Firststart Kids Academy

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: BRITTANY ADAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0725-436L Visit Date: 8/6/2025 Number Present: 48 Completed Date: 8/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 11:30 AM Time Out: 04:00 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. You, Caitlin Leepard, Owner, assisted me with the visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements regarding discipline related to children being handled roughly and staff not interacting with children in positive ways. I visited each classroom during today’s visit. Children were observed engaging in free choice and teacher directed activities, routine care taking, staff/child interaction, meal time and rest time. I spoke with you and asked if you had any concerns regarding discipline related to children being handled roughly and staff not interacting with children in positive ways. You stated that you were informed by a parent that a therapist that visited the facility had concerns about the way staff in the Two’s classroom were treating children. The therapist stated the following: *A teacher in the Two’s classroom tapped a child on the head with a shoe and then placed the shoe on the child’s foot. *Staff in the Two’s classroom talk about children in a negative way. *Staff in the Two’s classroom handle children roughly. You stated you conducted an investigation into the allegations listed above. You spoke with two of the Two’s classroom teachers, and a teacher from the Infant classroom. You stated that you could not confirm the allegations listed above based on information received during your investigation. I interviewed twelve additional staff members. One staff member stated they have concerns regarding discipline related to children being handled roughly. One staff member stated that during the week of July 28, 2025, a two year old child in the Two’s classroom was standing at the gate and speaking into the hallway. A classroom teacher then grabbed the child by the arm, said something to the child in their ear, then forcefully swung the child away from the gate and onto the carpet in the classroom. Although not related to the allegation, a discipline violation was cited today due to this incident. Five staff members stated they have concerns with staff not interacting with children in positive ways. These staff members stated that they have observed harsh tones and words being used with children throughout the facility. Two of the twelve staff members interviewed stated that on July 11, 2025, a two year old child was left unattended in the Two’s classroom while the class and classroom teachers were on the playground. When the staff opened the door in the Two’s classroom that leads to the playground, one staff member asked one of the Two’s teachers did they know there was a child left in the classroom. One of the Two’s classroom teachers responded by saying that they sent the child in the classroom alone to use the potty. I also confirmed with that Two’s classroom teacher that they did send a two year old child in the classroom to use the potty alone, but they could not remember the date of the incident. Although not related to the allegation, a supervision violation was cited today due to this incident. The following violation was cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On July 11, 2025 a two year old child was left unattended in the Two's classroom. .1801(a)(1-5) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. A teacher in the Two's classroom grabbed a child by their arm and forcefully swung the child away from the gate and on to the carpet in the classroom. .1803(a)(1) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: It is recommended that the administrator review proper discipline practices with all staff in the near future. It is recommended that the administrator review proper supervision practices with all staff in the near future. Consultation was provided on the following: We discussed the administrator continuing to complete a walk through of the facility daily to ensure staff are handling and speaking to children in a nurturing way and using a nurturing tone. It is highly recommended that administrators visit classrooms regularly throughout the week to provide observation and coaching opportunities. Please assist all classrooms with proper classroom management techniques. Please ensure children are given serving utensils with their food during meal time. Today I witnessed the children in the Older Toddler classroom eating a meal that required utensils but the children were not given utensils. I requested that one of the classroom teachers get utensils for the children and spoons were brought in for the children to eat with. Please ensure infants are not sitting in high chairs waiting for their meal for several minutes while other children are being fed. Today when I visited the Infant classroom one child was in a high chair with nothing in front of them while one child was being fed a bottle and another child was being fed table food. I suggested that the child be allowed to play until it was time to eat, or the child be given food on their tray for them to feed themselves. I spoke with you, Caitlin Leepard, Owner, about possibly extending your work day and/or being present at the facility more hours during the week while the facility is working on ensuring proper discipline practices are being demonstrated throughout the facility on a consistent basis. Today I was able to conduct a 25 min. classroom observation in the Two’s classroom, and provided consultation to teachers regarding supervision, appropriate discipline practices, and interacting with children in positive ways. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 20, 2025, I must receive a compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be conducted. You can send an email and in the body of the email you can simply include the following items: Facility Name: Facility ID #: Administrator's Name: Violation Item # (List each violation item # separately): How the violation was corrected or what you will do to prevent this violation from reoccurring (List each violation correction separately under the corresponding violation item #): Email the information to: brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov You may contact me by phone at (704) 594-0049 or by email at brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: BRITTANY ADAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2025 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 264 Time In: 10:06 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Amanda Holder, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 7, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 23, 2025. The last fire inspection was conducted January 31, 2025. Your facility is approved for first shift only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 88% prior to today’s visit. The center's four star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, monthly menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. A walkthrough of the indoor environment was completed. Children were observed engaged in free choice activities, teacher directed activities, caretaking routines, meal time, staff/child interaction, and rest time. Fire drills are being completed monthly as required. Emergency drills are being conducted every three months as required. Incident logs were monitored during today’s visit. Playground inspections are being conducted monthly. