M., Space #2 should be opened at 7:30 A.M. so children one year of age may be cared for separately from children three years of age and older. Staff members must also ensure they do not leave the room for any reason if it would cause another staff member to be out of ratio. There were enough staff members present this morning to open Space #2 and to maintain ratios; you stated you were not sure why the children were still combined at 8:40 A.M. or why one of the staff members left Space #1 when there were nine children, but you would talk to staff members about what happened. I strongly urge you to ensure all staff members know the rules about ratios and combining age groups so they can comply when you are not here. I also urge you to put someone in charge of ensuring staff members and children are in the correct rooms at the right times to maintain compliance with these rules when you are not here. Technical assistance was provided during visits July 13, 2023 and July 20, 2023 regarding requirements for activity areas and materials in Spaces #2 and 4. As discussed, minimum requirements for preschool children in G.S. 110-91(12) include that four of the five activity areas are offered daily: art and other creative play, children's books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living and dramatic play. When a program has earned two or more points in Program Standards, all five of the activity areas listed shall be available each day and music, sand/water and science shall be offered for each group of children at least once per week. Today I suggested you add sets of cardboard blocks to Spaces #2 and 4 as well as a set of foam blocks to Space #2. You also need to ensure sufficient art materials such as drawing utensils with paper, playdough with cookie cutters, paint with paper and collage materials with glue are accessible daily in Spaces #2 and 4. Activity plans for each space must be posted and current as well. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding recordkeeping. As discussed, items such as staff health questionnaires and emergency information must be updated annually. I suggest you select a certain month each year to complete these and set a reminder on your calendar so records will always be current. Please also update your Staff and Training Worksheet based on revisions made today and ensure you keep it updated as needed. This document should serve as a tracking tool for required paperwork and deadlines. Regarding children’s files, I urged you to conduct a complete audit using the Child File Checklist as reviewed today. You may wish to delegate some recordkeeping responsibilities to another staff member who has good organizational skills and is able to assist. This will allow you to trust that accurate records are being kept while you focus on other aspects of managing your facility. Technical assistance was provided today regarding completion of Health and Safety training topics, most of which are now available for FREE on DCDEE's training platform called Moodle. All topics must be completed within the first year of employment. As discussed, Sydni Elliott and Teresa Brown must each complete the Medication in Child Care topic, and Latarsia Pearsey must complete all required topics. Please see instructions for Moodle access below: 1. Visit https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/ 2. Log-in with your NCID and password. The log-in is in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. After log-in, scroll to the bottom of the page. In the ‘Search courses’ box, you should type in the short name “Year 2024 CCDF” and then click go. You should not register for prior year courses as they are no longer available. 4. After completing the course search, you should be able to enroll in the courses. 5. Once registered, you will then need to use the “ADDITIONAL DIRECTIONS” for step-by-step instructions. Medication in Child Care is a separate module which must be located using the same search directions as above, but search “medication” instead. Remember to use the Record of Health and Safety training, found under Provider Documents and Forms on the DCDEE website, to track completion of trainings. Regarding the broken see saw, you stated it was just reported to you yesterday and you had told staff members to make it inaccessible. You blocked it off today and stated you would request a repair from maintenance staff. Moving forward, I urge you to ensure staff members know to immediately make broken equipment inaccessible until repairs can be made to prevent potential injury to children. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding activity plans for preschool children. As discussed, activity plans are detailed plans which outline activities that will encourage children’s growth and development. The activities outlined on the activity plan will typically occur during the “Activity Center” times indicated on the daily schedule. Activities should be intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development: (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. “Free choice” should rarely be written on an activity plan as it is always an option for children. Creating a developmentally appropriate activity plan will depend on many things, most importantly, the age of the children. Questions staff members may ask themselves include, “Who is the target age group and what are the developmental milestones for this age group? Are the majority of children the same age and / or do they have the same skill level for the activities I have planned? What concept, skill, or knowledge do I hope to introduce to the children? When thinking of the developmental levels of these children, are the activities I have planned challenging but not overwhelming for this group of children? How can I change my classroom environment to emphasize the theme and promote learning? What props or supporting materials will I need?" Today I encouraged you to seek out activity planning