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility was of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. Medications, Permission to Administer forms, and medical action plans were monitored during today’s visit. All staff files were monitored for criminal background checks, First Aid/CPR, Recognizing and Responding, ITS/SIDS and BSAC during today’s visit. The following violations were documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 11/17/22 did not have a First Aid certificate on file and available for review. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 11/17/22 did not have a CPR certificate on file and available for review. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired on 1/1/21 did not have a Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment certificate on file and available for review. .1102(g) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Please review staff and training worksheets and staff files every 30-60 days to ensure all required items are listed, up to date, and available for review in staff files. Please ensure all expired trainings are completed as soon as possible, and certificates are submitted to me along with your compliance letter. Consultation was provided on the following: Please continue ensuring the following: The staff and training worksheets are up to date and every section on the staff and training worksheets are filled out (no blanks). Please put “N/A” if something does not apply to a particular staff member. Please submit an updated staff and training worksheet to me on or before 6/11/25. Teachers are moving around the playground while actively supervising children in their care, and not sitting down the entire time children are outdoors. Monitoring and updating the EPR annually, or whenever changes are made to the plan. Monitoring each classroom attendance throughout the day when conducting walk throughs of the facility to ensure all children in care are listed on the attendance. Reviewing each permission to administer emergency medication document to ensure all the correct information is on the document, the document is filled out in its entirety, and the document is up to date. Please ensure all emergency medications have a medical action plan and the plan is kept with the medication or easily accessible in the case of an emergency. NEW QRIS MODERNIZATION PLAN: The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to Success” is being added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. A pathway for child care programs currently accredited through the approved accrediting bodies may now move to a 3- or 5-star license if they are not already at this star level. Providers need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. Please be reminded any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. DCDEE WEBSITE RESOURCES: -Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 18, 2025, I must receive a 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. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. You may contact me by phone at (704) 594-0049 or by email at brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: BRITTANY ADAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2025 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 264 Time In: 10:06 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Amanda Holder, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 7, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 23, 2025. The last fire inspection was conducted January 31, 2025. Your facility is approved for first shift only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 88% prior to today’s visit. The center's four star rated license, NC Child Care law summary, safe arrival and departure procedures, emergency phone numbers, tobacco restriction, monthly menu, and Emergency Medical Care Plan were prominently posted. The following was monitored during today’s visit: supervision, staff/child ratios, permit restrictions, group size, capacity, adequate and approved space, and hazardous product storage. A walkthrough of the indoor environment was completed. Children were observed engaged in free choice activities, teacher directed activities, caretaking routines, meal time, staff/child interaction, and rest time. Fire drills are being completed monthly as required. Emergency drills are being conducted every three months as required. Incident logs were monitored during today’s visit. Playground inspections are being conducted monthly. No concerns were observed. Materials, toys, and equipment throughout the facility was of sufficient quantity, developmentally appropriate, and in good repair. Medications, Permission to Administer forms, and medical action plans were monitored during today’s visit. All staff files were monitored for criminal background checks, First Aid/CPR, Recognizing and Responding, ITS/SIDS and BSAC during today’s visit. The following violations were documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 11/17/22 did not have a First Aid certificate on file and available for review. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. A staff member hired on 11/17/22 did not have a CPR certificate on file and available for review. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. A staff member hired on 1/1/21 did not have a Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment certificate on file and available for review. .1102(g) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Please review staff and training worksheets and staff files every 30-60 days to ensure all required items are listed, up to date, and available for review in staff files. Please ensure all expired trainings are completed as soon as possible, and certificates are submitted to me along with your compliance letter. Consultation was provided on the following: Please continue ensuring the following: The staff and training worksheets are up to date and every section on the staff and training worksheets are filled out (no blanks). Please put “N/A” if something does not apply to a particular staff member. Please submit an updated staff and training worksheet to me on or before 6/11/25. Teachers are moving around the playground while actively supervising children in their care, and not sitting down the entire time children are outdoors. Monitoring and updating the EPR annually, or whenever changes are made to the plan. Monitoring each classroom attendance throughout the day when conducting walk throughs of the facility to ensure all children in care are listed on the attendance. Reviewing each permission to administer emergency medication document to ensure all the correct information is on the document, the document is filled out in its entirety, and the document is up to date. Please ensure all emergency medications have a medical action plan and the plan is kept with the medication or easily accessible in the case of an emergency. NEW QRIS MODERNIZATION PLAN: The new QRIS Modernization Plan known as “Pathways to Success” is being added to law which included moving to the use of the updated Environmental Rating Scale (ERS-3 versions) for FCCERS, effective February 1, 2025. DCDEE and the NC Child Care Commission will continue the rulemaking process to add the rule language to child care requirements. This process with take several months. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended. Star rated license reassessments are postponed until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. A pathway for child care programs currently accredited through the approved accrediting bodies may now move to a 3- or 5-star license if they are not already at this star level. Providers need to submit a request to their licensing consultant and provide a copy of their accreditation award/certificate for processing: Accreditation Licensure Request Form. Please be reminded any ERS assessment completed on February 1, 2025 and after will be assessed using the ERS-3 versions. DCDEE WEBSITE RESOURCES: -Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. -Child Care Rules and Laws: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Getting-a-License -Training and Professional Development: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development -Required Health and Safety Training: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings -Care for Children Receiving Subsidy: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Providing-Child-Care/Subsidized-Child-Care/Care-for-Children-Receiving-Subsidy -DCDEE Updates, Current Projects, and information applicable to Child Care in NC: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Whats-New ABCMS SYSTEM: The process of notifying the Division of any new child care providers working who are hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement as stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 18, 2025, I must receive a 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. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. You may contact me by phone at (704) 594-0049 or by email at brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: BRITTANY ADAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-362L Visit Date: 5/8/2025 Number Present: 48 Completed Date: 5/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:15 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. You, Caitlin Leepard, assisted me with the visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. The allegations are as follows: There are allegations of violations of child care requirements regarding discipline. I visited each classroom during today’s visit. Children were observed engaging in meal time, routine care taking, and rest time. I spoke with you regarding concerns related to an incident that involved inappropriate discipline practices at the facility on April 29, 2025. You self reported an incident where a teacher in space #2 dragged a three year old child down the hallway by their ankle to another classroom. You stated that this teacher is no longer employed at the facility. You stated that you did not witness this incident and were not present at the facility at the time the incident occurred. You stated you were unable to review camera footage due to cameras being down, however, you were able to interview a classroom teacher in space #1 who witnessed the incident. I interviewed three additional staff members who stated they currently have concerns regarding discipline at the facility. During the interviews I learned that a three-year-old child in space #2 was kicking, flailing their arms, and screaming while a teacher carried the child out of the classroom. At one point the child was on the floor in the hallway near the classroom door and the teacher grabbed the child by their ankle and dragged the child down the hallway to go see another teacher to assist with correcting the child’s behavior. One staff member stated that prior to the child being dragged down the hallway, the child bit another child in the classroom and was placed in timeout and placed on the staff member's lap. While sitting on the staff member’s lap the child was kicking and hitting the staff member while screaming. That is when another teacher took the child from the staff member’s lap and removed the child from the classroom, prior to dragging the child down the hallway. I was able to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff. Therefore, the allegation regarding discipline was substantiated. Due to the substantiation of the allegation of Discipline, an Administrative Action may be issued based on Child Care Rule .2200. The following violation was cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. A teacher in space #2 removed a three year old child from the classroom and dragged them down the hallway of the facility by their ankle, to another classroom. .1803(a)(1) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: It is highly recommended that staff meetings are conducted monthly at this facility, and that administrators conduct a thorough review of appropriate discipline policies this month during a staff meeting. It is highly recommended that administrators conduct a walk through of the facility and classrooms daily to ensure appropriate discipline practices are being conducted in all classrooms. It is highly recommended that administrators conduct coaching monthly in classrooms to ensure classroom teachers are aware of expectations and appropriate discipline practices, and administrators can ensure that children are being cared for in a nurturing manner in the classroom. It is highly recommended that the Owner/Operator reach out to P.U.R.E. Excellence at 336-588-7833 regarding the Conscious Discipline training, to better assist teachers in their classroom with challenging behaviors. Consultation was provided on the following: It was discussed with the administrator that biting is a developmentally appropriate behavior for a child three years of age. Also, when a child does bite another child, an incident report needs to be completed, given to the parent, and placed in the child’s file. Children should be allowed to sit independently when being placed in time out, and not required to sit on a staff member’s lap. If the child is having difficulty sitting independently, another form of appropriate discipline should be utilized. If children are going to be placed in time out, the timeframe for which a child is required to be separated from classroom activities should be developmentally appropriate. One suggestion is using the age of the child to determine how many minutes a child will be placed in time out. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 22, 2025, I must receive a compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be conducted. Please email the information to: brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov You may contact me by phone at (704) 594-0049 or by email at brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: TAMIKA POWELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-294A Visit Date: 3/24/2025 Number Present: 46 Completed Date: 3/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 55 Time In: 11:05 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 this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Caitlin Leepard, administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Leepard and Amanda Holder, administrator. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and/or confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. A staff member pulled a one-year-old child by one arm to redirect the child away from another child. G.S. 110-91(10) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week (03/31/2025), you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at: Tamika Powell, Investigations Consultant 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 (919)715-1013 - fax Tamika.t.powell@dhhs.nc.gov You may contact me at Tamika Powell, Investigations Consultant, (704) 330-9725, Tamika.t.powell@dhhs.nc.gov or Veronica Grant, South Central Investigations Team Supervisor, veronica.grant@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: TONI WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-069L Visit Date: 1/13/2025 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/13/2025 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: 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 is a concerns regarding discipline, nurture and care: You, Caitlin Leepard, Director, assisted me with the visit today. You were given a chance to respond to the allegations. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on October 11,2021, 3 earning points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Fire drills, and storage of hazardous products were also monitored. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. I observed the teachers’ engagement with students in large group activities. I observed children in small group activities, center play, personal care routines, and children eating lunch. Regarding the allegation of nurture and care: I observed the classroom and observed that students are not receiving the quality of nurture and care that is needed in the classroom. I observed that there are students that need more care than others based on the developmental needs, and the extra care is not being displayed in the classroom setting. I observed during my visit, that when a three-year-old student needed assistance with personal hygiene in the bathroom, the teacher stated to me that they do not assist three-year-old children with personal hygiene. I modeled for the teacher how she could walk the child through the process of independently completing his personal hygiene. After doing so the child was successful with completing the task on his own. I interviewed staff and it was stated that children with development and emotional needs were not getting the extra help to accommodate their needs. It was also stated by a teacher that at nap time a child was told he had to sleep and told to lay down and be quite. The child is not a sleeper and will not be quite so the teacher yells at the child for making noise. Based on staff interviews and consultant observation this allegation is substantiated. Regarding the allegations of discipline: I observed the classroom and interviewed nine staff members. During the interviews with staff members, five staff members stated that the classroom teacher is rough when handling the children. Three teachers stated that they witnessed the teacher carrying a student out of the classroom in a harsh manner, by the trunk of their body with their arms and legs dangling in an airplane fashion, for not listening to the teacher. It was also stated that they have witnessed the teacher place the child down harshly in chairs or on the carpet during group time when the child will not sit down. Four teachers stated they have heard the teacher yelling harshly at the children for not following classroom rules. Based on staff interviews this allegation was substantiated. The following violation(s) was observed or cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. A three-year-old child was yelled at and told to lay down and be quiet at nap time. A three-year-old was not assisted with their personal hygiene process. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. Child was handled rough when removed from classroom. Child was handled rough when placed in a chair and on carpet. .1803(a)(1) Consultation: Due to violation #902 nurturing care 904 discipline being cited, an administrative action may be issued. Technical assistance: 1.It was discussed with the administrator that she contact the local Partnership for training for staff on behavior in the classroom and how to handle children with learning disabilities. It was discussed that all staff need to take this class. 2. It was discussed that the discipline policy needs to be reviewed with staff annually. A staff meeting needs to be help and discipline policies need to be discussed. All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature I advise you to be prepared to provide supporting documentation in the form of photos, documents, certificates, etc. should I request them in order to clarify or verify compliance. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Toni Washington Post Office Box 5347 Mooresville, NC 28117 For your convenience, your letter may be sent by email to: toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 27, 2025. Please Note: If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date, you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Compliance History: You are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (704) 437-2549 or by email at toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. or at (704)594-0153. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: TONI WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1224-274L Visit Date: 1/2/2025 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 1/2/2025 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: There is a concerns regarding discipline, nurture and care: You, Caitlin Leepard, Director, assisted me with the visit today. You were given a chance to respond to the allegations. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued on October 11, 2021, 3 earning points in staff education, 6 points in program standards, and 1 quality point. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the outdoor environment were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Fire drills, and storage of hazardous products were also monitored. Additionally, I observed the indoor and outdoor space used by the children. I observed the teachers’ engagement with students in large group activities. I observed children in small group activities, center play, personal care routines, and children eating lunch. Regarding the allegation there are concerns regarding nurture and care: I interviewed all teacher in the facility. During the interviews with staff six (6) staff members reported to the consultant they have witnessed the staff member in question mistreating children. It was observed by four (4) staff members that the teacher is rough when feeding children by forcing them to drink bottles pushing the bottles in the infant month. They have also observed the teacher pushing food in the infant’s mouth in a harsh way. It was also observed by three (3) teachers that the teacher is rough when rocking the infants to sleep during nap times. It was stated that the teacher rocks the cribs in a rough and harsh way when rocking the infant to sleep. It was also observed by teachers that when the teacher has the infants in her arms rocking them to sleep, she does this in a rough and harsh manner that is not comforting to the infants. It was discussed that the teacher roughly feeding the infant and rocking them to sleep in a rough manner was reported to administrative staff. I interviewed the director and assistant director, and it was discussed that the staff member has had a disciplinary write up about providing a safe, and nurturing environment for children in her care. I reviewed that disciplinary write up during my visit today. During my interview I observed a video that was taken of the teacher feeding an infant. I observed in the video the infant was turning his head and crying when being fed by the teacher. I also observed the teacher holding the bottle in the infants mouth when it appeared he was turning away from being fed. From my observation of the video, it appears that the teacher is not feeding the infant in a caring and nurturing way. Based on interviews with the staff, observation of the video, and viewing of the disciplinary write up this allegation is substantiated. Regarding the allegations of discipline : Based on staff interview, observation in all classrooms today by the consultant, and a review of the discipline policy this allegation was not substantiated. The following violation(s) was observed or cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. Teacher was not feeding and caring for infants in a nurturing way. It was observed from a video that the teacher was feeding an infant a bottle in a harsh manner. G.S. 110-91(10) Consultation: Due to violation #902 nurturing care being cited, administrative action may be recommended based upon rule .2200. Technical assistance: 1.It was discussed with the administrator that she contact the local Partnership for training for staff on infant feeding and care classes. It was discussed that all staff need to take this class. 2. It was discussed that the discipline policy needs to be reviewed with staff annually. 3. It was discussed with administrative staff that monitoring the classroom and one on one mentor training may be helpful for the staff. All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature I advise you to be prepared to provide supporting documentation in the form of photos, documents, certificates, etc. should I request them in order to clarify or verify compliance. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Toni Washington Post Office Box 5347 Mooresville, NC 28117 For your convenience, your letter may be sent by email to: toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov I must receive your compliance letter no later than January 16, 2025. Please Note: If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date, you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Compliance History: You are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (704) 437-2549 or by email at toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: BRITTANY ADAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0924-354L Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 11:45 AM Time Out: 04:00 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. You, Caitlin Leepard, assisted me with the visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. I visited each classroom during today’s visit. Children were observed engaging in rest time, free choice activities both indoors and outdoors, care taking routines, and staff/child interactions. I spoke with you and asked if you had any concerns with supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. You stated you did not have any concerns regarding supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding sanitation and health and proper handwashing techniques. All seven staff members stated they do not currently have any concerns regarding sanitation and health and proper hand washing techniques. I was unable to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff and observations during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding sanitation and health was unsubstantiated. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding supervision and all seven staff members stated that they did have concerns regarding supervision based upon staff members throughout the facility using their phones to text, talk or facetime while children are in the classroom. The administrator stated that staff using their phones while children were in care was an issue previously, but thought the issue had been corrected after the staff meeting held in mid August reviewing the cell phone policy and discussing expectations. Although during my visit today I did not see staff using their phones while in the classroom, I did observe them placed next to two staff members while in the classroom. I was able to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding supervision was substantiated. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding nurture and care. Four out of the seven staff members interviewed stated they did have concerns regarding nurture and care. Staff gave five specific examples when children were handled roughly and three specific examples when children were spoken to in a harsh tone. The administrator stated that during the staff meeting held in mid August she discussed the proper tone that should be used in the classroom with the children. I was able to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding nurture and care was substantiated. I did a walk through of the outdoor environment and noticed a storm drain exposed on the playground that proved to be hazardous to children, as the storm drain is accessible and children can fall into the hole. I was able to confirm the allegation based on my observation during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding safe indoor/outdoor environment was substantiated. The following violation(s) was observed during today’s visit Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Eight staff verified phone usage in the classroom while children were present. .1801(a)(1-5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There was an exposed storm drain on the 2-year-old playground that is hazardous and children have access to. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. During four staff interviews specific times were stated when children were not verbally and physically cared for in a nurturing manner. G.S. 110-91(10) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: We discussed conducting another staff meeting to review the violations cited during today’s visit and reviewing the following information and having staff sign and date that this information was reviewed: 1. Cell phone policy 2. Discipline policy 3. Reviewing the proper tone and speech to use with young children We discussed immediately closing off the storm drain in a secure manner, making it inaccessible to children. We discussed administrators doing a walk through of each classroom daily, and conducting monitoring and coaching in each classroom monthly. Consultation was provided on the following: Due to supervision and nurture and care being cited today, an administrative action may be recommended based upon rule .2200. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before October 15, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Adams, Child Care Consultant PO Box 470753 Charlotte, NC 28247 brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov You may contact me by phone at (704) 594-0049 or by email at brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: BRITTANY ADAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0924-354L Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 11:45 AM Time Out: 04:00 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. You, Caitlin Leepard, assisted me with the visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. I visited each classroom during today’s visit. Children were observed engaging in rest time, free choice activities both indoors and outdoors, care taking routines, and staff/child interactions. I spoke with you and asked if you had any concerns with supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. You stated you did not have any concerns regarding supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding sanitation and health and proper handwashing techniques. All seven staff members stated they do not currently have any concerns regarding sanitation and health and proper hand washing techniques. I was unable to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff and observations during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding sanitation and health was unsubstantiated. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding supervision and all seven staff members stated that they did have concerns regarding supervision based upon staff members throughout the facility using their phones to text, talk or facetime while children are in the classroom. The administrator stated that staff using their phones while children were in care was an issue previously, but thought the issue had been corrected after the staff meeting held in mid August reviewing the cell phone policy and discussing expectations. Although during my visit today I did not see staff using their phones while in the classroom, I did observe them placed next to two staff members while in the classroom. I was able to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding supervision was substantiated. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding nurture and care. Four out of the seven staff members interviewed stated they did have concerns regarding nurture and care. Staff gave five specific examples when children were handled roughly and three specific examples when children were spoken to in a harsh tone. The administrator stated that during the staff meeting held in mid August she discussed the proper tone that should be used in the classroom with the children. I was able to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding nurture and care was substantiated. I did a walk through of the outdoor environment and noticed a storm drain exposed on the playground that proved to be hazardous to children, as the storm drain is accessible and children can fall into the hole. I was able to confirm the allegation based on my observation during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding safe indoor/outdoor environment was substantiated. The following violation(s) was observed during today’s visit Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Eight staff verified phone usage in the classroom while children were present. .1801(a)(1-5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There was an exposed storm drain on the 2-year-old playground that is hazardous and children have access to. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. During four staff interviews specific times were stated when children were not verbally and physically cared for in a nurturing manner. G.S. 110-91(10) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: We discussed conducting another staff meeting to review the violations cited during today’s visit and reviewing the following information and having staff sign and date that this information was reviewed: 1. Cell phone policy 2. Discipline policy 3. Reviewing the proper tone and speech to use with young children We discussed immediately closing off the storm drain in a secure manner, making it inaccessible to children. We discussed administrators doing a walk through of each classroom daily, and conducting monitoring and coaching in each classroom monthly. Consultation was provided on the following: Due to supervision and nurture and care being cited today, an administrative action may be recommended based upon rule .2200. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before October 15, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Adams, Child Care Consultant PO Box 470753 Charlotte, NC 28247 brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov You may contact me by phone at (704) 594-0049 or by email at brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: BRITTANY ADAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0924-354L Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 11:45 AM Time Out: 04:00 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. You, Caitlin Leepard, assisted me with the visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions were monitored during today’s visit. The allegations are as follows: There are concerns regarding supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. I visited each classroom during today’s visit. Children were observed engaging in rest time, free choice activities both indoors and outdoors, care taking routines, and staff/child interactions. I spoke with you and asked if you had any concerns with supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. You stated you did not have any concerns regarding supervision, nurture and care, safe indoor/outdoor environment, and sanitation and health. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding sanitation and health and proper handwashing techniques. All seven staff members stated they do not currently have any concerns regarding sanitation and health and proper hand washing techniques. I was unable to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff and observations during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding sanitation and health was unsubstantiated. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding supervision and all seven staff members stated that they did have concerns regarding supervision based upon staff members throughout the facility using their phones to text, talk or facetime while children are in the classroom. The administrator stated that staff using their phones while children were in care was an issue previously, but thought the issue had been corrected after the staff meeting held in mid August reviewing the cell phone policy and discussing expectations. Although during my visit today I did not see staff using their phones while in the classroom, I did observe them placed next to two staff members while in the classroom. I was able to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding supervision was substantiated. I interviewed seven staff members and asked did they have any concerns regarding nurture and care. Four out of the seven staff members interviewed stated they did have concerns regarding nurture and care. Staff gave five specific examples when children were handled roughly and three specific examples when children were spoken to in a harsh tone. The administrator stated that during the staff meeting held in mid August she discussed the proper tone that should be used in the classroom with the children. I was able to confirm the allegation based on information received from interviewed staff during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding nurture and care was substantiated. I did a walk through of the outdoor environment and noticed a storm drain exposed on the playground that proved to be hazardous to children, as the storm drain is accessible and children can fall into the hole. I was able to confirm the allegation based on my observation during today’s visit. Therefore, the allegation regarding safe indoor/outdoor environment was substantiated. The following violation(s) was observed during today’s visit Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Eight staff verified phone usage in the classroom while children were present. .1801(a)(1-5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There was an exposed storm drain on the 2-year-old playground that is hazardous and children have access to. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. During four staff interviews specific times were stated when children were not verbally and physically cared for in a nurturing manner. G.S. 110-91(10) Technical Assistance was provided on the following: We discussed conducting another staff meeting to review the violations cited during today’s visit and reviewing the following information and having staff sign and date that this information was reviewed: 1. Cell phone policy 2. Discipline policy 3. Reviewing the proper tone and speech to use with young children We discussed immediately closing off the storm drain in a secure manner, making it inaccessible to children. We discussed administrators doing a walk through of each classroom daily, and conducting monitoring and coaching in each classroom monthly. Consultation was provided on the following: Due to supervision and nurture and care being cited today, an administrative action may be recommended based upon rule .2200. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before October 15, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Adams, Child Care Consultant PO Box 470753 Charlotte, NC 28247 brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov You may contact me by phone at (704) 594-0049 or by email at brittany.j.adams@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. Thank you for your time today. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: TONI WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/9/2023 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 11/9/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this visit today is to monitor applicable rules. You, Caitlin Leepard, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 29, 2022. The compliance history prior to today’s visit was 88%. I monitored regulatory prior to today’s visit and Caitlin Leepard is listed as the administrator. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers during today’s visit. The Four-Star License, Safe Procedures for arrival and departure, NC Child Care Summary, Emergency Care Plan, Emergency Drill Record, First Aid information, tobacco free facility signage, and current menu were posted as required. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed enhance staff-child ratio maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space use and permit restrictions maintained during today’s visit. I observed the children during free choice activities indoors, handwashing routines, and lunch was observed which consisted of hot dogs, tater tots, peaches, peas & carrots, and milk. I observed activates areas including blocks, dramatic play, art, science, music, writing, writing area, and cozy/ quiet areas. I observed toys and equipment that was developmentally appropriate. I observed that activity plans to be current and posted in all classrooms. I monitored all diaper creams in 5 different classrooms. Five of the permission to administer forms need to be completed with the amount to administer. The director corrected the forms. I monitored 3 emergency medications, and they were in compliance. I monitored the vans that are in operation for picking the school age students up from school. I monitored the daily transportation roster, child applications forms, staff and children emergency information, vehicle inspection, vehicle insurance, vehicle registration, first-aid kit and fire extinguisher all were in compliance. I monitored the outdoor learning environment (OLE). We observed a variety of toys available for the children on playgrounds 2and 3. I observed one large stationary piece of equipment with slides and climbing. On two playgrounds mulch needs to be added. Your most resent outdoor playground inspection was completed on October 23, 2023. I observed your most resent fire drill was conducted on October 30, 2023. I observed your monthly fire drill documentations was for the past twelve months. I observed your quarterly emergency drills documentation for the last twelve months. I observed your last Lock-down drill was conducted on September 29, 2023. I observed your last sanitation inspection was dated October 26,2023 with a Superior rating and 12 demerits. I observed your last fire inspection was dated February 20, 2023. I observed that your incident log was current and up to date. I monitored staff files, children files, and program files during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during the visit, Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. In the toddlers classrooms there was not a sufficient quantity of toys for children. .0510(e)(3) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Walls in all classroom need to be cleaned and or painted. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Some playground toys were not in good repair and all toys need to be washed. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. 5 diaper creams forms did not have the amount of cream to be applied. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 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. 3 employees did not have the emergency information form on file before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. On the school age playground and the older preschool playground the surfacing was not critical height of equipment. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff member that started 10/30/23 has not completed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Technical Assistance: 1. Shaken Baby Head Trauma policy should be completed with new staff on the first day of hire. Director should go over the policy with staff as part of first day policy. 2. Staff should complete the required number of training hours every year as required. Talking with the administrator it was suggested a board be placed in the office with all staff required hours and how many they have completed to keep staff on task. 3.Playground inspections are to be done monthly. If was discussed with the administrator that the playground checks be discussed and all repairs completed as they occur. 4. As discussed with the administrator all staff will completed staff health questionnaires and emergency information at the same time each year and for new employee's on the first day. All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature I advise you to be prepared to provide supporting documentation in the form of photos, documents, certificates, etc. should I request them in order to clarify or verify compliance. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Toni Washington Post Office Box 5347 Mooresville, NC 28117 For your convenience, your letter may be sent by email to: toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov I must receive your compliance letter no later than November 23, 2023. Please Note: If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date, you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Compliance History: You are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for having your Staff & Training Worksheet complete and available for review prior to today’s visit. The most up to date Staff & Training Worksheet form is available on the DCDEE website under the Provider tab and “Provider Documents and Forms”. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (704) 437-2549 or by email at toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. or at (704)594-0153. 