training from Region 4 CCR&R staff for assistance. As discussed today, Child Care Rules require all Four and Five Star licensed programs to implement an approved curriculum which is evidence-based, comprehensive and has a reading component with children four years of age. A list of approved curricula may be found at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/NC-Pre-K-Program/Approved-Curricula. A curriculum is what you want children to learn and what you plan to teach. Curriculum should be based on what is known about child development and learning for any given age range. Your curriculum guides you in determining achievable goals; what knowledge, skills, and dispositions (attitudes) you want children to learn and develop. It is recommended that good curriculum be a written document that is used in planning experiences for children. Please let me know if you need assistance in selecting your new curriculum. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed during the Routine Unannounced visit July 13, 2023, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you again to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and L. Pearsey have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. In addition, a violation may be cited if all lead teachers do not have at least the NCECC. I strongly recommend that any staff members without the NCECC try the Equivalency exam on Moodle. This may be a good option for those who are not able to enroll in coursework. Today we also discussed your Quality Point, as the ones printed on your license during your last reassessment no longer apply. It was verified that you are still eligible for the other Quality Point you chose, however, using the Education option of “Administrator has at least 10 years of documented experience.” Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited, a follow-up visit may be conducted in the near future to verify compliance. Save the date for a Zoom Provider Meeting! The meeting for center owners and directors will be held February 7, 2024 at 10am. Please refer to the email invitation with Zoom link sent January 12, 2024 for instructions on how to join. You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by July 24, 2024. Remember to submit a copy within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/13/2023 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 7/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office July 11, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted June 2, 2022; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation during most of the visit today. Office assistant, T. Brown, was available at the end of the visit after Ms. Bryant had left the center. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, the door was locked and a staff member left her classroom to let me into the center. In Space #1, one infant and one child one year of age were observed sleeping in cribs; safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored. The third child, one year of age, was engaged in free play activities. Children two through four years of age enrolled in Spaces #2 and 4 were observed together in Space #2, participating in free choice activities including pretending to drive a race car, making toast in the dramatic play kitchen and pretending to wash dishes. Next, the children enrolled in Space #4 transitioned to their own classroom and engaged in an art activity. School age children in Space #6 participated in a discussion about social skills prior to transitioning to small group math activities. Children from Spaces #2 and 4 were later observed on a fenced in playground, riding tricycles and using see saws. Lunch served consisted of beef ravioli in tomato sauce, green beans, peaches, crackers and milk. After lunch, children one through four engaged in rest time routines. Children one year of age slept in cribs in Space #1, while children two through four years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens in Space #7. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. School age children participated in drawing and journaling activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the last Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: 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 has not been conducted since June 2, 2022, more than 12 months ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. At 9:45am, the staff member assigned to Space #1 left one infant and two children one year of age alone in Space #1 when she came to unlock the facility door to let me in. .1801(a)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fourth wooden step leading up to the platform with the yellow slide on the playground used by preschool children was split, causing it to cave in and leaving a rusted nail exposed. In addition, the wood bases on either side of the handrails of the steps were splintered. (repeated) .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two fire ant hills were observed on the playground used by preschool children and a wasp nest was observed on the playground used by infants and children one year of age. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. A bottle and a stuffed animal were observed in the crib with a sleeping infant. The center's safe sleep policy states they do not allow any objects other than pacifiers in the sleeping space. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 27, 2022. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require that all children shall be adequately supervised. Adequate supervision means staff shall be aware of children’s activities and able to render immediate assistance at all times. Staff may never leave children unattended, even if just for a few minutes, unless a true emergency necessitates it. As discussed, supervision is paramount to quality child care as it is basic to the safety of children and the prevention of injury. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. As discussed with staff, the violation could have easily been avoided by asking the staff member who was in the kitchen to answer the door or letting the staff member assigned to Space #2 bring her children with her to answer the door. I also suggested that you keep the door unlocked when extra staff members are not available to answer the door for parents and visitors. As discussed, unstable equipment, exposed rusty nails, fire ant hills and wasp or hornet nests may cause injuries to children. Staff should be monitoring the playground for hazards daily and alerting you to any items in need of repair or removal. Today I advised staff to make the slide inaccessible until permanent repairs can be made. You also stated you would contact someone for pest control. Remember to send pictures with your compliance letter to verify hazards have been removed or repaired. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding the fire inspection. Child Care Rules require that you request your fire inspection to ensure it occurs within twelve months of the previous inspection, so I suggested you note the date on your calendar and set a reminder for yourself to start requesting your inspection at least two months in advance. Today you left a message for the fire marshal’s office; please let me know if you need assistance requesting your inspection. Remember to send a copy with your compliance letter. For the safety of the children, your safe sleep policy must be followed for all children under twelve months of age. I strongly urge you to review the entire policy with all staff who work in Space #1 to ensure understanding of requirements. I also urge you to conduct “spot checks” to verify that the policy is being followed at all times. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding room arrangement and materials in Spaces #1, 2 and 4. In Space #1, I assisted the lead teacher with creating separate spaces for blocks and dramatic play, as well as a new cozy reading area. I suggested removing a crib to create extra space and adding more carpets or soft mats to play areas. In Spaces #2 and 4, I offered suggestions for how to create separate areas for manipulatives and how to move cozy areas so they are more protected from active areas. I also suggested adding new sets of blocks, such as the hollow cardboard blocks, to all three spaces, as Duplos are considered manipulatives. In addition, I suggested adding more softness to cozy areas using throw pillows, body pillows or pet beds. As a new Group Leader is working full time for the summer, I reviewed requirements for activity plans with her today, including that current activity plans must be posted and that four different activity options must be offered since the children are at the center for more than four hours per day. We discussed involving the children in activity planning and how to document that on the activity plan. I also provided technical assistance regarding screen time. As discussed, when screen time is offered on any visual device, it must be used to stimulate a developmental domain in accordance with the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development (NCFELD), limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week per child, and documented on a cumulative log or activity plan available for review by the Division. You may use the sample screen time log from the DCDEE website to document usage moving forward. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you today to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and B. Ward have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited today, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future. In addition, if the compliance history falls below 75%, Administrative Action may be recommended. As discussed, L. Pearsey must now obtain a medical report since she is no longer working in a substitute position. Please send a copy to verify compliance. I also suggest T. Brown obtain ITS-SIDS certification so she may assist you in Space #1 as needed. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/13/2023 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 7/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office July 11, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted June 2, 2022; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation during most of the visit today. Office assistant, T. Brown, was available at the end of the visit after Ms. Bryant had left the center. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, the door was locked and a staff member left her classroom to let me into the center. In Space #1, one infant and one child one year of age were observed sleeping in cribs; safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored. The third child, one year of age, was engaged in free play activities. Children two through four years of age enrolled in Spaces #2 and 4 were observed together in Space #2, participating in free choice activities including pretending to drive a race car, making toast in the dramatic play kitchen and pretending to wash dishes. Next, the children enrolled in Space #4 transitioned to their own classroom and engaged in an art activity. School age children in Space #6 participated in a discussion about social skills prior to transitioning to small group math activities. Children from Spaces #2 and 4 were later observed on a fenced in playground, riding tricycles and using see saws. Lunch served consisted of beef ravioli in tomato sauce, green beans, peaches, crackers and milk. After lunch, children one through four engaged in rest time routines. Children one year of age slept in cribs in Space #1, while children two through four years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens in Space #7. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. School age children participated in drawing and journaling activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the last Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: 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 has not been conducted since June 2, 2022, more than 12 months ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. At 9:45am, the staff member assigned to Space #1 left one infant and two children one year of age alone in Space #1 when she came to unlock the facility door to let me in. .1801(a)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fourth wooden step leading up to the platform with the yellow slide on the playground used by preschool children was split, causing it to cave in and leaving a rusted nail exposed. In addition, the wood bases on either side of the handrails of the steps were splintered. (repeated) .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two fire ant hills were observed on the playground used by preschool children and a wasp nest was observed on the playground used by infants and children one year of age. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. A bottle and a stuffed animal were observed in the crib with a sleeping infant. The center's safe sleep policy states they do not allow any objects other than pacifiers in the sleeping space. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 27, 2022. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require that all children shall be adequately supervised. Adequate supervision means staff shall be aware of children’s activities and able to render immediate assistance at all times. Staff may never leave children unattended, even if just for a few minutes, unless a true emergency necessitates it. As discussed, supervision is paramount to quality child care as it is basic to the safety of children and the prevention of injury. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. As discussed with staff, the violation could have easily been avoided by asking the staff member who was in the kitchen to answer the door or letting the staff member assigned to Space #2 bring her children with her to answer the door. I also suggested that you keep the door unlocked when extra staff members are not available to answer the door for parents and visitors. As discussed, unstable equipment, exposed rusty nails, fire ant hills and wasp or hornet nests may cause injuries to children. Staff should be monitoring the playground for hazards daily and alerting you to any items in need of repair or removal. Today I advised staff to make the slide inaccessible until permanent repairs can be made. You also stated you would contact someone for pest control. Remember to send pictures with your compliance letter to verify hazards have been removed or repaired. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding the fire inspection. Child Care Rules require that you request your fire inspection to ensure it occurs within twelve months of the previous inspection, so I suggested you note the date on your calendar and set a reminder for yourself to start requesting your inspection at least two months in advance. Today you left a message for the fire marshal’s office; please let me know if you need assistance requesting your inspection. Remember to send a copy with your compliance letter. For the safety of the children, your safe sleep policy must be followed for all children under twelve months of age. I strongly urge you to review the entire policy with all staff who work in Space #1 to ensure understanding of requirements. I also urge you to conduct “spot checks” to verify that the policy is being followed at all times. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding room arrangement and materials in Spaces #1, 2 and 4. In Space #1, I assisted the lead teacher with creating separate spaces for blocks and dramatic play, as well as a new cozy reading area. I suggested removing a crib to create extra space and adding more carpets or soft mats to play areas. In Spaces #2 and 4, I offered suggestions for how to create separate areas for manipulatives and how to move cozy areas so they are more protected from active areas. I also suggested adding new sets of blocks, such as the hollow cardboard blocks, to all three spaces, as Duplos are considered manipulatives. In addition, I suggested adding more softness to cozy areas using throw pillows, body pillows or pet beds. As a new Group Leader is working full time for the summer, I reviewed requirements for activity plans with her today, including that current activity plans must be posted and that four different activity options must be offered since the children are at the center for more than four hours per day. We discussed involving the children in activity planning and how to document that on the activity plan. I also provided technical assistance regarding screen time. As discussed, when screen time is offered on any visual device, it must be used to stimulate a developmental domain in accordance with the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development (NCFELD), limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week per child, and documented on a cumulative log or activity plan available for review by the Division. You may use the sample screen time log from the DCDEE website to document usage moving forward. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you today to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and B. Ward have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited today, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future. In addition, if the compliance history falls below 75%, Administrative Action may be recommended. As discussed, L. Pearsey must now obtain a medical report since she is no longer working in a substitute position. Please send a copy to verify compliance. I also suggest T. Brown obtain ITS-SIDS certification so she may assist you in Space #1 as needed. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/13/2023 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 7/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office July 11, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted June 2, 2022; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation during most of the visit today. Office assistant, T. Brown, was available at the end of the visit after Ms. Bryant had left the center. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, the door was locked and a staff member left her classroom to let me into the center. In Space #1, one infant and one child one year of age were observed sleeping in cribs; safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored. The third child, one year of age, was engaged in free play activities. Children two through four years of age enrolled in Spaces #2 and 4 were observed together in Space #2, participating in free choice activities including pretending to drive a race car, making toast in the dramatic play kitchen and pretending to wash dishes. Next, the children enrolled in Space #4 transitioned to their own classroom and engaged in an art activity. School age children in Space #6 participated in a discussion about social skills prior to transitioning to small group math activities. Children from Spaces #2 and 4 were later observed on a fenced in playground, riding tricycles and using see saws. Lunch served consisted of beef ravioli in tomato sauce, green beans, peaches, crackers and milk. After lunch, children one through four engaged in rest time routines. Children one year of age slept in cribs in Space #1, while children two through four years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens in Space #7. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. School age children participated in drawing and journaling activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the last Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: 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 has not been conducted since June 2, 2022, more than 12 months ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. At 9:45am, the staff member assigned to Space #1 left one infant and two children one year of age alone in Space #1 when she came to unlock the facility door to let me in. .1801(a)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fourth wooden step leading up to the platform with the yellow slide on the playground used by preschool children was split, causing it to cave in and leaving a rusted nail exposed. In addition, the wood bases on either side of the handrails of the steps were splintered. (repeated) .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two fire ant hills were observed on the playground used by preschool children and a wasp nest was observed on the playground used by infants and children one year of age. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. A bottle and a stuffed animal were observed in the crib with a sleeping infant. The center's safe sleep policy states they do not allow any objects other than pacifiers in the sleeping space. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 27, 2022. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require that all children shall be adequately supervised. Adequate supervision means staff shall be aware of children’s activities and able to render immediate assistance at all times. Staff may never leave children unattended, even if just for a few minutes, unless a true emergency necessitates it. As discussed, supervision is paramount to quality child care as it is basic to the safety of children and the prevention of injury. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. As discussed with staff, the violation could have easily been avoided by asking the staff member who was in the kitchen to answer the door or letting the staff member assigned to Space #2 bring her children with her to answer the door. I also suggested that you keep the door unlocked when extra staff members are not available to answer the door for parents and visitors. As discussed, unstable equipment, exposed rusty nails, fire ant hills and wasp or hornet nests may cause injuries to children. Staff should be monitoring the playground for hazards daily and alerting you to any items in need of repair or removal. Today I advised staff to make the slide inaccessible until permanent repairs can be made. You also stated you would contact someone for pest control. Remember to send pictures with your compliance letter to verify hazards have been removed or repaired. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding the fire inspection. Child Care Rules require that you request your fire inspection to ensure it occurs within twelve months of the previous inspection, so I suggested you note the date on your calendar and set a reminder for yourself to start requesting your inspection at least two months in advance. Today you left a message for the fire marshal’s office; please let me know if you need assistance requesting your inspection. Remember to send a copy with your compliance letter. For the safety of the children, your safe sleep policy must be followed for all children under twelve months of age. I strongly urge you to review the entire policy with all staff who work in Space #1 to ensure understanding of requirements. I also urge you to conduct “spot checks” to verify that the policy is being followed at all times. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding room arrangement and materials in Spaces #1, 2 and 4. In Space #1, I assisted the lead teacher with creating separate spaces for blocks and dramatic play, as well as a new cozy reading area. I suggested removing a crib to create extra space and adding more carpets or soft mats to play areas. In Spaces #2 and 4, I offered suggestions for how to create separate areas for manipulatives and how to move cozy areas so they are more protected from active areas. I also suggested adding new sets of blocks, such as the hollow cardboard blocks, to all three spaces, as Duplos are considered manipulatives. In addition, I suggested adding more softness to cozy areas using throw pillows, body pillows or pet beds. As a new Group Leader is working full time for the summer, I reviewed requirements for activity plans with her today, including that current activity plans must be posted and that four different activity options must be offered since the children are at the center for more than four hours per day. We discussed involving the children in activity planning and how to document that on the activity plan. I also provided technical assistance regarding screen time. As discussed, when screen time is offered on any visual device, it must be used to stimulate a developmental domain in accordance with the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development (NCFELD), limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week per child, and documented on a cumulative log or activity plan available for review by the Division. You may use the sample screen time log from the DCDEE website to document usage moving forward. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you today to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and B. Ward have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited today, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future. In addition, if the compliance history falls below 75%, Administrative Action may be recommended. As discussed, L. Pearsey must now obtain a medical report since she is no longer working in a substitute position. Please send a copy to verify compliance. I also suggest T. Brown obtain ITS-SIDS certification so she may assist you in Space #1 as needed. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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: FARMER'S UNION DEVELOPMENTAL DAY CARE Facility ID: 24000077 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/13/2023 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 7/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Four Star license issued March 11, 2020, earning 7 points in Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 50 children and a second shift capacity of 33 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios. Restrictions were in compliance today. Farmer’s Union Developmental Day Care, Inc., the non-profit corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office July 11, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted February 2, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned July 11, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted June 2, 2022; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 81%. Administrator, G. Bryant, was present and available for consultation during most of the visit today. Office assistant, T. Brown, was available at the end of the visit after Ms. Bryant had left the center. Seven indoor spaces are approved for use by children; four spaces are currently being used as classrooms and one is a multi-purpose room used for indoor gross motor play and occasional large group activities. Upon arrival, the door was locked and a staff member left her classroom to let me into the center. In Space #1, one infant and one child one year of age were observed sleeping in cribs; safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored. The third child, one year of age, was engaged in free play activities. Children two through four years of age enrolled in Spaces #2 and 4 were observed together in Space #2, participating in free choice activities including pretending to drive a race car, making toast in the dramatic play kitchen and pretending to wash dishes. Next, the children enrolled in Space #4 transitioned to their own classroom and engaged in an art activity. School age children in Space #6 participated in a discussion about social skills prior to transitioning to small group math activities. Children from Spaces #2 and 4 were later observed on a fenced in playground, riding tricycles and using see saws. Lunch served consisted of beef ravioli in tomato sauce, green beans, peaches, crackers and milk. After lunch, children one through four engaged in rest time routines. Children one year of age slept in cribs in Space #1, while children two through four years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens in Space #7. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. School age children participated in drawing and journaling activities during this time. New staff members have not been hired since the last Annual Compliance visit. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: 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 has not been conducted since June 2, 2022, more than 12 months ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. At 9:45am, the staff member assigned to Space #1 left one infant and two children one year of age alone in Space #1 when she came to unlock the facility door to let me in. .1801(a)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The fourth wooden step leading up to the platform with the yellow slide on the playground used by preschool children was split, causing it to cave in and leaving a rusted nail exposed. In addition, the wood bases on either side of the handrails of the steps were splintered. (repeated) .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two fire ant hills were observed on the playground used by preschool children and a wasp nest was observed on the playground used by infants and children one year of age. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. A bottle and a stuffed animal were observed in the crib with a sleeping infant. The center's safe sleep policy states they do not allow any objects other than pacifiers in the sleeping space. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by July 27, 2022. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited Child Care Rules require that all children shall be adequately supervised. Adequate supervision means staff shall be aware of children’s activities and able to render immediate assistance at all times. Staff may never leave children unattended, even if just for a few minutes, unless a true emergency necessitates it. As discussed, supervision is paramount to quality child care as it is basic to the safety of children and the prevention of injury. Parents have a contract with the facility and its staff to supervise their children. As discussed with staff, the violation could have easily been avoided by asking the staff member who was in the kitchen to answer the door or letting the staff member assigned to Space #2 bring her children with her to answer the door. I also suggested that you keep the door unlocked when extra staff members are not available to answer the door for parents and visitors. As discussed, unstable equipment, exposed rusty nails, fire ant hills and wasp or hornet nests may cause injuries to children. Staff should be monitoring the playground for hazards daily and alerting you to any items in need of repair or removal. Today I advised staff to make the slide inaccessible until permanent repairs can be made. You also stated you would contact someone for pest control. Remember to send pictures with your compliance letter to verify hazards have been removed or repaired. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding the fire inspection. Child Care Rules require that you request your fire inspection to ensure it occurs within twelve months of the previous inspection, so I suggested you note the date on your calendar and set a reminder for yourself to start requesting your inspection at least two months in advance. Today you left a message for the fire marshal’s office; please let me know if you need assistance requesting your inspection. Remember to send a copy with your compliance letter. For the safety of the children, your safe sleep policy must be followed for all children under twelve months of age. I strongly urge you to review the entire policy with all staff who work in Space #1 to ensure understanding of requirements. I also urge you to conduct “spot checks” to verify that the policy is being followed at all times. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was provided today regarding room arrangement and materials in Spaces #1, 2 and 4. In Space #1, I assisted the lead teacher with creating separate spaces for blocks and dramatic play, as well as a new cozy reading area. I suggested removing a crib to create extra space and adding more carpets or soft mats to play areas. In Spaces #2 and 4, I offered suggestions for how to create separate areas for manipulatives and how to move cozy areas so they are more protected from active areas. I also suggested adding new sets of blocks, such as the hollow cardboard blocks, to all three spaces, as Duplos are considered manipulatives. In addition, I suggested adding more softness to cozy areas using throw pillows, body pillows or pet beds. As a new Group Leader is working full time for the summer, I reviewed requirements for activity plans with her today, including that current activity plans must be posted and that four different activity options must be offered since the children are at the center for more than four hours per day. We discussed involving the children in activity planning and how to document that on the activity plan. I also provided technical assistance regarding screen time. As discussed, when screen time is offered on any visual device, it must be used to stimulate a developmental domain in accordance with the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development (NCFELD), limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week per child, and documented on a cumulative log or activity plan available for review by the Division. You may use the sample screen time log from the DCDEE website to document usage moving forward. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in March 2023 but was not completed due to the extension of the “hold harmless” state until June 30, 2024. As discussed, your facility has been assigned to “Cohort 2,” with a planning/preparation year of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025 and a reassessment year of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. As your facility may need to have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, I encouraged you today to begin reviewing resources available at www.ncrlap.org and creating a plan of action for your reassessment. As you get closer to your planning year, you may also wish to contact the Columbus County Partnership for Children or Region 4 CCR&R staff to assist with your ERS preparation. Regarding Education standards, we reviewed requirements for seven points, including that all lead teachers must have the NCECC and that 50% of them must have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with two years of experience until June 30, 2026. For the teacher position, at least 50% of teachers must have the NCECC with 6 semester hours of ECE coursework and two years of experience. We also reviewed information from DCDEE WORKS, and I shared with you that staff members S. Elliott and B. Ward have still not completed WORKS registration. Keep in mind, Education points will be evaluated during the rated license reassessment process, so you must ensure you take requirements into consideration when hiring and placing staff, as well as ensure all staff members have current information in WORKS. Reminders Due to the nature of violations cited today, an unannounced follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future. In addition, if the compliance history falls below 75%, Administrative Action may be recommended. As discussed, L. Pearsey must now obtain a medical report since she is no longer working in a substitute position. Please send a copy to verify compliance. I also suggest T. Brown obtain ITS-SIDS certification so she may assist you in Space #1 as needed. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@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