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: FIRSTSTART KIDS ACADEMY Facility ID: 13000578 Consultant: TONI WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/9/2023 Number Present: 57 Completed Date: 11/9/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this visit today is to monitor applicable rules. You, Caitlin Leepard, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on November 29, 2022. The compliance history prior to today’s visit was 88%. I monitored regulatory prior to today’s visit and Caitlin Leepard is listed as the administrator. I used the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers during today’s visit. The Four-Star License, Safe Procedures for arrival and departure, NC Child Care Summary, Emergency Care Plan, Emergency Drill Record, First Aid information, tobacco free facility signage, and current menu were posted as required. I observed children adequately supervised during today’s visit. I observed enhance staff-child ratio maintained during today’s visit. I observed adequate approved space use and permit restrictions maintained during today’s visit. I observed the children during free choice activities indoors, handwashing routines, and lunch was observed which consisted of hot dogs, tater tots, peaches, peas & carrots, and milk. I observed activates areas including blocks, dramatic play, art, science, music, writing, writing area, and cozy/ quiet areas. I observed toys and equipment that was developmentally appropriate. I observed that activity plans to be current and posted in all classrooms. I monitored all diaper creams in 5 different classrooms. Five of the permission to administer forms need to be completed with the amount to administer. The director corrected the forms. I monitored 3 emergency medications, and they were in compliance. I monitored the vans that are in operation for picking the school age students up from school. I monitored the daily transportation roster, child applications forms, staff and children emergency information, vehicle inspection, vehicle insurance, vehicle registration, first-aid kit and fire extinguisher all were in compliance. I monitored the outdoor learning environment (OLE). We observed a variety of toys available for the children on playgrounds 2and 3. I observed one large stationary piece of equipment with slides and climbing. On two playgrounds mulch needs to be added. Your most resent outdoor playground inspection was completed on October 23, 2023. I observed your most resent fire drill was conducted on October 30, 2023. I observed your monthly fire drill documentations was for the past twelve months. I observed your quarterly emergency drills documentation for the last twelve months. I observed your last Lock-down drill was conducted on September 29, 2023. I observed your last sanitation inspection was dated October 26,2023 with a Superior rating and 12 demerits. I observed your last fire inspection was dated February 20, 2023. I observed that your incident log was current and up to date. I monitored staff files, children files, and program files during today’s visit. The following violations were observed and cited during the visit, Violation Number Comment Rule 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. In the toddlers classrooms there was not a sufficient quantity of toys for children. .0510(e)(3) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Walls in all classroom need to be cleaned and or painted. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Some playground toys were not in good repair and all toys need to be washed. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. 5 diaper creams forms did not have the amount of cream to be applied. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 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. 3 employees did not have the emergency information form on file before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. On the school age playground and the older preschool playground the surfacing was not critical height of equipment. .0605(k)(1-4) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff member that started 10/30/23 has not completed the Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Technical Assistance: 1. Shaken Baby Head Trauma policy should be completed with new staff on the first day of hire. Director should go over the policy with staff as part of first day policy. 2. Staff should complete the required number of training hours every year as required. Talking with the administrator it was suggested a board be placed in the office with all staff required hours and how many they have completed to keep staff on task. 3.Playground inspections are to be done monthly. If was discussed with the administrator that the playground checks be discussed and all repairs completed as they occur. 4. As discussed with the administrator all staff will completed staff health questionnaires and emergency information at the same time each year and for new employee's on the first day. All violations cited must be corrected immediately. Please submit a written, signed, and dated statement to me at the email/address below detailing the steps taken to correct each violation. Your letter must include the following: 1. The name of your center 2. The center’s ID number 3. The date you write the letter 4. Address each violation stating how you corrected the violation and are now in compliance. 5. Address your plan to ensure that you will not have that violation again. 6. Your signature I advise you to be prepared to provide supporting documentation in the form of photos, documents, certificates, etc. should I request them in order to clarify or verify compliance. Your letter may be mailed to me at: Toni Washington Post Office Box 5347 Mooresville, NC 28117 For your convenience, your letter may be sent by email to: toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov I must receive your compliance letter no later than November 23, 2023. Please Note: If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. If you cannot meet the requirements by this date, you shall contact me with a timeline of the corrections. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Compliance History: You are required to maintain compliance with all applicable child care rules and regulations at all times. North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(d) requires all child care facilities to maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Failure to do so may result in the issuance of a provisional license or other administrative action against the facility's license. Any violations cited during a visit may affect your score. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website to get the latest information for child care settings and child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for having your Staff & Training Worksheet complete and available for review prior to today’s visit. The most up to date Staff & Training Worksheet form is available on the DCDEE website under the Provider tab and “Provider Documents and Forms”. Thank you for your time today. We appreciate all you are doing to serve the children and families of NC. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by phone at (704) 437-2549 or by email at toni.washington@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor, Erin Pickard, by email at erin.pickard@dhhs.nc.gov. or at (704)594-0153. 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